Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus

This beloved early chapter book introduces Junie B. Jones, an "almost six-year-old" with a big personality and an even bigger imagination, as she begins kindergarten. In this first installment, Junie B. is filled with apprehension about riding the school bus home and decides to take matters into her own hands, leading to a comical and relatable adventure. Barbara Park's writing captures the authentic voice of a young child, complete with unique grammar and candid observations, making it a hit with young readers. While some adults have debated Junie B.'s "role model" status due to her spirited behavior, the series is celebrated for its humor, its ability to normalize big feelings about new experiences, and its pure entertainment value. It's a perfect read-aloud or early independent read for children navigating their own first school experiences.

In her own words, a young girl describes her feelings about starting kindergarten and what she does when she decides not to ride the bus home.