Francine feels out of sorts from the moment she wakes up and doesn’t want to get out of bed. “But the teapot whistled, and the dishes were clinking in the kitchen.” Francine doesn’t want to get dressed, either. Or go to school, find her desk, or sing the “Good Morning” song. And so it goes. What child hasn’t had a day like Francine’s, when every step is a struggle, and he or she is propelled by demands beyond their control? Luckily, Francine’s mother, and her teacher, Mr. Wendell, gently guide her through the difficult day. And sometimes there’s nothing as important as time—and a well-timed hug—to make things better. Author/artist Anna Alter used pen and ink to illustrate this tender story in which all of the characters are foxes. (Ages 3–6)

Francine does not want to get up today.

And she doesn't want to get dressed.

And she doesn't want to eat breakfast.

And she doesn't want to go to school.

And once she gets to school, she certainly doesn't want to sing or recite or draw or even go to recess.

But Francine's day soon works its magic (with a little help from Francine's teacher and Francine's mother and even grumpy Francine herself), and when night time arrives, Francine doesn't want to go to bed, either!