What a sweet book! It’s Billy Miller’s second grade year and he worries that he isn’t smart enough; that’s only one among many worries. He must win over his teacher, sit next to a girl he doesn’t like, deal with a younger sister, a teacher Mom and an artist Dad. He must make a diorama and write poetry … the challenges are great but Billy manages to “be Billy” and come out on top. While sensitive to the nerves and insecurities of kids facing a new school year the story is encouraging too. 8-23-18
J FCB Miller
Reviewed by Susan Plimpton