Back to School, Backpack!

A backpack deals with first-day-of-school nerves and feeling out of place, filled with crowded hallways, lonely cafeteria tables, toilet stalls, and existential angst.

Format: Hardback
Length: 40 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2023
Publisher: Little, Brown & Company

In this delightful and heartwarming back-to-school picture book, a backpack embarks on a journey of first-day-of-school jitters and feelings of alienation. Laden with bustling hallways, solitary cafeteria tables, toilet stalls, and the signature existential angst of Simon Rich, this engaging read-aloud will have children embracing classrooms with a cheerful smile (and perhaps even treating their trusty backpacks with greater care).

The backpack, filled with anticipation and a touch of nervousness, sets off on its first day of school. As it navigates through crowded hallways, it can't help but feel a sense of overwhelm and isolation. The cafeteria tables are filled with unfamiliar faces, and the toilet stalls seem like mysterious portals to unknown realms. The backpack, with its trusty contents, is a constant companion, offering comfort and a sense of security amidst the chaos.

Throughout the day, the backpack witnesses a range of emotions and experiences. It sees students rushing to their classes, their faces filled with excitement and curiosity. It overhears conversations, laughter, and the occasional whispered secret. The backpack even has a chance encounter with a friendly teacher, who offers words of encouragement and a warm smile.

As the school day comes to a close, the backpack reflects on its journey. It realizes that the first day of school is just the beginning of a new chapter in its life. It knows that it will face challenges and obstacles along the way, but it is ready to embrace them with resilience and determination. With a renewed sense of confidence, the backpack sets off for home, ready to face whatever the next day brings.

This delightful picture book serves as a reminder that even in the midst of unfamiliarity and uncertainty, there is always a sense of belonging and joy to be found. It encourages children to embrace new experiences, step out of their comfort zones, and cherish the moments that make life worth living. Whether they are starting school for the first time or embarking on a new chapter in their education, this book will provide a source of inspiration and reassurance.

Weight: 456g
Dimension: 261 x 261 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780316628341