Lyla Lee

Mindy is excited to celebrate the Lunar New Year! Even though it's the first one without her mom, Mindy is determined to enjoy the day. She decides to make traditional Korean New Year food, a rice cake soup that's her favorite. But things aren't going quite to plan, and the celebration doesn't feel the same as it did before.

All Mindy Kim has ever wanted is a puppy of her very own. After all, having all the toy dog plushies in the world isn't quite the same thing as a real one! She wants a dog to take on walks, teach tricks, and cuddle with. She knows she has what it takes to be the perfect pet owner, and she thinks a dog would be a perfect gift for her upcoming birthday. But her dad isn't so sure she's ready for the big responsibility. Can Mindy prove to her dad that...

It's time to pick a class president, and Mindy really wants to win--and she's basing her entire campaign on snacks and being kind, so how could she NOT be chosen? But here is one big thing that Mindy is not sure she can do--make a speech to her class about why she would be the best pick for president. Can Mindy face her fears and show the class--and herself--that she can be the best class president ever?--

This first book in a sparkling middle grade series giving a fresh take on The Baby-Sitters Club follows a young Korean American girl who starts a business with her best friends to support her artistic dreams.
Jiyoung "Gigi" Shin loves to create, from her zany outfits to self-executed haircuts. She dreams of becoming an artist and doodles every chance she gets—at school instead of taking notes, in choir instead of singing, and at home...

"Mindy Kim can't wait to learn how to swim with her best friend, Sally! But during her first swim lesson, Mindy isn't so sure she can keep up. With a little help from Sally and Theodore the Mutt, can Mindy learn how to make a splash?"--Provided by publisher.