Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Snyder
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Cute first-day-of-school story has positive representations.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
It's the first day of school, and young MJ Malone couldn't be more ready! But before she gets going, her mom has an important responsibility for her: She places a sparkly tiara on MJ's head and deems her THE QUEEN OF KINDERGARTEN. Momma tells MJ that a queen brightens up every room she enters, is caring and kind, and is helpful to others. MJ is determined to live out these qualities, and this special first day of school gives her many opportunities to do so. Along the way, she shines as a leader, makes new friends, and shows that she is deserving of the title.
Is It Any Good?
Vivid illustrations, a bold main character, and gentle lessons on kindness and leadership will help young readers get ready for the first day of school. The Queen of Kindergarten is a captivating read for members of the whole family. It's easy to fall in love with MJ as a character, rooting for her along with the members of her fun and endearing family. The representations of a confident Black female protagonist, her supportive family, and her natural-hair-rocking teacher are positives for all kids to see and admire. Author Derrick Barnes has a gift for empowering young Black readers through the written word, and illustrator Vanessa Brantley-Newton is ingenious at bringing important stories to life with infectious energy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about positive role models in The Queen of Kindergarten. What qualities do role models have? How does MJ show those qualities?
How can you tell that MJ has a fun and loving family? How is her family like yours? How is it different?
What is MJ's first day of kindergarten like? What helps MJ feel ready for her first day of kindergarten? What helps you get ready for a new experience?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Vanessa Brantley-Newton
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Courage , Empathy , Humility , Integrity
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Nancy Paulsen Books
- Publication date : May 24, 2022
- Number of pages : 32
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate