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We Will Rock Our Classmates

 


We Will Rock Our Classmates

By Ryan T. Higgins

Disney-Hyperion, 2020. Picture Book.

Penelope the T-Rex is back! She is still the only dinosaur in school and sometimes all the other students see is a dinosaur. When Penelope hears about the school talent show she can't wait to show her classmates she is more then just a dinosaur and she has talent for rock-n-roll. She signs her name on the sign up sheet, practices her skills and tells her parents "it's going to be so great!" But when rehearsal time comes Penelope gets stage fright and finds she can't make a sound. Maybe dinosaurs can't rock 'n' roll after all. 

This enjoyable follow up to "We Don't Eat Our Classmates" is about having the courage to go after your dreams and not be afraid to be yourself. It's also a reminder that friends will be there for you to help out when you need it most. The colorful illustrations are fun and bright and the simple humor will keep you turning pages as you cheer on Penelope. This is an engaging read aloud that everyone will enjoy.

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