Pa Lia's First Day: A Jackson Friends Book

She doesn't know anyone. She can't find her second-grade classroom. And then she gets the only person who's been nice to her into trouble.

Her older brother was supposed to walk her to the door, but he runs off and leaves her behind on the crowded playground. When she trips on the steep steps, a classmate named Calliope James kindly helps her up and guides her to room 201.

Hoping to make friends, Pa Lia passes funny drawings of little mice during math. Instead of staying quiet, Calliope and her best friend Howie burst out laughing, bringing their tall teacher right to their desks. Will Pa Lia ever fit in?

In this first chapter book of the Jackson Friends series, Michelle Edwards explores with humor and sensitivity the anxieties children often face in a new situation.

• School Drama: Second grade brings instant friction, from climbing the crowded stairs to dodging Matthew "Stinky" Stern, the enemy of room 201.
• School Story: Meeting desk-mate Howardina Geraldina Paulina Maxina Gardenia Smith proves daunting until a surprise cookie hints at an unexpected bond.
• Childhood Fears: Between a stomach fluttering with butterflies and the towering presence of Mrs. Fennessey, Pa Lia worries whether she will ever feel comfortable in room 201.
• Unexpected Kindness: A warm dimpled smile and a shared treat show Pa Lia that friendly faces can appear when least expected.
• Also by This Author: Stinky Stern Forever.