Illustrator: Dung Ho
Series: Mindy Kim #1
Published by Aladdin on January 14, 2020
Genres: Children's Book, Contemporary
Pages: 96
Format: Hardcover
Source: Publisher
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
At seven and a half years old, Mindy Kim thinks she’s old enough to have her own puppy, but her dad tells her they need time. Following her mom’s death, the two have just moved from California to Florida. Mindy feels out of place at her new school, where no one looks like her, the students make fun of her lunch, and her teacher isn’t sensitive to her situation, culturally or as the new kid. She starts a snack business to fulfill her dreams of making friends, buying a puppy, and cheering up her dad.
Mindy Kim and the Yummy Seaweed Business is a super cute book. Children can relate to Mindy’s fears as the new kid and her desire to be liked. This book portrays real conflicts between children and how they can resolve their differences through open and honest conversation (which includes admitting when you’re wrong). While Mindy acts on her own at times, out of consideration for her dad’s grief, her dad remains a strong presence in her life. He supports her as best he can, but he also admonishes her when necessary. Interwoven throughout this book are references to elements of Korean culture, such as the food, market, and honorifics. Adorable illustrations bring Mindy’s story to life.
From an Asian-American perspective, this is a book that I would have loved to read as a kid. While I come from a Chinese-American background, I can relate to aspects of Mindy’s life. I’ve been the new kid, and I’ve had kids make derogatory comments on my food. My family made efforts to connect with the local Chinese community after each move, and I referred to my elders with Chinese honorifics.
Rated G
- Mindy’s mom died after a long illness (mentioned)
- Other kids make fun of Mindy’s food
Bias Notes
As an Asian writer who wants to support other Asian writers, I’m predisposed to liking books that feature Asian characters and are written by Asian authors.
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