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Mr. S: A First Day of School Book

Description:

Prepare for plenty of giggles as a kindergarten class arrives for their first day of school but can't find their teacher—only a delicious-looking sandwich and the words "Mr. S" scribbled on the chalkboard. Chaos ensues as the kids argue whether the sandwich must be their teacher. A comical first-day-of-school book of mayhem and chaos by Monica Arnaldo, perfect for fans of Miss Nelson Is Missing.

“This might be the funniest first-day-of-school book I’ve ever read." —Adam Rex, New York Times bestselling author of School’s First Day of School

It was the first day of school.

But even the kindergarteners of room 2B could tell something was seriously wrong. . . . Where was the teacher? Who left this sandwich on the desk?

The only clue, written on the chalkboard, were three simple letters: Mr. S

Praise for Mr. S:

"Confusion, mystery, and laughs are on the menu in Arnaldo’s deliciously goofy back-to-school tale." —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"The tale's genuinely absurd situation, the mystery of the teacher's identity, and the deadpan storytelling make this a memorable read-aloud choice." —ALA Booklist (starred review)

"Mysteries for young readers are few and far between and this one is fun and entertaining." —School Library Journal (starred review)

An Amazon Best Book of the Month * A Junior Library Guild Selection * Indigo Staff Pick of the Month * Governor General's Literary Award Finalist * Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year * Indigo Best Book of the Year * Chicago Public Library Best of the Best List * New York Public Library Best Book of the Year * School Library Journal Best Book of the Year * Booklist Editor's Choice

Read more

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

PreS-Gr 1—On the first day of school, a class of 12 children notices a cup of coffee, some papers, and a sandwich sitting on the teacher's desk—but no teacher. Without someone to conduct the class, half the kids are ready to run amok until a ruler suddenly falls off the desk onto the floor. Startled, the children decide that the "Mr. S" someone has written on the blackboard stands for the sandwich perched up front. Since they believe they're being supervised by their unconventional teacher, the dozen immediately fall in line and go through their lessons by themselves, including art where they paint pictures of sandwiches, story time, and music where, of course, they sing about sandwiches. Watercolors, colored pencils, and ink are part of the vivid digital illustrations which vary in size and show plenty of movement as well as the children's engaging facial expressions. The diverse, multi-ability class, including a boy using a wheelchair and a youngster with glasses, work as a team while they discuss and argue the probability of having a sandwich for a teacher. Observant readers will see that there's a second dramatic story happening simultaneously in the parking lot just outside the window. VERDICT Mysteries for young readers are few and far between and this one is fun and entertaining; it will elicit laughter and plenty of discussion.—Maryann H. Owen

Review

“This might be the funniest first-day-of-school book I’ve ever read."  — Adam Rex, New York Times bestselling author of School’s First Day of School

"Confusion, mystery, and laughs are on the menu in Arnaldo’s deliciously goofy back-to-school tale. Readers will find plenty to chuckle over." — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"The tale's genuinely absurd situation, the mystery of the teacher's identity, and the deadpan storytelling make this a memorable read-aloud choice. A genuinely funny story that teachers and parents will enjoy sharing with children." — Booklist (starred review)

"Mysteries for young readers are few and far between and this one is fun and entertaining; it will elicit laughter and–plenty of discussion." — School Library Journal (starred review)

"Everything about the narrative is playful, and readers will be sucked in by a seriously funny question: Can a sandwich be a teacher? Far from stale and ripe for repeating." — Kirkus Reviews

"[T]his story gleefully leans into absurdity, with a dash of epistemological musings. Young skeptics will be surprised by the true identity of the teacher of room 2B in a twist that makes this a standout among first day of school titles. " — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

"Humour is at the heart of this rollicking tale about starting school. [B]ound to amuse both young listeners and those reading the book aloud." — Montreal Gazette

"When the students entered kindergarten classroom 2B, they knew something was wrong. On the teacher’s desk was a sandwich, a mug of coffee and some papers, but no teacher. Cleverly hidden within the soft-coloured illustrations, is the real story. This is a fun book for the first day of school." — Calgary Herald

