I was disappointed in this product. First, I feel the quality was not typical LLBean quality. Second, the demensions on line are larger than the actual backpack. My second grade daughter does not have enough room for her books, lunch, snowpants and shoes. On library day, we need an extra bag because everything doe not fit in the backpack. It would be nicer to have a separate compartment for shoes and wet items. The front compartment is too small for such items. Lastly, I was sorry I got her a backpack without a water bottle side pocket. The small compartment works, but the water bottle tips and is hard to get to. I would not recommend this backpack.
This has been a great backpack this year for my daughter. Not too big, but big enough to haul books. lunchbox, and the assorted detritus of a first grader.
The only thing that would make this better would be if they added mess pockets on the side (external) to carry water bottles.
At first, I ordered the junior original pack for my child starting kindergarten, based on age recommendations. But at the last minute, I discovered that we were asked to get standard-size packs, so I did a last-minute exchange (even though the item was personalized), thanks to LLB's excellent customer service. It arrived just in time and was perfect! It looks great and is lightweight and well-made. And no characters that my child will tire of or outgrow. Love it!
I bought this book bag for both of my kids. Boy and girl and we are working on using them now for 3 years, we have not had one problem. I would say that this bag is well worth the money. I would suggest getting their initials on it. When we bought these bags we were the only one, 3 years later there are 3 in my daughter class that look the same rather than my daughter has her initials on it.
