Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
A girl learns to speak up in book one of fun school series.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In EMMA MCKENNA, FULL OUT: THE KIDS IN MRS. Z'S CLASS, BOOK 1, Emma Mckenna is starting third grade at a new school. Not only is the school new to her, but Curiosity Academy is new to the town of Peppermint Falls. When she meets the kids in her class, she wonders if she'll measure up to how interesting they all seem to be. But then someone Emma knows walks into the room, someone who used to be her best friend but then started calling her a horrible name and spread it all around their old school. Will the school year be a success? Or will this person ruin everything?
Is It Any Good?
Charming and full of energy, the first book in this series about kids in Mrs. Z's class at Curiosity Academy will inspire young readers to turn pages. The characters in Emma McKenna, Full Out are different in relatable, familiar ways. The premise of a school that encourages curiosity and uniqueness is meant to resonate with young readers who are discovering their cadence in elementary school.
Emma, whose self confidence takes a blow when her nemesis shows up, is a sympathetic hero. Parents and young readers will enjoy the jaunty pace of this story and appreciate the valuable lessons about finding a voice and facing fears.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about communication in Emma McKenna, Full Out. How can communication be used in ways that can change how someone sees themselves? What does encouraging communication sound like?
The main character gives herself a boost of bravery by using cheer leading techniques before she does something that frightens her. What do you do or say to yourself to give yourself courage?
Teamwork is important in Mrs. Z's class, and she helps kids work together for the unity of the group. What helps to get people working well together? What keeps people from having harmony in a group?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Kat Fajardo
- Genre : School
- Topics : Friendship , Animals ( Wild Animals )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Algonquin Young Readers
- Publication date : April 30, 2024
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 6 - 9
- Number of pages : 128
- Available on : Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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