PRAISE FOR ARE YOU A CHEESEBURGER?: “There’s a lot of profundity within these whimsical pages—about growing up, overcoming disappointment through acceptance, and valuing relationships over personal needs—which should plant some hearty seeds of conversation for readers of all ages.”  — Publishers Weekly

“Emotionally authentic and sweet without being saccharine. Silly and heartwarming in equal measure.”  — Kirkus Reviews

“Audiences will enjoy the clever banter between the new friends and the literal visual feast the illustrations offer up. Aspiring botanists and young foodies will appreciate this quirky little tale.”  — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

"Refreshingly novel for its unexpected duo of characters. Will amuse young listeners. A delightfully quirky tale about an uncommon pairing of characters that offers light humor and guileless dialogue as they learn to treasure their blossoming friendship."  — School Library Journal

“This is a sweet tale of slow-blossoming friendship and unconditional acceptance, of celebrating differences and being gentle with others. Highly original and excellent… the illustrations present delightful layers of imaginative, whimsical joy.”  — Booklist

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Recommended for anyone looking to add some laughter to their day!

J.S.B. · August 9, 2024

Mr. S by Monica Arnaldo is an entertaining first-day-of-school book sure to give you a case of the giggles.Something’s terribly wrong! Even the new kindergarteners can tell. Where’s their teacher? A search for the answer turns up two clues— “Mr. S”, written on the blackboard and…a sandwich on the desk. Could it be Mr. S? With no other answer in sight, the students organize and work their way through the day’s lessons. ABCs come first with A is for avocado toast, B is for bagel and so on. Art lessons, and story time are followed by music class complete with an imaginative chorus of Mary had a little ham.Arnaldo spins this tale of classroom antics with a wacky sense of the absurd, but a glance out the window reveals a second tale unfolding. Prior to the children’s arrival a man is seen writing “Mr. S” on the board just as a massive tree falls on his car in the parking lot during a violent storm. He rushes out and page turn after page turn tells another story as chaos ensues with lightning strikes, firefighters arrive…Could this be the illusive Mr. S? The author merrily leads readers down a path of assumptions until she pulls the two narratives together with a surprise twist at the end to solve the mystery!Arnaldo’s brilliant use of illustration to tell the two stories makes this a wonderfully visual experience that invites readers both young and old to look beneath the surface of the classroom tale. The clever narrative will make this a read aloud favorite sure to be requested time and time again.Recommended for anyone looking to add some laughter to their day!

5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely hilarious book

S.S. · April 29, 2025

This book nearly made my child wet the bed from laughing so hard. The twists and turns and subtle humor make this a masterpiece. I’m going to be reading it to the class along with another Monica Arnaldo classic next week. Easy 5/5 stars.

5.0 out of 5 stars So funny

B.W. · March 30, 2025

This is hilarious! I checked it out at the library and had to buy it to share with everyone I know. I even shared it during an icebreaker as the highlight of my week. Be sure to read the author’s about me section. Had to get her other book too!

5.0 out of 5 stars Not just for kids.

P.A.S. · March 24, 2024

This book was purchased for my grandson. Which I read before gifting. Absolutely loved it. Cutest child’s book I read in a long time. Loved the artistic work and story in the background. Two story’s in one!!! Amazing. Recommend this book for everyone it’s a great read.

4.0 out of 5 stars The book is good quality

R.s. · August 10, 2024

Good quality paperback. I personally don’t care for the actual story itself.

5.0 out of 5 stars Funny

N. · September 16, 2024

Daughter loved it. 1st grade.

3.0 out of 5 stars Okay

l. · April 26, 2025

Story was okay. Children were not engaged.

5.0 out of 5 stars Hilarious!

J.F. · July 9, 2023

Monica truly possesses a remarkable talent! Her previous books exhibit a delightful wit, and 'Mr. S' is no exception. It's impressive how she crafts children's books that also captivate adults…a truly underrated skill. Her ability to strike that balance is commendable!

