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  • Published: 8 September 2026
  • ISBN: 9798217028672
  • Imprint: RHUS Children's Books
  • Format: Hardback
  • Pages: 32
  • RRP: $36.00

A Not So Perfect Start (The Caring Classroom, Book 1)



Welcome to The Caring Classroom! A new series that gives kids the building blocks they need to be a kind and caring person in the classroom and beyond, from a trusted expert in social development.

In book 1, a young perfectionist learns from her mistakes when her first week of school turns into a perfect mess!

Welcome to The Caring Classroom! A new series that gives kids the building blocks they need to be a kind and caring person in the classroom and beyond, from a trusted expert in social development.

In book 1, a young perfectionist learns from her mistakes when her first week of school turns into a perfect mess!

It's the first week of school, and Thea wants everything to be perfect. She's determined not to make a single mistake—which leads to a lot of anxiety! When an art project disaster messes up her perfect week, Thea must make the best of an imperfect situation, with the help of her teacher and classmates. Turns out, a little mess is the perfect way to bring this caring classroom together!

From the renowned bullying expert who brought you The Invisible Boy comes a new series developed in partnership with kindergarten and early elementary teachers to encourage kindness and character growth in the classroom and beyond. Bright, inviting artwork from Maribel Lechuga brings the story to life, with a sprinkling of humor and heart on every page.

  • Published: 8 September 2026
  • ISBN: 9798217028672
  • Imprint: RHUS Children's Books
  • Format: Hardback
  • Pages: 32
  • RRP: $36.00

About the author

Trudy Ludwig

TRUDY LUDWIG, author of six books for children, has been profiled on national television, radio, and newsprint. An active member of the International Bullying Prevention Association, she is a sought after speaker who collaborates frequently with organizations like The Ophelia Project, Hands & Words Are Not For Hurting Project, and Putting Family First. Trudy's books have received the Mom's Choice Gold Award, the Cooperative Children's Book Center's "Best of the Best of the Year" award, and have been recognized as NCSS-CBC Notable Social Studies Books for Young People. Trudy lives in Portland, Oregon.

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Praise for A Not So Perfect Start (The Caring Classroom, Book 1)

Praise for The Invisible Boy:

  • "A lovely lesson in the simple acts of friendship." --USA Today
  • "Pitch-perfect words and art." --Scholastic Instructor