Some
children (and teachers) celebrate the end of the school year with lots of fanfare, but
in Room 3, the experience is bittersweet. Gretchen Brandenburg McLellan’s
debut picture book, Mrs. McBee Leaves Room 3, shows readers that everyone has a
special way of saying good-bye.
It’s
the end of the school year at Mayflower Elementary, and the students aren’t the
only ones leaving Room 3—Mrs. McBee will not be returning to school after
summer break. In addition to cleaning up the classroom for the end of the year,
Jamaika, William, and the other students of Room 3 want to find a special way
to celebrate their beloved teacher. But how will they arrive at an agreement
when they all have different ideas?
Children are continuously experiencing transitions—whether it's new grades, new teachers, or just new everyday experiences. With
a distinct cast of lively and diverse characters, brought to life by Grace Zong’s charming illustrations, Gretchen
Brandenburg McLellan’s amusing and touching story highlights the mixed emotions surrounding those transitions, and the importance of
recognizing, observing, and celebrating them.
“A thoroughly satisfying solution to the issue of saying goodbye.”—Kirkus Reviews
“An earnest, unflashy story that has all the earmarks for becoming a staple for schools and students facing similar transitions.” —Publishers Weekly
Labels: Announcements, Children's books, New Book Wednesday, Picture books, School Days, School Stories
