• Age: 5 to 7
• Grade: k to 2

In this full-color early chapter book series, Priya starts a party-planning business to help save the planet -- one party at a time!

Pick a book. Grow a Reader!

This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line, Branches, aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow!

Priya is excited to plan her aunty’s birthday party. She will donate the money she makes to help the cutest endangered animal on the planet, the quokka! But the party is this Saturday! With so many items on her to-do list, can she get it all done in time? Priya sends out handmade invitations, makes DIY decorations, and sets an orange-only snacks menu -- including pumpkin samosas! Will Priya’s very first party be a success?

With speech bubbles, easy-to-read text, and vibrant artwork on every page, this series is perfect for newly independent readers!

Mitali Banerjee Ruths grew up in Houston, Texas and dreamed of becoming an astronaut someday. She has worked as a babysitter, an ice cream seller, and a medical doctor. She is the author of the picture book Archie Celebrates Diwali, the Scholastic Branches early chapter book series, The Party Diaries, and the Scholastic Acorn early reader series, Inside Scouts. Mitali lives in Canada with her husband, three kids, and their dog, Tux.

Mitali Banerjee Ruths' profile page

Aaliya Jaleel is a freelance illustrator, designer, and visual development artist. She is a graduate of the University of Texas at Dallas with a BA in Arts & Technology. She is the illustrator of Maryam’s Magic: The Story of Mathematician Maryam Mirzakhani, Under My Hijab, Muslim Girls Rise, and the Scholastic Branches series, The Party Diaries.

Aaliya Jaleel's profile page

Praise for Awesome Orange Birthday (The Party Diaries #1):

"This series debut aimed at newly independent readers provides short, colorful, diary-style entries with a sweet central character. Strongly recommended." -- School Library Journal

"Priya is a well-rounded, nuanced protagonist whose enthusiasm and anxiety will resonate with readers, and the narrative, peppered with bright images, is fast-moving... A layered, upbeat tale starring a determined, relatable protagonist." -- Kirkus Reviews

"Priya’s infectious enthusiasm shines through the diary format... This series opener gets an enjoyable party started for beginning readers." -- Booklist

Praise for Archie Celebrates Diwali by Mitali Banerjee Ruths:

"This sweet picture book about sharing Diwali will ring true in many households." -- Kirkus Reviews

"A reassuring portrayal of childhood anxieties." -- Booklist