KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Missouriar -- In a world where new schools can feel like strange planets and lunchrooms like uncharted territory, Finding My Plate tells the touching, humorous, and oh-so-relatable story of a young boy navigating change, identity, and the universal hunt for a place to belong—especially at lunchtime.

Written by the dynamic family-author team of La'Nardo Myrick II, La'Nardo Myrick Sr., and edited by Veteran educator, Billie Barnes, and brought to life with vivid illustrations by La'Nardo Myrick II and Billie Barnes, Finding My Plate is a heartfelt journey through first impressions, new beginnings, and cafeteria culture shocks. Edited by Barnes and published by KLM Enterprises Services LLC Publishing, this story is already resonating with students, parents, and educators alike.

"Yes, ma'am, La'Nardo."
"Yes, sir, my name is La'Nardo."

From repeating his name at every introduction to discovering the cafeteria's gourmet-level salad bar and yogurt bar, young La'Nardo's voice sings with authenticity and charm. Pembroke Hill becomes more than a school—it becomes a place where community, structure, and kindness meet.

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Book Details:

• Title: Finding My Plate
• Authors: La'Nardo Myrick II, La'Nardo Myrick Sr., and Billie Barnes
• Illustrators: La'Nardo Myrick II and Billie Barnes
• Editor: Billie Barnes
• Publisher: KLM Enterprises Services LLC Publishing
• Publication Date: March 11, 2025
• Distribution: Kindle Direct Publishing, an Amazon company
• Format: Paperback and Kindle eBook
• ISBN: 9798287463977

About the Authors:

La'Nardo Myrick II is a young creative voice based in Kansas City, Missouri. This is his debut publication, and his storytelling reflects a vibrant imagination and firsthand experience.

Billie Barnes is a veteran educator and editor with over 30 years of experience at Pembroke Hill School, where she serves as a Grade Teacher. A Kansas City native, Billie holds a Bachelor of Arts from Spelman College and a Master of Science in Education from The University of Kansas. She is known for her deep commitment to student growth, equity in education, and editorial excellence in youth literature.

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About Pembroke Hill School:
Founded in 1910, The Pembroke Hill School is a private, nonsectarian, co-educational preparatory school serving students from early childhood through 12th grade. Located in the Country Club District of Kansas City, Missouri, the school emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and a strong sense of community across its two campuses.

Read more books from KLM Enterprises Services LLC Publishing at https://shorturl.at/rNADY

Finding My Plate reminds us that even the smallest moments—like choosing what's on your tray—can help shape who you are and where you belong.