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The What-If Kid: First Day of School
This story is about a young boy who is struggling with his anxiety and all of the worries that come with any life change. With new teachers, new friends and a new routine, Kale is feeling scared and alone. Through the kindness of others he learns to accept and eventually enjoy his new school, his new teacher and even makes a new friend. Way to go, Kale!
30 pages, Paperback
Published December 9, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
October 16, 2024
Loved the book.. so relatable for young kids these days. All the anxieties of starting new things and growing up. A must read!
November 7, 2024
This was such a good read for me and my family. My oldest has a case if the “what ifs” and this book was a good way to talk about it and through out. We read this book at least once a day!
October 11, 2024
“The What-If Kid: First Day of School” written and illustrated by incredible author Nicole Drinkwater is an amazing picture book about Kale. He has worries that children can identify with, such as being late for school, not finding a friend, concerns about falling at recess and so much more.
It also discusses that worries are ok and we can have great discussions using this book. I highly recommend this amazing picture book for home libraries and reading aloud at school. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It also discusses that worries are ok and we can have great discussions using this book. I highly recommend this amazing picture book for home libraries and reading aloud at school. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 15, 2024
The What-If Kid tells the story of Kale, a young boy whose wild imagination often spirals into anxiety and worry. We follow Kale on his nerve-wracking first day of school, where “what ifs” about the bus, getting lost, and making friends swarm his mind. With the help of his patient mother, an encouraging teacher, and a kind playground friend, Kale learns that new experiences aren’t so scary after all.
The writing is simple and rhyming, which makes it feel sing-songy and fun to read out loud. The rhymes do a great job of mimicking the pace of anxious thoughts, racing along in rhythm like Kale’s worries. There are some lines that really made me smile, like when Kale nervously wonders if the bus will fall apart or whether he will get lost in the sea of kids. The playful language will likely resonate with kids who can relate to Kale’s big feelings.
I loved how the book handled the theme of anxiety in a gentle and reassuring way. Kale’s mom, Ms. Martin, and even a friendly girl named Miley all chip in to soothe his fears, making it a story that highlights the power of kindness. Miley's part, in particular, was a heartwarmer. She doesn’t just cheer Kale up but offers to guide him gently, a touch that will surely comfort kids who need a helping hand. This part stood out to me because it shows that support doesn’t have to be grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s just a kid-to-kid moment that makes a difference.
The illustrations are vibrant and full of expression, giving life to Kale’s worries. I found myself chuckling at how exaggerated some of his imagined fears are. The images add humor to what could be a heavy topic, lightening the mood and making the story more approachable.
The What-If Kid: First Day of School is a heartfelt and charming picture book for any child who has ever been nervous about something new. It’s especially perfect for young readers about to start school or try a new activity. Parents and teachers will find it a helpful tool for starting conversations about feelings and worries.
The writing is simple and rhyming, which makes it feel sing-songy and fun to read out loud. The rhymes do a great job of mimicking the pace of anxious thoughts, racing along in rhythm like Kale’s worries. There are some lines that really made me smile, like when Kale nervously wonders if the bus will fall apart or whether he will get lost in the sea of kids. The playful language will likely resonate with kids who can relate to Kale’s big feelings.
I loved how the book handled the theme of anxiety in a gentle and reassuring way. Kale’s mom, Ms. Martin, and even a friendly girl named Miley all chip in to soothe his fears, making it a story that highlights the power of kindness. Miley's part, in particular, was a heartwarmer. She doesn’t just cheer Kale up but offers to guide him gently, a touch that will surely comfort kids who need a helping hand. This part stood out to me because it shows that support doesn’t have to be grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s just a kid-to-kid moment that makes a difference.
The illustrations are vibrant and full of expression, giving life to Kale’s worries. I found myself chuckling at how exaggerated some of his imagined fears are. The images add humor to what could be a heavy topic, lightening the mood and making the story more approachable.
The What-If Kid: First Day of School is a heartfelt and charming picture book for any child who has ever been nervous about something new. It’s especially perfect for young readers about to start school or try a new activity. Parents and teachers will find it a helpful tool for starting conversations about feelings and worries.
