This post is sponsored by Ricardo Santa Cruz. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal views.
MY REVIEW
My First Day of School by Ricardo Santa Cruz, with beautiful illustrations by Yuko Kondo, is a gentle and encouraging picture book about a boy facing all the worries that come with starting school. Will anyone like him? Will he make friends? What if he isn’t good enough? As these questions fill his mind, a kind, cloud-like companion helps him see that being yourself is the bravest thing you can do.
The story gently reminds children that they aren’t alone. Many of the classmates around them are carrying the very same fears, even if they hide them behind a smile. That simple message makes this book both comforting and empowering.
Yuko Kondo’s soft, imaginative illustrations add warmth and wonder to every page, perfectly capturing the emotions behind the story.
I found this to be a heartfelt, reassuring read that encourages children to embrace who they are, reach out to others with kindness, and discover that true friendship begins with being yourself.
ABOUT THE BOOK
My First Day of School
Written by Ricardo Santa Cruz
Illustrated by Yuko Kondo
Ages: 4-8 | 38 Pages
Publisher: Mascot Kids (2026) | ISBN: 979-8990683501
Publisher’s Book Summary: I’m afraid to be myself and don’t know if I can. Relax and remember to be yourself. There’s no need to try to be someone else. My First Day of School, the second book in a series dedicated to the inner child and higher self, tells the story of a boy on his first day of school. Nervous about making new friends and being accepted by his peers, he confides his insecurities in his higher self. With insight and guidance, his higher self shares with him that having the courage to be your authentic self inspires others to do the same and create a positive environment.
PURCHASE LINKS
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop.org
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ricardo Santa Cruz currently lives in Xala, located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, a project of which he is a co-founding partner. All proceeds from The Boy and His Higher Self will be given to The Xala Foundation, aimed at helping to educate and bring opportunities to marginalized communities from the region.
You can learn more at theboyandhishigherself.com and thexalafoundation.org.
GIVEAWAY
Readers who follow along on this virtual book tour will have the chance to win one of three book sets, each featuring both The Boy and His Higher Self and My First Day of School.
Leave a Reply