The Author

LaPanda (aka Panda) is a contemporary and literary fiction author who writes with heart, grit, and a sharp eye for real-life complexities. Born in Chicago, she grew up devouring books and scribbling stories and plays—until life took a different turn. At 19, she became a mother and put her writing dreams on hold to raise her daughters. But the dream never left.

Years later, during maternity leave with her second daughter, Panda picked up the pen again, determined to self-publish and see her name on a book cover. In 2017, she released her first book—an imperfect but meaningful start to her literary journey. After two decades in Kansas City, she returned to Chicago with a renewed passion and a clear mission: to grow as a writer and make her mark.

With no formal training, Panda has taught herself the craft through relentless research, podcast deep-dives, and trial and error. She’s now the self-published author of The Other Side, Snow Awakens, and Beast or Beauty. When she’s not writing, she works full-time in the billing department of a medical office, watches movies for creative inspiration, and rewatches The Walking Dead and Sons of Anarchy more times than she cares to admit.

Panda’s dream? Hit the New York Times Bestseller list and see her books on the big screen. And she’s just getting started.