Principal Tate Is Running Late!

"For the most part, the rhyming verse works to make the story playful . . . the ultimate message of a community working together toward a common goal resonates. The ink-and-watercolor illustrations are simple, bright, and colorful and add quite a bit of humor." School Library Journal "What will happen to Hardy Elementary school when reliable Principal Tate runs late? . . . Emotions and relationships are visualized and engaging. A sweet message for school communities." Kirkus Reviews "The rhyming text . . . is nonetheless lively, with abundant tongue-in-cheek humor. Fine-lined ink illustrations, sweetened by gentle watercolor washes, depict the school with an expressive population of varying abilities, sizes, and species . . . This amusing picture book gamely lauds school staff and the hurdles they must regularly overcome." Publishers Weekly "Cole sets his latest rhymed romp at an elementary school populated by animals that quickly slides to the edge of catastrophe when the principal (a no-nonsense hen) goes missing. Whats the upshot? 'When a school gets along, / its a place of community, / working so beautifully, together in unity.'" Booklist "[An] entertaining and cheery school story. Coles watercolor and ink illustrations abound with expressive animals, comical situations, and familiar school settings. A lively and lighthearted tale, and a paean to community." Horn Book Magazine

Henry Cole was a celebrated science teacher for many years before turning his talents to childrens books. He has worked on nearly one hundred and fifty books for children, including Unspoken, Big Bug, A Nest for Celeste, Jacks Garden, and On Meadowview Street. Henry loves being outside, where he can sketch and write. His favorite sound is the first robin song of the spring. You can visit him online at www.henrycole.net. Henry Cole was a celebrated science teacher for many years before turning his talents to childrens books. He has worked on nearly one hundred and fifty books for children, including Unspoken, Big Bug, A Nest for Celeste, Jacks Garden, and On Meadowview Street. Henry loves being outside, where he can sketch and write. His favorite sound is the first robin song of the spring. You can visit him online at www.henrycole.net.