Teacher and social media influencer Ahiyya tunes into her upbeat, proactively compassionate vibe in this story of an introverted kindergartner tenderly guided through an uncertain first day by a teacher devoted to the power of kindness. When "quiet" student Leo, portrayed with light brown skin, is greeted by his Black-cued teacher Ms. Perry, who asks if he's ready for his first day, he whispers, "I'm not sure." But Ms. Perry reassures him and introduces him to a new friend before inviting the entire class to join in creating a Kindness Pledge, writing down the things they'll do to "make our kindergarten classroom a KINDergarten." Though Leo's reserve continues, the class garners a sizable list by the end of the day, including some entries that take Leo by surprise--and make him feel more confident about coming back for day two, just as he is. A diverse class of children engages in lively discussions as they tour the school, head outdoors for recess, and draw pictures in Chou's energetic scenes, digitally painted in vivid hues. A Kindness Pledge poster and author's note are included. Ages 4--8. (June)

While shy Leo wants no part of sharing ways to be kind aloud with his new kindergarten class, that doesn't mean he isn't kind. Leo enjoys quiet activities and time with his extended family, so it's only natural that he's nervous about starting school. Luckily, Leo has the perfect teacher. Not only does she greet Leo personally and offer to help him get through his nervousness, but she also sets him up with new friends who also prefer quiet activities. Still, Leo, who wears a zipped-up jacket with the hood up, attempts to blend in and hopes Ms. Perry won't call on him to contribute ideas to the Kindness Pledge the class is working on. But Leo and his kindness are certainly not invisible to his new classmates, who specifically call out the many ways he has been kind during the day. Suddenly, Leo feels ready for this new adventure called kindergarten, and his now-unzipped jacket and bare head reflect that confidence. The digitally painted illustrations are full of bright colors and familiar school scenes. An author's note describes how to use the Kindness Pledge in classrooms, when it may be especially helpful, and reminds readers that it's also important to be kind to yourself. Leo, his family, and Ms. Perry are brown-skinned, and Leo's classmates are racially diverse. (This book was reviewed digitally.) Will help alleviate fears and start kids thinking about ways to create their own KINDergartens. (Kindness Pledge poster) (Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

PreS-K--Leo, who likes to be quiet, is worried about starting kindergarten. He's learned that on his first day of school he will have to talk to the entire class about being kind. For the next few weeks before school begins, he shares his concerns with his dad, his grandmommy, and even Tulip, his cat. When school begins, Ms. Perry, his teacher, eases his worries by introducing him to students who like the quiet activities he does, such as playing with chalk and blocks. Although he still feels his heart racing, Leo is able to contribute to a kindness pledge his class makes together. Readers will see easy, common activities (words and actions) they can mimic not only on their first day of school, but throughout the year and in different settings. Behaviors include saying "please" and "thank you," helping others, cleaning up, and saying, "I'm sorry." Cheerful illustrations depict a fun, interactive learning environment that will give children a sneak peek of what to expect from school. VERDICT This would be a wonderful book to read aloud on the first day of kindergarten so classes could create their own kindness pledge and then share it with others.--Tanya Boudreau