Matt Novak Book Jazzbo Goes to School

Book Description
Momma says it's time to look for a school for Jazzbo. But Jazzbo says he does not need a school. He already knows a lot! It takes a very special teacher to show Jazzbo that there is a school just right for him, a school that Jazzbo needs-and one that needs him, too. This humorous and reassuring picture book will have every young child looking forward to the first day of school.
Reviews
School Library Journal (PreS-Gr1)

Jazzbo, a young bear sporting a large polka-dot bow tie, is not looking forward to starting school, so he and his mother set off to find a place that's just right for him. First comes a visit to Grumpity School, where children work all day, followed by a trip to Willy Nilly School, where children play all day. Finally, Miss Boggle wins the cub's heart by demonstrating that Super School needs Jazzbo as much as he needs it. The text is spare yet serviceable and the illustrations are large, boisterous, and colorful. The landscapes of home, school, and play yard are bouncy and curved with nary a straight line in sight. A wordless double-page spread marks the point in which Jazzbo really begins to fit in. Occasional dialogue balloons add a playful look to the artwork. Just as in Novak's Mouse TV (1994) and The Pillow War (1998, both Orchard), there is enough eye-catching detail and visual goofiness contained in the busy illustrations to reassure children who are apprehensive about starting school.-Mary Ann Carcich, formerly at Brooklyn Public Library, NY