Starred review from July 15, 2022
PreS-K-The young Korean girl who narrates eats kimchi every day. However, her diet is far from monotonous. She eats it fried, stewed, in a roll, on noodles, and more, displaying the versatility of this traditional dish. Kim's text is engaging, with simple words arranged into exquisitely paced rhymes that walk readers through each day of the week and include gentle repetition. Complementing the text is artwork that consists of digitally enhanced collages arranged on hanji, Korean handmade paper that here has been brightly colored. Kim shows the main character in various clothes including pajamas, school clothes, and a traditional Korean hanbok. An expressive gray bunny companion accompanies the young girl on every page. Endpapers display repeating images of the cute bunny enjoying a variety of kimchi dishes. Extensive back matter introduces readers to a variety of kimchi facts and dishes, and for those who are still reluctant to try it, ideas for adding kimchi to American staples such as hamburgers and french fries. VERDICT A delicious read-aloud and perfect recommendation for every child, any day of the week.-Chance Lee Joyner
Copyright 2022 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
October 31, 2022
Using a day-of-the-week format, this simple rhyming book displays various ways to enjoy the “crunchy, salty, and spicy” fermented food. The first spread previews dishes detailed throughout as the narrator, an East Asian–cued child in a yellow rain jacket and boots, throws their arms wide, proclaiming: “I eat KIMCHI every day./ I like KIMCHI every way!” Each day features a different aspect of the ingredient at hand, kicking off with Sunday’s survey of kimchi types and proceeding from Monday’s kimchi pancake (“round and crunchy”) to Saturday’s kimchi and ramyun (“never bland”). While the rhymes aren’t always spot-on, the layered illustrations—created using colored paper, hanji, and digital art—are eye-popping, dimensional, and delectable. For added cuteness, a gray bunny follows along as an encouraging culinary buddy. A kimchi glossary and facts conclude. Ages 5–9.