January 17, 2025
This book was such a touching and relatable read for my family. The What-If Kid: First Day of School follows Kale, a young boy dealing with all the nerves and uncertainty that come with starting at a new school. As a parent, I could see so much of my own child's experiences reflected in Kale's story. His worries about new teachers, unfamiliar routines, and making friends felt so genuine and real.
What stood out to me most was how well Nicole Drinkwater captured the emotional rollercoaster kids face during big life changes. Kale's anxiety and self-doubt were written in a way that really resonated, but what I loved most was how the book showed that he wasn't alone. Through small acts of kindness-a caring teacher and a classmate reaching out-Kale slowly began to find his footing, and it was heartwarming to see him start to enjoy his new environment. The message of the story is powerful yet simple: it's okay to feel scared or overwhelmed, and things often get better with time and the support of others. I also appreciated how the book emphasizes kindness and connection, which are so important for kids to understand.
The illustrations are bright and engaging, and my child loved pointing out the details while we read. They also really brought Kale's emotions to life, making it easy for young readers to see what he was feeling. This is a wonderful book for any child who might be nervous about starting something new, especially school. It opened up a great conversation with my child about their own feelings, and it offered reassurance that they aren't alone in their worries. I highly recommend The What-If Kid: First Day of School for both kids and parents-it's heartfelt, meaningful, and a joy to read together
What stood out to me most was how well Nicole Drinkwater captured the emotional rollercoaster kids face during big life changes. Kale's anxiety and self-doubt were written in a way that really resonated, but what I loved most was how the book showed that he wasn't alone. Through small acts of kindness-a caring teacher and a classmate reaching out-Kale slowly began to find his footing, and it was heartwarming to see him start to enjoy his new environment. The message of the story is powerful yet simple: it's okay to feel scared or overwhelmed, and things often get better with time and the support of others. I also appreciated how the book emphasizes kindness and connection, which are so important for kids to understand.
The illustrations are bright and engaging, and my child loved pointing out the details while we read. They also really brought Kale's emotions to life, making it easy for young readers to see what he was feeling. This is a wonderful book for any child who might be nervous about starting something new, especially school. It opened up a great conversation with my child about their own feelings, and it offered reassurance that they aren't alone in their worries. I highly recommend The What-If Kid: First Day of School for both kids and parents-it's heartfelt, meaningful, and a joy to read together
January 7, 2025
Drinkwater’s debut in The What-If Kid series cleverly captures the tender vulnerability of childhood anxieties through Kale, a young boy whose imagination is as big as his worries. Facing new teachers, new friends, and a new routine, Kale is overwhelmed by the “what-ifs” that come with life changes. Will he survive his first day of school? Will he make a new friend and enjoy his new life, or will his fears hold him back?
Through her rhythmic, rhyming prose, Drinkwater gently navigates Kale’s whirlwind of “what-ifs,” reflecting universal fears of the unknown. His vivid imagination transforms everyday moments—like a torn bus seat or towering playground bars—into tangible worries, making his experiences deeply relatable and heartfelt. Mama’s steady reassurance anchors the story. Ms. Martin, firm yet nurturing, provides structure, while Miley’s cheerful, adventurous spirit helps Kale see that fear is something we can face with friends by our side.
Themes of resilience and friendship flow naturally, offering young readers comfort and a reminder that worry is a normal part of growing up. Kale’s transformation from fear to confidence feels both earned and uplifting. A fun tale that not only entertains but also equips readers with tools for navigating their own “what-ifs,” making it an invaluable resource for children and their caregivers.
Through her rhythmic, rhyming prose, Drinkwater gently navigates Kale’s whirlwind of “what-ifs,” reflecting universal fears of the unknown. His vivid imagination transforms everyday moments—like a torn bus seat or towering playground bars—into tangible worries, making his experiences deeply relatable and heartfelt. Mama’s steady reassurance anchors the story. Ms. Martin, firm yet nurturing, provides structure, while Miley’s cheerful, adventurous spirit helps Kale see that fear is something we can face with friends by our side.
