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LET'S GO TO TAEKWONDO! by Aram Kim

LET'S GO TO TAEKWONDO!

A Story About Persistence, Bravery, and Breaking Boards

by Aram Kim ; illustrated by Aram Kim

Pub Date: April 6th, 2020
ISBN: 978-0-8234-4360-4
Publisher: Holiday House

Helping somebody else becomes key to one kitten’s overcoming her own obstacles.

Yoomi, an anthropomorphic Korean American cat, is working toward a yellow belt in the Korean martial art of taekwondo. The only problem is the test requires punching through a wooden board. She watches her classmates break through their own boards, and they encourage her, but Yoomi is paralyzed by the thought of hurting her hand and cannot bring herself to do it. Her fears are not left at the dojang. After fleeing evil boards in her nightmares, she avoids several days of practice, making excuses to her grandma until she declares she is quitting the sport. In reply, her grandma declares that she is quitting her computer. Shocked by her grandma’s revelation, Yoomi coaches her grandma until she successfully video chats with her sister in Korea. And after coaching grandma, Yoomi uses her newfound tools to visualize her goal and makes another attempt for the coveted belt. Diversity is indicated with a mix of cultural names and animals within the community. Korean words and names are seamlessly incorporated into the simple, winning narrative. In this follow-up to No Kimchi for Me (2017), Kim utilizes her signature bold cartoon style, developing distinct characters with touches of humor. Backmatter includes explanations of taekwondo, symbols of Korean culture, and a glossary.

A sweet tale of shared perseverance that bursts with color, culture, and energy.

(Picture book. 3-7)