An authentic expression of gratitude, THANK YOU PINE STREET stands out among the ready-for-preschool and first day-of-kindergarten books with precocious Patty's warmth and humor.

Its distinctive language choices, such as "scrump-deli-cious" and "gi-nor-mous," chase the nervous butterflies away and give kids the confidence they need to take on new classroom situations.

And with illustrations that duplicated the joyful process of creating classroom art (a finger paint and cornmeal mess), it is a top choice for preparing children for school or showing early educators a little appreciation.