Mindy Kim is one of my favorite chapter book series. Mindy is a relatable protagonist. The stories are cute, and they’re accompanied by equally cute illustrations which bring Mindy’s story to life. I also love the colorful covers. They look beautiful lined up together!
Mindy Kim and the Birthday Puppy by Lyla Lee
Illustrator: Dung Ho
Series: Mindy Kim #3
Published by Aladdin on June 9, 2020
Genres: Contemporary, Chapter Book
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.
All Mindy Kim wants is a puppy of her own. Now that she is eight years old, she believes that she is grown-up and responsible enough for one. To her delight, her dad gives her a cute puppy, who she names Theodore. But she quickly learns that taking care of a puppy involves a lot of work: among other things, she needs to bathe him, house-train him, and teach him to walk on a leash. Her goal: to prove to her dad that she can handle the new responsibility and provide Theodore the loving home he deserves.
Since the book one, Mindy has been dreaming about a puppy of her own. So, it was a joy to see her wish come true. As a dog lover, I could relate to the hope and joy of getting my first dog. Taking care of a puppy is a lot of work, and I respect Mindy’s dedication to training Theodore. Fortunately, her babysitter, Eunice, has experience with dogs (she has an adorable Maltese named Oliver) and helps Mindy with the training process. Theodore’s experiences adjusting to a new home parallels Mindy’s experiences as a new kid (from book one). As Mindy helps Theodore adjust, and as she shares about Theodore with her class, it becomes clear how Mindy has made a place for herself in Florida. Mindy has grown: she is no longer the new kid or a girl dreaming of a puppy of her own. Now, she has friends, and her family has grown to include Theodore.
This book captures the hard work that goes into taking care of a puppy and the joys that make it worthwhile.
Mindy Kim, Class President by Lyla Lee
Illustrator: Dung Ho
Series: Mindy Kim #4
Published by Aladdin on September 15, 2020
Genres: Contemporary, Chapter Book
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.
Mindy is eight years old and now in third grade. Third grade comes with new responsibilities, like more homework and class duties. Like being class president. With election season coming up for the adults, it’s also time to pick a class president. Mindy is scared to run because candidates need to present a speech to the class, and public speaking makes her feel queasy. But Sally and Dad believe in her, so she decides to give it a try. After brainstorming with her Dad, she decides to base her platform on friendship, kindness, and snacks.
Mindy’s story teaches readers about standing up to their fears. Although Mindy lacks confidence in public speaking, her dad encourages her with a growth mindset, telling her that he’s proud of the work she puts into her campaign regardless of whether she wins or loses. And he teaches her that she can do the things she promises in her platform even if she loses. Her friend, Sally, and her babysitter, Eunice, and Eunice’s mom also encourage her and give her advice along the way. Along with Mindy, readers will learn what a platform is and that each vote matters. Mindy learns also the value of her work in and of itself, respect for her fellow campaigners (except for a mean kid), and the importance of friendship.
Mindy Kim and the Trip to Korea by Lyla Lee
Illustrator: Dung Ho
Series: Mindy Kim #5
Published by Aladdin on June 8, 2021
Genres: Contemporary, Chapter Book
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.
Mindy Kim is nine years old and visiting Korea for the first time! Her mom and dad were both born in South Korea, but she was born in San Francisco. So, she’s only ever seen her extended family through a screen. Her dad’s girlfriend, Julie, is also going to meet the family for the first time.
I’m not Korean, nor have I been to Korea. But like Mindy, I’m American-born to immigrant parents. I can relate to wishing that I spoke more of my family’s language, long international flights, the struggle to find topics to talk about with cousins who speak little English, love of good food, and grandparents who spoiled me. It was heart-warming to see Mindy spend time with her family, learn about her culture, and make friends with her cousins.
Another wonderful moment in the book is when Mindy and Julie decide to make a traditional Korean meal to thank Mindy’s family for hosting them. This is the first time that the two do something with just the two of them. It was fun to see them bond over food and the desire to do something for Mindy’s family.
Let’s Chat
Have you read the Mindy Kim books or have plans to read them?
What are your thoughts?
Leave a Reply