Krista Kim-Bap by Angela Ahn, published by Second Story Press is a fabulous little middle grade novel. 

Krista and her best friend Jason have been friends since preschool.  Now they are in fifth grade and things begin to change.  First, Krista starts developing a new friendship with some of the girls while neglecting her best friend.  She also becomes the class defacto ”Korean Ambassador” for Heritage Month at her school.  At a time when so much begins to change, how does Krista manage?

I really loved this story from start to finish.  From Krista’s grandmother Mrs. Kim, who totally reminded me of Mrs. Kim from Gilmour Girls, to Krista herself, it is a real story of self-discovery, honouring traditions and navigating friendships.  There are some really important lessons to be learned through reading Krista’s story.  How to manage friendships and which friendships are reciprocal and genuine is at the forefront of this book.  It really is about Krista realizing what true friendship looks like and how to cultivate new friendships while honouring those who have always been tried and true.

Also, there is the theme of being true to yourself and owning your truth, realizing that we are all individuals and all have different strengths, different likes, different tastes.  Individuality can be tough for children as they enter their tweens and teens and having a story available to relate to can provide comfort.