Review Detail

I REALLY WANT TO BE FIRST features Really Bird, who feels emotions strongly, and today, he really wants to be first. Usually, Really Bird is last, but today, he is determined to be the first and lead the way. As they set out with Really Bird being first, he leads his friends, Cat and Pup, up into a tree. However, once there, they are afraid and not sure how to get down. Really Bird does not help, but brags that he is first down after they make their way together back to the ground.

What I loved: The story features some very colorful illustrations with cartoonish, fun characters that will appeal to young readers. The amount of text on each page is brief, making the story move very quickly. It will also work well for early independent readers for this reason. The end of the book includes some questions to inspire discussion and further consideration that may resonate with children.

What left me wanting more: While the messages around being first and needing to help your friends are not obvious, they may be presented through caregiver discussion about what Really Bird could/should have done better. However, if children are beginning to read independently, the message may not really come across, and Really Bird does not really demonstrate how to be a good friend or leader.

Final verdict: I REALLY WANT TO BE FIRST features colorful illustrations and brief text that will work well for early readers. Discussion with caregivers will be needed to elucidate the messages around the story.