The King of Kindergarten
Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
An African American boy’s first day of kindergarten is playfully framed through the metaphor of royalty. His parents call him the King of Kindergarten as they offer encouragement rather than status or hierarchy. His father’s future-tense narration gives practical guidance for the day, including approaching a classmate at recess to ask to play. The boy’s home reflects Afro-centric affirmation, while the community and school include children and adults from varied backgrounds. The story follows the beginning of school as a new experience shaped by family support, confidence, and meeting classmates.
This book appears on 1 reading list across 1 edition.
