Get Ready for Second Grade, Amber Brown by Paula Danziger

Bibliography
Danziger, Paula. 2002. Get Ready for Second Grade, Amber Brown. ill. Tony Ross. New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons.

Plot Summary
Amber Brown is starting 2nd grade and is a little nervous about it. She is nervous for a number of reasons but mostly because the school hired a new 2nd grade teacher. No one knows anything about her and they are all imagining the worst...how much homework will they have, will they get into trouble for coloring outside the lines, and will they be allowed to go to the bathroom? In the end, Amber decides that she can handle anything as long as she has her best friend, Justin, and her bear backpack.

Critical Analysis
Paula Danziger does it again! Get Ready for Second Grade, Amber Brown is the 3rd installment of the A is for Amber series. Danziger created a fun and very likable character that kids will love to read more about. Amber is nervous about starting second grade because Mrs. Wilson is no longer the teacher. No one knows anything about the new teacher, Ms. Light, and Amber wonders if she will be liked by her. She also wonders what mean things Hannah Burton will be up to this year. The author provides the security that every 2nd grader needs to start a new school year...new school supplies, new backpack, and her best friend, Justin, to get her through the first day of a new school year.

Kids and Adults will love how Amber handles herself. She is determined not to let anything or anyone ruin the day or year for her. She shows confidence by standing up for herself and answering questions posed by the teacher. This is a great book to share with anyone nervous about starting school!

Reviews
Children's Literature: "Danziger manages to keep the story moving at a good clip, build a bit of suspense, throw in a few groaners and end it all with a light touch."

School Library Journal: "Youngsters will identify with Amber and her woes, and will want to listen again and again. A useful purchase for primary grade beginning reader collections in school and public libraries."