Riley and Ollie’s First Day by L. Joerg is a sweet rhyming story that is a language beginner book for young children. This heartwarming story is based on true events and depicts the dynamic between a puppy and a baby as they discover how to be friends. Ollie didn’t know what to expect when Mom and Dad brought home a basket, but he never expected his world to change. His first time meeting Riley doesn’t go well as he can’t understand why she won’t stop crying, but he soon finds a way to bond with her. He quickly discovers that he enjoys cuddling and playing with Riley, marking the beginning of a special friendship. This lovely story is told in both English and Spanish and explores the importance of the relationship between children and pets.

The rhyming scheme creates a playful tone that children will enjoy and parents can use to maintain their attention. This style creates an almost sing-song quality to the sentences that makes it fun and easy for early readers. The story being in English and Spanish makes it an ideal learning tool for children who are being taught a new language and for those who are already bilingual. The educational elements go beyond language and vocabulary with a focus on themes of emotions, friendship, and understanding. L. Joerg successfully delivers a message about friendship with a positive outcome and a happy family ending. The story is fast-paced, and the playful illustrations by Robby Firmansyah focus on the two characters as they go from confusing interactions to a loving bond. Riley and Ollie’s First Day is a simple story that packs an emotional punch and is highly recommended for teaching children a second language.

Can a little puppy learn to love a big change? In Riley and Ollie's First Day! by L. Joerg, readers are introduced to Ollie, a happy-go-lucky puppy whose peaceful routine is suddenly turned upside down one day when his owners bring home a new baby, Riley. At first, Ollie thinks the baby is almost like a new toy for him, but he soon realizes his mistake when Riley interrupts his quiet days by being quite noisy. However, as the story unfolds, Ollie begins to see her not as a disruption but a gift, and she becomes his new playmate. The bright, cheerful illustrations by Robby Firmansyah add warmth and charm to each page. It's a sweet story about adjusting to and embracing life’s little changes.

L. Joerg’s Riley and Ollie’s First Day! is an absolutely delightful story, perfect for young readers. As an educator, I appreciated the clever way Ollie takes the place of a child who might have big feelings about changes happening in their life. Telling the story through the puppy’s eyes makes it both fresh and relatable. Ollie’s journey from confusion to acceptance is told with honesty and tenderness. The playful rhyming adds a flow that makes it an excellent read-aloud, keeping children engaged. It also opens the door to meaningful classroom discussions about emotions and adapting to change. The illustrations match the narrative flawlessly—bright, expressive, and full of heart, bringing Ollie and his world vividly to life. It’s an enjoyable and helpful book that belongs on the bookshelves of early elementary classrooms and homes.

In Riley and Ollie’s First Day! by L. Joerg, a puppy named Ollie experiences an unexpected change when his owner brings home a new baby named Riley. Initially, Ollie imagines spending a quiet, playful day with his owner, but is surprised by the arrival of the noisy infant. Disturbed by the crying and chaos, Ollie becomes overwhelmed and tries to escape the noise and confusion. As days pass, he continues to struggle with the adjustment, feeling frightened and confused by the baby’s presence. However, over time, Ollie begins to notice Riley’s gentle qualities and soft features. He grows fond of her soothing sounds and affectionate touch. Gradually, Ollie’s feelings shift, and he comes to accept Riley, ultimately forming a strong bond with her as they become close friends.

Riley and Ollie’s First Day! by L. Joerg, with illustrations by Robby Firmansyah, is a beautifully crafted bilingual children’s book presented in both English and Spanish in two complete parts, allowing full access for young readers and learners of either language. The prose has a natural, melodic flow that is really lovely and makes the story easy to follow and enjoyable to read aloud. The illustrations, done in a contemporary animation style, use comforting muted earth and jewel tones that pair harmoniously with the writing and breathe life into the story. Small moments, like Ollie misjudging a bundled basket or being startled by unexpected sounds, come about organically through the puppy’s experiences. The story embodies an affirming sense of connection that encourages repeated reading and quiet reflection, and both my youngest reader and I loved it.

Riley and Ollie's First Day! by L. Joerg is a fun kids’ book written in two languages. Baby Riley and Ollie the pup have just met, and it’s going to be the start of something special. At first, Ollie is a little put out because he knows that things are going to change. The constant crying makes his ears hurt, but eventually, he starts to see Riley as a friend. As the days pass, can the two become the best of friends?

Riley and Ollie's First Day! by L. Joerg is a lovely book based on a true story with wonderful illustrations by Robby Firmansyah. There are two books here – one in English, followed by the same story in Spanish. This makes it ideal on two counts; first, no child has to miss out if they can only read one of the languages, and second, this is a great way for kids and adults to start learning Spanish. It teaches readers about the special bond between humans and animals, especially young children and their pets, and also about the effect a new baby or pet can have on the family. It also teaches basic vocabulary in both languages and is written in rhyme, making it easy for youngsters to follow. It’s an amazing story, perfect for bedtime reading, but also for schools and libraries to reach as wide an audience as possible. Lots of children will probably identify with this story, and those whose families are expecting a new addition soon will now know exactly what to expect. A highly enjoyable story, recommended for all kids.