  | Pandamonium! Author: Bailey, Annie | |
| Price: $23.28 | ||
Summary:
All the pandas are together for a reunion, so naturally it's time to take a family photo. But with each disastrous attempt, the littlest pandas feel more and more wiggly and giggly. Will they get the perfect picture, or will it be utter pandamonium?!
| Illustrator: | Wong, Bonnie |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (04/15/26)
School Library Journal (05/02/26)
Full Text Reviews:
Publishers Weekly - 04/13/2026 In Bailey and Wong’s boisterous picture book, it’s absolute "pandamonium" when a gathering of giant and red pandas attempt to snap a group pic at an annual reunion. Bouncy rhymes establish a high-energy tone: "Ties and hair bows all precise.// Hurry! While we still look nice!" Once the crew get into position, further chaos ensues as "Pandas start to fiddle, giggle,/ can’t sit still, they’ve got to wiggle!" Multiple pose attempts yield less than ideal shots involving poking, nose-picking, and "Panda bum?!" After the camera is set aside, the "roly-poly" ensemble let loose, culminating in a "panda pile"-and, at last, an impromptu but successful selfie. Candy-colored digital cartoons convey the pandas’ antics with expressive humor across this congenial and realistic snapshot of a kid-filled family gathering. Panda trivia concludes. Ages 2-5. (June) - Copyright 2026 Publishers Weekly used with permission.
School Library Journal - 05/02/2026 PreS-Gr 1—The exclamation point in the title says it all; there is a lot of excitement and joy packed into this book. Pandas and red pandas gather for a family picture day, but can all the little ones keep their wiggles at bay while they take the perfect picture? Despite the fantastical scenario, the story captures the human problem of getting the right photo. The anthropomorphized pandas' uniquely human expressions, nose picking, and mannerisms are memorable and will delight young readers. Illustrations show attention to detail; pandas of various ages wear different clothing choices, such as glasses, button-downs, polos, dresses, bows, and even a pacifier. The composition of the pages makes it feel as if readers are holding a photo during some of the best parts of the story. The panned-out view of the pandas contrasts with some of the gentler close-ups of mischief and provides variety between pages, making them feel full of movement. The text is rhythmic and full of alliteration, making it pleasant to read aloud. The plot is simple but sweet. VERDICT This quick read with cute animals will prompt high circulation. Pair with Jennifer Frank's The Worm Family Has Its Picture Taken for a more energetic take on the perennial theme.—Veronika Parrone - Copyright 2026 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
