Posey is scared about her impending entry into first grade, especially the thought of getting dropped off at the curb and braving school on her own. The next-door neighbors intensify her fear with stories of monsters and snakes, and even though Posey knows they are teasing her, she becomes increasingly anxious. To make things worse, her mom has informed her that she can’t wear her battered tutu to school, an outfit she’s worn daily all summer and that secretly makes her feel empowered (it’s shown glittery pink on the cover). But a chance encounter with her new teacher before school starts turns things around. By the time the first day arrives, Posey is looking forward to the milestone event. This reassuring story features short chapters, even shorter lines of text with ample white space between them, and black-and-white illustrations on many pages. The fine writing transcends a few weak moments in the plot in a welcome book for readers who are ready to tackle slightly longer chapter stories. (Ages 5–8)