I Was an Eighth Grade Ninja

<p><strong>A young immigrant girl’s story and a battle between a fantastical kingdom and earth collide in this first book of the Tomo graphic novel series, where thirteen-year-old orphan Hana must leave Japan for a new life in America. Her arrival complicates not only her life, but that of a group of animal-like beings who are searching for an ancient sword.</strong></p><p>Winner of the Moonbeam Award bronze medal for comics and graphic novels</p><p>Following the death of her mother, Hana is forced to move to San Francisco to live with a grandfather she has never met. While her grandpa is kind and welcoming, and has a cute raccoon named Tomo, the only place Hana feels at home is in his dojo, where she further hones her martial arts technique. Then she meets Brittany, a girl who could become a good friend … but Brittany also has friends who want to see Hana fail at any cost.</p><p>At the same time, in the kingdom of Argon Falls, the bull-like Lord Ardath and his fox warriors search for a sword that will cement Ardath’s rule and give him ultimate control … and a special portal has led him directly to San Francisco.</p><p><em>I Was an Eighth-Grade Ninja</em>:</p><ul><li>is perfect for readers 10 and up</li><li>was created by veteran animators from Disney Animation Studios</li><li>features diverse characters, including an Asian main character</li><li>contains kid-friendly, anime-like illustrations and a relatable plot</li><li>will appeal to fans of Studio Ghibli, Jen Wang, and graphic novels</li></ul>