Does what is expected

A.C. · February 23, 2024

Easy to use

Visit the HarperCollins Store

Mr. S: A First Day of School Book

Product ID: U0063003953
Condition: New

4.5

AED8966

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Type: Hardcover
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

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Visit the HarperCollins Store

Mr. S: A First Day of School Book

Product ID: U0063003953
Condition: New

4.5

Mr. S: A First Day of School Book-0
Type: Hardcover

AED8966

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

Description:

Prepare for plenty of giggles as a kindergarten class arrives for their first day of school but can't find their teacher—only a delicious-looking sandwich and the words "Mr. S" scribbled on the chalkboard. Chaos ensues as the kids argue whether the sandwich must be their teacher. A comical first-day-of-school book of mayhem and chaos by Monica Arnaldo, perfect for fans of Miss Nelson Is Missing.

“This might be the funniest first-day-of-school book I’ve ever read." —Adam Rex, New York Times bestselling author of School’s First Day of School

It was the first day of school.

But even the kindergarteners of room 2B could tell something was seriously wrong. . . . Where was the teacher? Who left this sandwich on the desk?

The only clue, written on the chalkboard, were three simple letters: Mr. S

Praise for Mr. S:

"Confusion, mystery, and laughs are on the menu in Arnaldo’s deliciously goofy back-to-school tale." —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"The tale's genuinely absurd situation, the mystery of the teacher's identity, and the deadpan storytelling make this a memorable read-aloud choice." —ALA Booklist (starred review)

"Mysteries for young readers are few and far between and this one is fun and entertaining." —School Library Journal (starred review)

An Amazon Best Book of the Month * A Junior Library Guild Selection * Indigo Staff Pick of the Month * Governor General's Literary Award Finalist * Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year * Indigo Best Book of the Year * Chicago Public Library Best of the Best List * New York Public Library Best Book of the Year * School Library Journal Best Book of the Year * Booklist Editor's Choice

Read more

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

PreS-Gr 1—On the first day of school, a class of 12 children notices a cup of coffee, some papers, and a sandwich sitting on the teacher's desk—but no teacher. Without someone to conduct the class, half the kids are ready to run amok until a ruler suddenly falls off the desk onto the floor. Startled, the children decide that the "Mr. S" someone has written on the blackboard stands for the sandwich perched up front. Since they believe they're being supervised by their unconventional teacher, the dozen immediately fall in line and go through their lessons by themselves, including art where they paint pictures of sandwiches, story time, and music where, of course, they sing about sandwiches. Watercolors, colored pencils, and ink are part of the vivid digital illustrations which vary in size and show plenty of movement as well as the children's engaging facial expressions. The diverse, multi-ability class, including a boy using a wheelchair and a youngster with glasses, work as a team while they discuss and argue the probability of having a sandwich for a teacher. Observant readers will see that there's a second dramatic story happening simultaneously in the parking lot just outside the window. VERDICT Mysteries for young readers are few and far between and this one is fun and entertaining; it will elicit laughter and plenty of discussion.—Maryann H. Owen

Review

“This might be the funniest first-day-of-school book I’ve ever read."  — Adam Rex, New York Times bestselling author of School’s First Day of School

"Confusion, mystery, and laughs are on the menu in Arnaldo’s deliciously goofy back-to-school tale. Readers will find plenty to chuckle over." — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"The tale's genuinely absurd situation, the mystery of the teacher's identity, and the deadpan storytelling make this a memorable read-aloud choice. A genuinely funny story that teachers and parents will enjoy sharing with children." — Booklist (starred review)

"Mysteries for young readers are few and far between and this one is fun and entertaining; it will elicit laughter and–plenty of discussion." — School Library Journal (starred review)

"Everything about the narrative is playful, and readers will be sucked in by a seriously funny question: Can a sandwich be a teacher? Far from stale and ripe for repeating." — Kirkus Reviews

"[T]his story gleefully leans into absurdity, with a dash of epistemological musings. Young skeptics will be surprised by the true identity of the teacher of room 2B in a twist that makes this a standout among first day of school titles. " — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

"Humour is at the heart of this rollicking tale about starting school. [B]ound to amuse both young listeners and those reading the book aloud." — Montreal Gazette

"When the students entered kindergarten classroom 2B, they knew something was wrong. On the teacher’s desk was a sandwich, a mug of coffee and some papers, but no teacher. Cleverly hidden within the soft-coloured illustrations, is the real story. This is a fun book for the first day of school." — Calgary Herald

