A joyful picture book about a young alpaca’s first day back at school, from powerhouse team Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen and Leeza Hernandez

The first day back to school is always a little scary, but Alpaca is ready to face the new year! With shoes tied and snack-a all packed-a, Alpaca’s first day back-a is filled with classroom fun.

Working together. / Learning each rule.
You’re getting the KNACK-a / of being at school.
You’ll dream of tomorrow / when you hit the SACK-a
Your school will be waiting . . . / get ready, Alpaca!

From singing new songs to making new friends (and a paint spill here and there—no worries, Alpaca! Ms. Yak-a has more!), Alpaca will help young readers feel prepared for their first day, easing their anxieties and getting them excited for school.

Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen’s inventive rhyme, paired with Leeza Hernandez’s bright, graphic art, is perfect for read-aloud fun, as well as school and family libraries.