Themes of resilience and friendship flow naturally, offering young readers comfort and a reminder that worry is a normal part of growing up. Kale’s transformation from fear to confidence feels both earned and uplifting. A fun tale that not only entertains but also equips readers with tools for navigating their own “what-ifs,” making it an invaluable resource for children and their caregivers.
March 22, 2024
Book: The What-If Kid: First Day of School
Author: Nicole Drinkwater
Review: “The What-If Kid: First Day of School” is a heartfelt story following a young boy navigating the challenges of anxiety amid significant life changes. As he grapples with the anxieties associated with a new school, teachers, and friends, Kale’s journey is a relatable exploration of resilience and the transformative power of kindness.
Immersed in Kale’s emotional rollercoaster, I found myself empathizing with his struggles. The author skillfully weaves a narrative that captures the raw emotions of fear and loneliness, creating a connection between the reader and Kale’s journey. The pacing is engaging, and the character development resonates, making the book an emotionally rewarding read.
It is a poignant tale that beautifully illustrates the impact of compassion and understanding in overcoming personal challenges. The relatable themes make it an excellent choice for readers of all ages, fostering empathy and promoting a positive message. I highly recommend this book for its powerful storytelling, meaningful lessons, and the uplifting journey that leaves a lasting impression.
Author: Nicole Drinkwater
Review: “The What-If Kid: First Day of School” is a heartfelt story following a young boy navigating the challenges of anxiety amid significant life changes. As he grapples with the anxieties associated with a new school, teachers, and friends, Kale’s journey is a relatable exploration of resilience and the transformative power of kindness.
Immersed in Kale’s emotional rollercoaster, I found myself empathizing with his struggles. The author skillfully weaves a narrative that captures the raw emotions of fear and loneliness, creating a connection between the reader and Kale’s journey. The pacing is engaging, and the character development resonates, making the book an emotionally rewarding read.
It is a poignant tale that beautifully illustrates the impact of compassion and understanding in overcoming personal challenges. The relatable themes make it an excellent choice for readers of all ages, fostering empathy and promoting a positive message. I highly recommend this book for its powerful storytelling, meaningful lessons, and the uplifting journey that leaves a lasting impression.
March 11, 2024
The story follows Kale, a young boy battling anxiety on his first day of school. Navigating the challenges of new teachers, unfamiliar faces, and a different routine, Kale feels the weight of fear and loneliness. However, the narrative beautifully unfolds as kindness from others helps him embrace and eventually relish his new school experience.
Author Nicole Drinkwater With a keen understanding of childhood struggles, Nicole Drinkwater skillfully weaves a heartwarming tale that resonates with readers of all ages. Her empathetic storytelling shines a light on the importance of compassion and acceptance in overcoming challenges.
Overall"The What-If Kid" is a touching journey of resilience, friendship, and self-discovery. It's a must-read for anyone facing new beginnings or navigating the complexities of change. Cheers to Kale's triumph and Nicole Drinkwater's skillful storytelling!
Author Nicole Drinkwater With a keen understanding of childhood struggles, Nicole Drinkwater skillfully weaves a heartwarming tale that resonates with readers of all ages. Her empathetic storytelling shines a light on the importance of compassion and acceptance in overcoming challenges.
Overall"The What-If Kid" is a touching journey of resilience, friendship, and self-discovery. It's a must-read for anyone facing new beginnings or navigating the complexities of change. Cheers to Kale's triumph and Nicole Drinkwater's skillful storytelling!
March 10, 2025
The “what-ifs” that come with childhood are so real, and this story captures those insecurities perfectly. This beautifully written and illustrated rhyming book follows the journey of Kale, a young boy whose mind is filled with endless questions and worries. With his first day of school approaching, Kale's "what-ifs" are stronger than ever, and Mama is constantly reassuring him that everything will be just fine. But will it? Join Kale on his big day and discover how he navigates his nerves and what surprising outcome awaits him after a very eventful first day of school. A heartwarming and relatable read for all children facing new experiences!
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews