[2][3][4][5][6][7][8] Anica Mrose Rissi was born in Maine and grew up on the island of Deer Isle, where she graduated from the local public school system.
[18] Kirkus called the first book in the series, Anna, Banana, and the Friendship Split (Simon & Schuster, 2015), "a realistic story for sensitive kids.
[22] In a starred review, Publishers Weekly said, "Rissi's very funny text is a model of understatement and restraint...allowing OHora to make the most of the story's physical comedy in thickly painted scenes spiked with neon orange.
'), with his giant-headed, candy-colored people, have over-the-top sensibilities that mesh fantastically" and USA Today called it "A guaranteed chuckle for any grown-up who’s ever had to take care of the class 'pet' for the weekend.
[31] In a starred review, BookPage called the book a "tender, funny epistolary tale"[32] and noted that "With clear affection, author Anica Mrose Rissi (best known for her Anna, Banana series) captures the determination and obstinacy of children and the steady, unwavering love of a parent.
"[36] Publishers Weekly said of the "20 brief offerings" in the collection, "some stories succeed better than others," but concluded "the sheer variety of creepy concepts, unsettling moments interspersed with humor, and gotcha twists will appeal to younger middle grade readers who are ready for a gateway into horror fiction—and a book to read around the campfire.
"[37] In a starred review, School Library Journal said the collection has "all the makings of a modern-day classic" and "shows promise of being read and retold again and again by this generation’s thrill-seekers.
[39][40] Wishing Season (HarperCollins, 2023) is a "beautifully written,"[41][42] "achingly sad but also hopeful story set on a small Maine island,"[43] in which "eleven-year-old Lily Neff struggles to accept the death of her twin brother, Anders.