Book Review of It’s the First Day of First Grade, Chloe Zoe!
The Children’s Book Review
It’s the First Day of First Grade, Chloe Zoe!
Written and Illustrated by Jane Smith
Ages 4-8 | 32 Pages
Publisher: Jane Smith (2025) | ISBN-13: 979-8985779899
What to Expect: Friendship, first-day jitters, inclusion, emotional growth, and school community.
Award-winning author-illustrator Jane Smith returns with another installment in her beloved Chloe Zoe picture book series. This time, the cheerful elephant is starting first grade—and learning that making space for new friends can make the school year even brighter.
Chloe Zoe is thrilled to be in the same class as her best friend, Mary Margaret the crocodile. But when new student Lulu the unicorn arrives, Chloe Zoe worries she might be left out. With relatable first-day jitters, small pangs of jealousy, and the ups and downs of friendship dynamics, Chloe Zoe’s story captures the emotional landscape of early elementary school with warmth and humor.
The illustrations truly steal the show. Rendered in colored pencil line and digital mixed media collage, they pop with texture, sparkle, and vibrant detail. Young readers will be especially drawn to Lulu’s dazzling pinks and the lively classroom and playground scenes, which pulse with energy. Every spread feels playful and inviting—perfect for capturing the excitement of a brand-new school year.
Smith’s text is gentle and reassuring, offering both entertainment and an important reminder about kindness, inclusion, and the joys of friendship. Kids will recognize themselves in Chloe Zoe’s feelings and cheer as she finds her place among old and new friends.
Perfect for back-to-school reading, It’s the First Day of First Grade, Chloe Zoe is a delightful picture book that combines heart, humor, and eye-catching art to celebrate the milestones of growing up.
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About the Author/Illustrator
Jane Smith is the award-winning author-illustrator of twelve children’s books, including the popular Chloe Zoe picture book series originally published by Albert Whitman and Company. It’s the First Day of First Grade, Chloe Zoe is the eighth title in the series, and continues a set of three new Chloe Zoe books releasing in 2025. Jane enjoys unicorns, getting crafty, and making kiddos laugh. She lives in sun-kissed Wilmington, North Carolina, with her husband and superstar daughter.
Visit Jane at www.superjane.com.
