King School

Alexis Deacon's King School is a playful and imaginative picture book that follows a young child as they challenge what it means to be 'King' at King School. It very simply addresses the experiences, frustrations and joys of young learners.

The story of a child King who refuses to conform to the stiff expectations of 'King School' mirrors the pressures many KS1 children feel when asked to sit still, be quiet, and follow rules that don't always make sense to them. When the King finally rebels and leads his people into the Wild, the book opens up rich opportunities for discussing how children learn best, through movement, exploration, curiosity, and play. 

These themes link naturally to PSHE, where pupils can reflect on fairness, leadership, and how rules are created and shared. In English, the expressive illustrations and clear emotional shifts support work on prediction, character feelings and contrasting settings.

Ultimately, the book reinforces a child-centred view of learning, showing that when children feel empowered and engaged, they become confident leaders of their own ideas. It's a text that not only entertains but also helps teachers open meaningful conversations about how a classroom can be both structured and joyful.

Picture book / Reviewed by Louise Gahan, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+