The Meanest Birthday Girl

* "A gift of a book for new readers.”  —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

It’s Dana’s birthday, so she can do what she likes. And what Dana likes to do is pinch. And call people names. And steal her classmates’ desserts. You probably know a kid like Dana. What can stop her from being so mean? In this story, it’s not what you might expect. Because sometimes, it takes a little creativity (and possibly a very large pet) to change a mean kid’s ways. Five short chapters with comical full-color illustrations offer a fresh, fun take on bullying and birthdays (and pet elephants).

 "Schneider seems to draw inspiration from both O. Henry and Edward Gorey, with deadpan, dead-on writing and meticulously inked, elegantly styled watercolors."
—Publishers Weekly, starred review
"Schneider's multimedia illustrations employ the same humorous, expressive line seen in his Geisel Award-winning Tales for Very Picky Eaters (2011), delivering a remarkable package. A gift of a book for new readers."
—Kirkus, starred review
"Schneider's watercolor, ink, and pencil illustrations have humor and sweetness."
—School Library Journal


"In five short, humorous stories, with whimsical watercolor illustrations, this beginning chapter book by a Geisel Award winner should appeal to every new reader's sense of fun, especially if they've ever had a diva moment. And really, who hasn't?"
—Booklist