In the latest addition to Mo Willems’ beloved Pigeon series, The Pigeon HAS to Go to School!, readers are once again treated to the dramatic flair and humorous antics of the Pigeon, a character who has captivated the hearts of children and adults alike. This installment taps into the common childhood fear of the first day of school, presenting it through the unique perspective of the Pigeon, who is both hilariously melodramatic and endearingly relatable.

The book begins with the Pigeon throwing a tantrum about the injustice of having to attend school, deploying a barrage of questions and worries: What if he doesn’t like it? What if the teacher doesn’t like him? What if he learns too much? Willems has a knack for tapping into the stream-of-consciousness style that mirrors young children’s thought processes, making the Pigeon’s anxiety both understandable and humorous.

Willems’ illustrations are delightfully simple yet expressive, perfectly capturing the Pigeon’s ever-changing moods and bringing the character’s larger-than-life personality to the forefront. The use of soft pastel backgrounds contrasts sharply with the bold, black outlines and bright colors of the Pigeon, drawing readers’ eyes directly to the protagonist’s expressive antics.

As with other books in the series, the humor in The Pigeon HAS to Go to School! serves a dual purpose: it entertains while also diminishing the fears associated with the unknown elements of school. Willems masterfully addresses common worries through the Pigeon’s exaggerated reactions, allowing children to see their own fears reflected and then assuaged as the Pigeon comes to realize that school might not be so bad after all.

One of the standout elements of this book is its ability to engage with its audience. Willems often breaks the ‘fourth wall,’ inviting readers to interact with the Pigeon, making it an excellent read-aloud choice for parents and teachers. This interaction is not just for entertainment; it empowers young readers, making them feel heard and understood as they reassure and counsel the Pigeon, thus building their own confidence about school.

The Pigeon HAS to Go to School! is an excellent addition to any child’s library, particularly for those preparing for their own first day of school. Mo Willems continues to enchant with his ability to blend humor, empathy, and learning into his stories. This book is not only a fun read but a comforting balm for the anxious hearts of soon-to-be students everywhere.

Overall, Mo Willems delivers another classic that speaks directly to kids’ experiences with school anxiety, while providing laughs and reassurances that help ease the transition into educational settings. A must-read for children and a helper for any adult handling the jitters of a nervous child.