PRAISE FOR ARE YOU A CHEESEBURGER?: “There’s a lot of profundity within these whimsical pages—about growing up, overcoming disappointment through acceptance, and valuing relationships over personal needs—which should plant some hearty seeds of conversation for readers of all ages.”  — Publishers Weekly

“Emotionally authentic and sweet without being saccharine. Silly and heartwarming in equal measure.”  — Kirkus Reviews

“Audiences will enjoy the clever banter between the new friends and the literal visual feast the illustrations offer up. Aspiring botanists and young foodies will appreciate this quirky little tale.”  — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

"Refreshingly novel for its unexpected duo of characters. Will amuse young listeners. A delightfully quirky tale about an uncommon pairing of characters that offers light humor and guileless dialogue as they learn to treasure their blossoming friendship."  — School Library Journal

“This is a sweet tale of slow-blossoming friendship and unconditional acceptance, of celebrating differences and being gentle with others. Highly original and excellent… the illustrations present delightful layers of imaginative, whimsical joy.”  — Booklist

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Recommended for anyone looking to add some laughter to their day!

J.S.B. · August 9, 2024

Mr. S by Monica Arnaldo is an entertaining first-day-of-school book sure to give you a case of the giggles.Something’s terribly wrong! Even the new kindergarteners can tell. Where’s their teacher? A search for the answer turns up two clues— “Mr. S”, written on the blackboard and…a sandwich on the desk. Could it be Mr. S? With no other answer in sight, the students organize and work their way through the day’s lessons. ABCs come first with A is for avocado toast, B is for bagel and so on. Art lessons, and story time are followed by music class complete with an imaginative chorus of Mary had a little ham.Arnaldo spins this tale of classroom antics with a wacky sense of the absurd, but a glance out the window reveals a second tale unfolding. Prior to the children’s arrival a man is seen writing “Mr. S” on the board just as a massive tree falls on his car in the parking lot during a violent storm. He rushes out and page turn after page turn tells another story as chaos ensues with lightning strikes, firefighters arrive…Could this be the illusive Mr. S? The author merrily leads readers down a path of assumptions until she pulls the two narratives together with a surprise twist at the end to solve the mystery!Arnaldo’s brilliant use of illustration to tell the two stories makes this a wonderfully visual experience that invites readers both young and old to look beneath the surface of the classroom tale. The clever narrative will make this a read aloud favorite sure to be requested time and time again.Recommended for anyone looking to add some laughter to their day!

5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely hilarious book

S.S. · April 29, 2025

This book nearly made my child wet the bed from laughing so hard. The twists and turns and subtle humor make this a masterpiece. I’m going to be reading it to the class along with another Monica Arnaldo classic next week. Easy 5/5 stars.

5.0 out of 5 stars So funny

B.W. · March 30, 2025

This is hilarious! I checked it out at the library and had to buy it to share with everyone I know. I even shared it during an icebreaker as the highlight of my week. Be sure to read the author’s about me section. Had to get her other book too!

5.0 out of 5 stars Not just for kids.

P.A.S. · March 24, 2024

This book was purchased for my grandson. Which I read before gifting. Absolutely loved it. Cutest child’s book I read in a long time. Loved the artistic work and story in the background. Two story’s in one!!! Amazing. Recommend this book for everyone it’s a great read.

4.0 out of 5 stars The book is good quality

R.s. · August 10, 2024

Good quality paperback. I personally don’t care for the actual story itself.

5.0 out of 5 stars Funny

N. · September 16, 2024

Daughter loved it. 1st grade.

3.0 out of 5 stars Okay

l. · April 26, 2025

Story was okay. Children were not engaged.

5.0 out of 5 stars Hilarious!

J.F. · July 9, 2023

Monica truly possesses a remarkable talent! Her previous books exhibit a delightful wit, and 'Mr. S' is no exception. It's impressive how she crafts children's books that also captivate adults…a truly underrated skill. Her ability to strike that balance is commendable!

Does what is expected

A.C. · February 23, 2024

Easy to use

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