Chrysanthemum thinks her name is absolutely perfect, until her first day of school. "You're named after a flower!" teases Victoria. "Let's smell her, " says Jo. Chrysanthemum wilts. What will it take to make her blossom again?

"Henkes's language and humor are impeccably fresh, his cozy illustrations sensitive and funny, his little asides to adults an unobtrusive delight. . . . Another winner from this perceptive artist." - Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

"This sensitive story will strike a chord with young children." - School Library Journal (starred review)

"Nicely structured, wittily told, and universal in its appeal." - Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Kevin Henkes has been praised both as a writer and as an illustrator and is the recipient of the Children's Literature Legacy Award for his lasting contribution to literature for children. He received the Caldecott Medal for Kitten's First Full Moon; Caldecott Honors for Waiting and Owen; Newbery Honors for Olive's Ocean and The Year of Billy Miller; and Geisel Honors for Waiting and Penny and Her Marble. His other books include Is It Spring?, The World and Everything in It, A House, A Parade of Elephants, Chrysanthemum, and the beloved Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse. Kevin Henkes lives with his family in Madison, Wisconsin.

Chrysanthemum: A First Day of School Book for Kids by Kevin Hankes