Disney’s Kilala Princess, Volume 2 by Rika Tanaka

Illustrated by Nao Kodaka Translated by Kathy Schilling 3 stars The second volume takes Kilala under the sea. She and Rei are separated and she must journey through the ocean with the help of some new friends to find him. Another fun fast-paced adventure. Adorable artwork. I’m really enjoying getting new storylines with Disney princesses…

Read More

Lonely Castle in the Mirror, Vol. 2

Story by Mizuki Tsujimura Illustrated by Tomo Taketomi Translated by Jacqueline Fung 4 stars Another fascinating volume. Within the castle, Kokoro finds relief from the anxiety and pressure she feels in the outside world through connecting with the other students. But as summer begins, tensions rise and they realize they all have their own secrets….

Read More

Disney’s Kilala Princess, Volume 1 by Rika Tanaka

Illustrated by Nao Kodaka Translated by Kathy Schilling 3 stars An adorable little adventure featuring some classic Disney princesses. Kilala dreams of being a princess, finding her true love, and living happily ever after. But in the meantime, she’s happy to support her friend Erica in the Princess Contest. That is until a strange boy…

Read More

My Little Golden Book About Pride by Kyle Lukoff

Illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan 5 stars A sweet picture book that introduces readers to pride celebrations and what the different colors on the rainbow pride flag represent (life, healing, sunlight, nature, serenity, spirit). Includes information on the Stonewall rebellion, the first Pride flag, and phrases like “coming out of the closet”. Adorable illustrations filled…

Read More

Love of the Half-Eaten Peach by Lee Wing

Illustrated by Jieting Chen 5 stars A stunning fictionalized depiction of the story of Yuan, Duke Ling of Wei, and Mi Zi Xia. This gorgeous story showcases their love in China in 500 B.C.E. Yuan is told he must strive to be perfect in his rule. But since nothing is perfect, how can he possible…

Read More

The Girl from the Other Side: Siúil, A Rún, Vol. 9

by Nagabe Translated by Adrienne Beck 5 stars Fantastic. Absolutely fantastic. Haunting artwork. Fascinating backstory. Did not want to stop reading. After the failed ceremony, Shiva remains locked away in the Inside where she is visited by a mysterious stranger who reveals some of the Inside’s history. The bulk of this volume follows the king…

Read More

Oh Deer! by Phaea Crede

Illustrated by Erica J. Chen 4 stars A delightful and humorous story about finding balance between social and alone time. Jasper the introverted Sasquatch is looking for a hobby. He thinks turnip gardening will be a great way to keep busy. What he doesn’t anticipate is the battle against the group of deer that wants…

Read More

Chang’e on the Moon (Everlasting Tales #1) by Katrina Moore

Illustrated by Cornelia Li 5 stars A gorgeous retelling of the story of Chang’e and how she became the moon goddess. The story focuses on Chang’e’s courage, kindness, and love of the Earth, and her relationship with her husband, Hou Yi. Well-told. The book wonderfully presents the tale’s action, romance, and lessons of kindness, selflessness,…

Read More

The Secret of the Jade Bangle (The Nguyen Kids #1) by Linda Trinh

Illustrated by Clayton Nguyen 4 stars A heartwarming story of family, tradition, loss, and connection. In the first book in The Nguyen Kids series, we follow Anne, the eldest Nguyen sibling. After the passing of her beloved grandmother, Anne inherits her iconic jade bracelet. But this bracelet has a secret. Follow Anne as she uncovers…

Read More