Amanda Panda Quits Kindergarten

Kindergarten has never been funnier with the launch of this new, strong-willed character, in the style of Ladybug Girl, Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse, and Bread and Jam for Frances.

Amanda Panda has BIG ideas for her first day of school. But when things don't go according to plan, and when a pesky girl in a pink bow decides to be her best friend, she walks out on kindergarten and joins her brother in second grade. It takes an unlikely partner to fix Amanda's terrible day--and to teach her about friendship, tolerance, and how to cope with life's ups and downs.

Amanda Panda perfectly captures the spirit, motivations, and humor of a headstrong five-year-old girl--and will be sure to soothe back-to-school jitters.

"a sweet story about the power of kindness and getting past first impressions."--The Washington Post

"Empathy and kindness are just as important as ABCs and 123s, and Amanda gives readers a good lesson."--Kirkus

"Filled with droll humor that begs to be read aloud, this is an excellent back-to-school purchase and a great fit for storytime."--School Library Journal

"With strong dialogue and well-imagined details of wardrobe and play, Ransom writes an original story around the familiar situation: the beginning of school. . . . This wryly amusing picture book offers a fresh take on an old theme."--Booklist

"The lesson makes an impact without preaching, and kids are likely to want to revisit this one, especially as the first day of school approaches."--Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"Bright, fresh illustrations fill the pages of this adorable book about disappointment, friendship, and kindness."--ReadBrightly.com

CANDICE RANSOM only ever wanted to be a children’s book writer. She is the author of over 125 books for kids and young adults, including Amanda Panda Quits Kindergarten, and teaches in the children’s literature program at Hollins University. Candice lives in Fredericksburg, Virginia, with her husband and her cats, Faulkner and Edison. Visit her at www.candiceransom.com.

CHRISTINE GROVE is the illustrator of Amanda Panda Quits Kindergarten, Esme’s Egg, and Maddie the Mitzvah Clown. Christine especially enjoys creating children’s book characters. (After a bit of sketching they take on a life of their own and are kind enough to let her get to know them.) She lives near Atlanta, surrounded by her treasured collection of Derwent 2H graphic pencils.