cover image See You in Second Grade!

See You in Second Grade!

Miriam Cohen. Greenwillow Books, $15 (32pp) ISBN 978-0-688-07138-7

America's favorite first graders are back. Cohen and Hoban have collaborated on more than 15 tales of these loveable, likeable and consistently realistic kids, who here enjoy a year-end picnic at the beach. As in each of the adventures, each child has a specific way of handling any crisis or opportunity that crops up. Anna Maria forgets her lunch and bathing suit so the class pitches in to help her find something to eat and wear. They enjoy all the simple beach pleasures of sand and surf as well as reminisce with their beloved teacher about their experiences together. When they express worries about second grade, their teacher reassures them, saying ``I've never forgotten a single one of my First Graders!'' Readers will agree that this class is unforgettable, but will want to know: When does second grade begin? Ages 5-up. (Mar.)