George Hogglesberry: Grade School Alien by Sarah Wilson, and Illustrator Chad Cameron is a wonderful story! It opens up the opportunity to talk to your children about things you might not realize are bothering them. I think it's also a good way to reassure them that everyone has fears and that's ok too.
The first page of the story says “Before George Hogglesberry went into his new class he put a nose on his face. Everyone else had a nose. George wanted one too.” It lets you know right off the bat that George is different and going to a new school and he’s very nervous. We’ve all experienced the fear of new places and new people. You can relate to the story from the first page whether you’re 35 or five.
As the story goes on you can sense poor little George’s struggle and worries. He is trying to hard to be a asset to his new class, but he’s so different it’s very difficult. In the end with the help of his class and teacher he finds his way.
I asked my children when we read this book all together what they thought the message of this book is. “What does this story tell you?” I asked. My five year old told me that he got the message that even the school is scary that he just needs to be himself and it will be ok. This from a brand new kindergartener who was going through his very own case of nerves over his first week of school.
My daughter responded that she got the message of acceptance from the book. To accept those who are different and to help them feel at ease in their surroundings so they can be “themselves”.
I saw both messages in the colorful and wonderfully illustrated book George Hogglesberry Grade School Alien. I found it to be a delight to read to my children and they found it a delightful story to listen to. I think it is a wonderful book for kids who are changing schools to have! That's a really frightening transition and this book could be very helpful.
I highly recommend this book!
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