In this rhythmic, rhyming tale—set to the tune of "Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush"—it is the first day of school and little pig is scared. Although he tries building a tower and playing at the water table, he can't quite get the hang of it and ends up making messes.

When the other pigs go outside to play tag, he hides inside a mulberry bush. There he finds another little pig hiding also. The two become fast friends, making the last half of the day more enjoyable than the first. By story's end, little pig declares, "My first day has made me one happy guy."

Hillenbrand's cartoon-like, mixed-media illustrations capture perfectly the initial scariness of school from the little pig's perspective as well as the excitement and fun as the day progresses.

The bright, colorful spreads are filled with action and humorous touches.

Classroom Use: An excellent choice for a reassuring, first-day read aloud.

Reviewed by the teachers at Education Oasis.