ISBN: 0823457923
Goodreads
Ms. Bernice to the Rescue, by Chelea Lin Wallace, Illustrated by Thyra Heder.
This second picture book in the School Heroes series highlights an amazing custodian, Bernice. The story of Bernice’s very busy day is told in clever, rhyming text with dynamic multimedia and watercolor illustrations. She starts the day with a very full to do list, and as she starts to work, she gets called to help with many emergencies. Bernice’s calm, can-do approach helps her take care of everything from glitter explosions, a flooded bathroom, and rogue playground balls on the roof. The kids and teachers are so grateful they create a surprise celebration for her at the end of the day!
Like many school custodians, Bernice doesn’t just clean up, she is a savvy, creative problem solver who is essential to the school community. She includes and empowers the kids to help her take care of the school, and she teaches her own lessons along the way. At the end of the day, she rests at home while her husband does the dishes. This is a great read aloud for school libraries, and a five star, cream of the crop nominee.
Reviewed by Antona Briley, Librarian, Dora Small School, South Portland