Finally, Tommy returns to tell them about his day.  He learned all about letters A through D. The story gives a nice description of the animals' viewpoint about Tommy leaving home to go to kindergarten. G. Brian Karas' childlike illustrations, in mostly earth-tones, add depth and character to the story. I think a little about Tommy's day in kindergarten would have added greatly to the story. However, it would be reassuring to read this story to a child who will be going to kindergarten for the first time.

Young children could be fearful about leaving home for an unknown place called kindergarten, and reading this wonderful conversation starter aloud at family time is a good way to bring up ideas about that experience, and to talk to children about what they can expect...to reassure them that everyone will be anxiously waiting for them to return each day.