The Belt of Fire (Julie Black Belt #2)

Gr 1-4--In this sequel to Julie Black Belt: The Kung Fu Chronicles (Immedium, 2007), martial-arts student Julie's dominance in class is threatened when a new boy joins the group. While trying to show off their skills, both kids struggle until a visiting master teacher refocuses them on doing their individual best rather than on competing with each other. The story, while predictable, is satisfying. The inclusion of girls and women in the main story and in the subplot (a kung fu movie starring Julie's favorite female martial artist) is refreshing. The cartoon-style digital art is bright and lively. Despite a somewhat hokey concluding sentence (."..she ran toward the door and into the sunlight beyond"), children drawn to the martial arts will find this an appealing read. A suitable purchase for libraries that already own the first title in the series.--Maralita L. Freeny, District of Columbia Public Library

Copyright 2013 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

"Fast paced and engaging throughout, Julie Black Belt: The Belt of Fire will hold the attention of young readers...The character of Julie continues to give young girls a strong female protagonist with which to identify...Once again, Chin has provided young readers with a fun, informative and interesting story that should engage even the most reluctant reader while providing a rich source of information and thought-provoking concepts. Recommended." - Canadian Review of Materials magazine

"#1 Top Pick: Sports that teach self-defense are particularly good at instilling a sense of respect for self, for others, and the capability of one's own body. That's why we've put Julie Black Belt at the top of our list." - TowardTheStars

"Appealing, brightly colored illustrations bring to life this story about the values of sportsmanship and being a respectful partner or teammate, in training or any other activity. Highly recommended." - Midwest Book Review

"On her quest for her next belt, Julie learns that it's more important to look inside at your own progress than to compare yourself to someone else. She also learns the value of co-operation. The illustrations are colourful and fun, and even when the characters are just standing still, there is a feeling of action." - Pacific Wave Jiu Jitsu

"This is a great sequel to Julie Black Belt: Kung Fu Chronicles...Like the Yin and the Yang, you must work together in order to make your individual skills better. This is a very important lesson, in this day and age where everything is turned into a competition. Yes, there may be people better than you - but you can use that to make your skills better." - Squishable Baby

"My daughter was happy to see this as she too is a little ball of energy and there aren't many English books with Asian girl characters like her! The comic book style fits well with the high energy character and Chua's illustrations are great fun. We can't wait for the next Julie Black Belt book!" - Perogies & Gyoza

"What I love about both of these books is how it takes the girl to be the heroine in a typically male sport. I also love how it brings races (Brandon is white) together to have the same goal of bettering each person. The messages are so well woven into the stories. In the first book, Julie learns to not give up and keep trying even when it seems hard. In the second book, Julie and Brandon learn not to compare themselves to others, but to focus on oneself. The books themselves are written in an almost comic form, so it is a great way to expose younger children to comics and the upcoming graphic novels. I read the first book to Hazel this morning and she really liked it. She cannot wait to hear the second one." - Crafty Moms Share