book cover

Lulu’s First Day

by Anna McQuinn, illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw

Interest age: 3 to 5

Published by Alanna Max, 2019

  • Picture books

About this book

Lulu is very excited to be starting preschool – she’s already visited, so she knows what to expect, and she’s also picked out her outfit.

When she arrives at the start of the big day itself, Mum stays for a cup of tea while Lulu gets acclimatised. Lulu chooses what she wants to do. Does she want to play with the sand? Paint a picture? In the end, Lulu chooses to read a book with Julie in the special reading tent. It’s such a fun day, even when Mum leaves her in Miss Suzan’s kind and capable care. And at the end of the day, it’s time for a snack when Lulu gets home… And maybe a little nap under her favourite blanket.

The Lulu series is a fantastic one which follows a little girl through all the milestones and occupations of the early years: getting a pet, going swimming and going to the library, among many more. This time, starting nursery or school is the focus: the neutral use of “pre-school” means that it could apply to children in either scenario.

Lulu’s overall positive experience is a gentle read, and even though there’s a little anxiety when Mum leaves, Lulu has her favourite cuddly toy with her, which gives her comfort. 

About the author

Anna McQuinn has worked in children's books for more than thirty years as an editor, publisher, and a writer. She has a deep and abiding interest in child development in the early years, and her writing is informed by her many years working as a Sure Start community librarian.
Anna has written over 50 books for young children, most well known for her Lulu and Zeki series.
She lives in the wilds of the Kerry coast in Ireland with her partner and a small black cat.

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