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by Lisa Corduan (Author), Tabitha Gail Simmons (Illustrator)
Tessie's first day at her new school is tougher than she ever imagined: cubbies brim with backpacks, classmates chatter over favorite stories, and every seat seems claimed. When she musters the courage to ask, "May I sit with you?", she's met with a chorus of "No - I'm saving this seat for my friend."
Everything changes when Libby spots Tessie reading her favorite story and exclaims, "I love that book, too!" Soon the two girls are side-by-side, sharing pages and giggles. Through Lisa Corduan's gentle, rhythmic prose and Tabitha Gail Simmons's warm, expressive illustrations, young readers will cheer as Tessie and Libby-bonded by their shared love of stories-turn an empty seat into the start of something beautiful.
- Early-Reader Friendly: Controlled vocabulary and playful repetition support emerging readers and make for delightful read-aloud moments.
- Empathy & Inclusion: A powerful, accessible way to spark conversations about kindness, acceptance, and the courage to reach out.
- Back-to-School Essential: Eases first-day jitters, supports anti-bullying discussions, and encourages classroom camaraderie.
