Books with title Ready, Set, Preschool!

In this third book of the series, young Lucas J steps out of his comfort zone to enter the world of preschool. He's not sure he's ready until he sees a Big Wheel, smells peanut butter cookies, and hears the laughter of a new friend. Child-illustrated, this title reminds parents of the not-too-distant past and reassures younger readers of their abilities to cope with the present.

Mitchard folds a child's school fears into a larger story about separation anxiety. Little raccoon Rory is terrified to spend the night at his cousins' home while his parents are at a party. He hides and complains, but after reassurance and coaxing, he enjoys himself. A week later, when school starts, he's ready to spend the day without his parents, and this time, it's Mom and Dad who feel clingy and nervous. The story unrolls at a leisurely pace, and there are heavy messages about finding the courage to try new things. What feels fresh are the whimsical details of the raccoon world-the school curriculum (centering around evading garage doors opening gates), the nocturnal schedule that lets raccoon kits play all night-all amusingly captured in the colorful, clean-lined artwork. The gentle story, with its final twist about parents' fears, will comfort many nervous new students. Engberg, Gillian

Rory is scared of being away from home for the first time, especially when his sleeping bag is so comfortable . . . but he doesn't want his parents treating him like a baby kit anymore. He'll get to stay up until morning if he sleeps over at his cousins' house. It could even help Rory conquer his biggest fear: starting Remarkable Raccoon Suburban School, which means nights away from his folks. Is Rory ready to show everyone—including his parents—that he's ready to go anywhere?