The Shindig Is Coming! -- Charise Mericle Harper, Hardcover

From award-winning children's book author-illustrator Charise Mericle Harper comes a one-of-a-kind chapter book perfect for fans of the Narwhal and Jelly and Kondo & Kezumi series.

After receiving an urgent mountaintop message from the blue jay, Mouse proclaims to all the woodland creatures: "The Shindig is coming!" The entire forest is soon abuzz with everyone asking the same question: What is a shindig? Meetings are held. Assumptions are made. Honey cake is served. Finally Bear declares the answer. A shindig is a party, which is just like a meeting only fun. Problem solved! . . . Or is it?

When the blue jay finally reaches the party-prepping crew, all that pep turns to panic. The blue jay's message wasn't an invitation. It was a warning! THE SHINDIG IS COMING! Hooves, claws, and paws scatter when the mysterious forest visitors arrive at last. And opossum faints. Again.

Find out what Mouse heard, what Bear said, and what Opossum missed in The Shindig Is Coming! Charise Mericle Harper's hilarious storytelling and dynamic line art are on full display in this laugh-out-loud original chapter book for readers ages 7 and up.

Author: Charise Mericle Harper
Publisher: Union Square Kids
Published: 08/26/2025
Pages: 120
Binding Type: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781454955016
Audience: Ages 4-8

Review Citation(s):
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 06/01/2025
Publishers Weekly 05/19/2025
Kirkus Reviews 06/01/2025
School Library Journal 06/01/2025 pg. 81

About the Author

Charise Mericle Harper is the award-winning author of more than fifty children's books, including recent hits I Cannot Draw a Horse and I Cannot Draw a Bicycle. Harper's signature wit, kid-friendly illustrations, and wholly original style have made her a familiar name with caregivers, educators, and librarians looking for books that encourage imagination and showcase art education. Charise lives with her family and furry pets in Portland, Oregon.