"The universal experience of the first day of school can stir up different responses in kids. Where many texts follow the experience of one child, this title offers a unique perspective on how two ­different “kids” (in this case a penguin and a chicken) experience this yearly hurdle. . . . While the theme of going back to school is common, how Chi-Chi and ­Pey-Pey’s friendship is ultimately built allows for each of them to shine. VERDICT A solid choice for libraries that circulate graphic novels to younger readers."

– School Library Journal, June 2023

"A comics primer dressed up in an odd-couple school story for new readers. . . . follow Chi Chi and Pey Pey as they separately anticipate the start of school and then attend their first day together. Their words and thoughts effectively guide readers through the scenes as cute, appealing cartoon illustrations provide visual cues to assist decoding. It’s immediately clear that the birds are opposites, with Chi Chi feeling anxious about school while Pey Pey isn’t a bit worried. . . . Chi Chi and Pey Pey seemingly have nothing in common, but Mrs. Possum encourages them to overcome their differences, and they do so in an unexpected, playful way. An early reader to befriend."

– Kirkus, 5/1/23