The Pigeon HAS to Go to School!

Mo Willems delivers another hilarious installment in his beloved Pigeon series, tackling the universal anxiety of the first day of school. This picture book perfectly captures the dramatic, excuse-filled meltdown of a bird convinced he already knows everything, from his frantic bargaining to his wild "what if" scenarios about teachers, homework, and learning too much. The simple, expressive illustrations and conversational, interactive text directly engage young readers, making them active participants in the Pigeon's emotional journey from stubborn resistance to reluctant acceptance.

What makes this story so effective is its profound understanding of childhood fears, using humor to validate and disarm a preschooler's very real school-related worries. The Pigeon’s over-the-top theatrics provide a safe, comedic outlet for children to see their own anxieties reflected and, ultimately, laughed away. Willems masterfully concludes with a relatable pivot, as the Pigeon’s biggest concern becomes making sure the school bus will wait for him. It’s a brilliant, comforting read that turns a stressful milestone into a shared, giggle-filled experience.