About the Author

Stephanie Calmenson is the author of many acclaimed books for children. They have been called "marvelous" (Publishers Weekly), "lyrical" (School Library Journal), and "sweet, funny, and right on the mark" (ALA Booklist). Her books include Dinner at the Panda Palace, a PBS Storytime Book; Welcome, Baby! Baby Rhymes for Baby Times; Good for You! Toddler Rhymes for Toddler Times; and Kindergarten Kids: Riddles, Rebuses, Wiggles, Giggles, and More!

Reviews

"This sprightly story in rhyme also incorporates a counting lesson [and] closes on a warm, satisfying note." -- ALA Booklist"Unforced, funny quatrains are reinforced with hilarious illustrations full of perfect details." -- School Library Journal"Bouncy, rhyming verse and an innovative cast of characters give this counting book zip. Only after many rereadings will little ones get their fill." -- Publishers Weekly"Everyone happily feasts on Dinner at the Panda Palace." -- The Horn Book

PreS-Gr 2-- As Mr. Panda graciously greets guests arriving at his restaurant, he also invites readers to enjoy a rollicking counting rhyme. A peanut-selling elephant shows up first, then two carsick lions, three pigs (carrying their building materials and pursued by a slavering wolf), and on through assorted critters until ten chickens bring seating to capacity. When a tiny mouse asks to come in, Mr. Panda hastily makes room because, ``No matter how many,/ No matter how few,/ There will always be room/ At the Palace for you!'' Unforced, funny quatrains are reinforced with hilarious illustrations full of perfect details. The party of penguins is served fish, five monkeys have bananas, the giraffes (who had been painting rooftops) nibble leaves and twigs, peacocks dine on snails. And, as the guests depart carrying doggie bags, and the alligator waiters sponge tables, readers will almost be able to hear Mr. Panda say, ``Whew!'' as he hangs the closed sign. Perfect company for Hogrogian's Always Room for One More (Holt, 1965) and De Regniers's May I Bring a Friend (Atheneum, 1964). --Virginia Opocensky, formerly at Lincoln City Libraries, NB

"This sprightly story in rhyme also incorporates a counting lesson [and] closes on a warm, satisfying note." -- ALA Booklist"Unforced, funny quatrains are reinforced with hilarious illustrations full of perfect details." -- School Library Journal"Bouncy, rhyming verse and an innovative cast of characters give this counting book zip. Only after many rereadings will little ones get their fill." -- Publishers Weekly"Everyone happily feasts on Dinner at the Panda Palace." -- The Horn Book