Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
The Secret of the Jade Bangle is an engaging and empowering illustrated chapter book for grade school age readers by Linda Trinh and the first book in the Nguyen Kids series. Due out 18th Oct 2022 from Annick Press, it's 128 pages and will be available in hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats.
This is such a fun and respectfully written book which will engage, entertain, and inform young readers. Despite the action filled plot (Anne really loves ballet but just wants to not be treated differently by her ballet teacher and the other students), the author manages to delve into deeper and meaningful themes such as integration and isolation, respect for culture, honesty, integrity, dealing constructively with racism, activism, and family in an age-appropriate manner.
The art by Clayton Nguyen is expressive and colorful and is full of small details which invite readers to take a closer look and really think about the concepts being expressed.
The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 1 hour 1 minute and is read by the author herself. She has a nicely modulated voice and reads very well (not always the case with author narrators). Interestingly, since this is an illustrated book, much of the read provides descriptions of the illustrations; what's happening on page, what the characters are holding or wearing, etc. It adds a level of enjoyment to the read and for beginning readers, having the audiobook to accompany the print book will definitely add a layer of enjoyment to the read.
Five stars. Representation is important for *everyone*. Highly recommended for public and school library acquisition, home library use, reading circles and similar. This is a great kids book for -all- kids whatever their ethnicity, background, or sex.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.