‘Let’s Get Ready for School’ is a reassuring guide to what to expect when you start school. It’s written by me and illustrated by Carolina Rabei, and is published by Walker Books (August 2021).

What will school be like? What will we do there? What if I miss Mummy? Do I have to go?
All of these questions and more are answered in this warm, witty and reassuring book for young children that explores everything they’ll need to know before starting school. Marley, Maya, Theo, Akiko, Ella and Zakir are all getting ready to start school. Why not come along with them and see what it’s like? Illustrated with charming characters by Carolina Rabei, this is the perfect introduction to joining a new class.

Longlisted for the 2022 SLA Information Book Award.

“A fantastic and reassuring new guide to school for young children. With simple, easy-to-understand text from Jane Porter, the book covers everything from what’s inside a classroom to lunchtime, playtime, and the journey to and from school. The book is brought to life with super illustrations from Carolina Rabei, too, making this a wonderful way to get talking about your child’s big day.” Booktrust

“There are many books out there about starting school but I think that this is one of the best that I’ve seen. I would highly recommend this book for anyone who has a child due to start school within the next few months. It really will put their mind at ease and it covers everything.” Catherine, The Reading Zone

“Let’s Get Ready for School is a great introduction to this important step in our little ones’ lives—going to big school—and this book is a lovely way to get them mentally ready for the adventure ahead. Jane Porter has carefully included a range of emotional responses likely to be present in the children from the natural nervousness of some, the can’t-wait-to-get-there excitement of others, and those who are a little cautious. She has included a wide range of activities that school provides with academic based subjects, physical sports and social interaction represented…This is a lovely insight into the whole-of-classroom dynamic.” Reading Time

You can watch me and Carolina chatting about our starting school memories in this video.