Author: Mike Thaler

Grades: Pre-K, Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd

Synopsis: The main character, a teacher, is about to start a new school year with a class she has heard some nasty rumors about. She’s heard that the students turn into monsters when they get to school. They’re rowdy, rambunctious, and noisy: the exact opposite of the kind of students a teacher would want. She’s prepared for the worst but is pleasantly surprised when her students arrive. They’re cheery and even present her with gifts for the first day of school. Instead of being fearful of her students, the teacher has a feeling she’s going to love this class.

Debrief Questions:

• What is a rumor? How do rumors affect your relationships or friendships with other people?
• When was the last time you met someone new? Did you have any expectations for what they were going to be like?
• Why is it important to have an open mind when introducing yourself to someone?
• Is a classroom a community? What can a community do to welcome new members?