Amber Brown is excited about starting second grade, but she is also a little nervous. There is a new second grade teacher this year. The old second grade teacher was really nice and used to smile at Amber in the hall. What if the new one isn't as nice? What if she doesn't like Amber? As she sets off with her new bear backpack (named Bear Lee Brown), the flapping scab on her knee (named Scabulous), and her best friend, Justin, Amber decides she's ready for whatever happens. And second grade better be ready for Amber Brown!