"Perfect if you want to get younger children into comics. Plus it's a positive story for female readers, an audience that is never given enough attention."Ain't It Cool News
"A high-action story that encourages deep reflection"San Francisco Chronicle.
In this long-awaited sequel, Julie wants to earn her next kung fu beltorange! However, will a new kid in class upset her plans? It's like when her movie heroine Brandy Wu seeks the Belt of Fire but must combat a mysterious opponent! Discover what lessons Julie learns!
"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
"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." - CM Magazine
"With its bright, action-packed cover in super hero style, this book will draw young readers in, especially those interested in martial arts." - Puget Sound Council for Reviewing Children's Literature
Industry Reviews
"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
"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
"I love the message in both books - never give up, the best things in life aren't easy, teamwork always works, and teachers are great. :) ... The story isn't just about martial arts, but more about being your best and working hard to get what you want. The Julie Black Belt books are a GREAT series for kids!" - This Kid Reviews Books
"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
"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
"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