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I Am Too Absolutely Small for School

By Lauren Child

Part of the Charlie and Lola series

Lola’s too-small, too-busy worries meet Charlie’s surprising secret about starting school.

charming humorous reassuring

Pageticker community rating

Average score: 4.56

From 9 readers

What do our readers think of I Am Too Absolutely Small for School? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children enjoy Lola’s funny excuses, unusual imagination and colourful illustrations, especially her invisible friend. Some children find the lettering and busy collage-style pages harder to follow at first.

What does the Pageticker team say about I Am Too Absolutely Small for School?

Lauren Child turns first-day nerves into a lively, funny conversation between Lola and her wonderfully patient big brother, Charlie. The quirky collage artwork, playful language and invisible friend make this a reassuring choice for children facing school for the first time, although Lola’s elaborate excuses may give determined worriers a few new ideas!

Genres

Humour Feelings/Wellbeing

What is I Am Too Absolutely Small for School about?

Lola is convinced she's too small and too busy to start school. Her big brother, Charlie, gently addresses her worries, showing her the fun and learning that await. With warmth and humour, this story helps ease first-day-of-school jitters.

About the author

Lauren Child is a brilliant British author and illustrator, best known for creating the much-loved Charlie and Lola books. She has also written the Clarice Bean and Ruby Redfort series. Lauren’s stories are full of fun, clever ideas, and lively pictures that encourage children to use their imagination and enjoy reading.

Discussion ideas around I Am Too Absolutely Small for School

Lola’s worries: What do you think Lola is really worried about when she says she is too small and too busy for school?

Charlie’s help: How does Charlie help Lola feel better, and what could someone say to help you when you feel nervous?

Growing up: What things show that Lola is becoming ready for school, even if she does not feel ready yet?

Imaginary friends: Why might having Soren Lorensen with her make school feel easier for Lola?

School surprises: What do you think Lola might enjoy most about school, and why?

Pages

32 pages

Reading age

Picture Book (2-7)

This edition

2007

First published

2003

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