annieb123's Review of The Power of the Pearl Earrings (Nguyen Kids, #2)

by Linda Trinh

A charming early chapter book series that explores Vietnamese culture and identity through the eyes of the Nguyen siblings, with elements of the supernatural, spirituality, and social justice woven in.

I touch my earrings and feel a rush of wind. I can almost hear Grandma Nội’s laughter through them.

Spontaneous and energetic Liz, the middle Nguyen sibling, grew up hearing stories from her Grandma Nội about the fantastically fierce Trung Sisters, freedom fighters in ancient Vietnam. And with a new school year about to start, Liz is determined that her taekwondo classes will prove she is just as important and brave as the famous warriors. That is, until the new boy at school, Michael, threatens her plans by turning her best friend against her, telling her the things she can’t do because she’s a girl. Struggling with both her friendships and her place in her family, Liz finds help where she least expects it—in the pearl earrings her Grandma Nội left her as a gift, reminding her of her Vietnamese heritage. Armed with the earrings’ mysterious power, Liz decides to show Michael exactly what girls are capable of.

Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

The Power of the Pearl Earrings is an engaging and empowering illustrated chapter book for grade school age readers by Linda Trinh and is the second 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 (protagonist Liz really wants to do martial arts instead of ballet), the author manages to delve into deeper and meaningful themes such as integration and isolation, respect for culture, honesty, integrity, dealing constructively with potentially unwitting 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 a closer look.

Five stars. Representation is important for *everyone*. Highly recommended for public and school library acquisition, home library use, reading circles and similar.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

The Power of the Pearl Earrings (Nguyen Kids, #2)

by Linda Trinh

Reviewed by annieb123 on May 17, 2022

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