Books in Julie Black Belt series

Can Julie learn kung fu and get her black belt? Real kid power is more inspirational than Kung Fu Panda or The Karate Kid!When Julie takes a kung fu class, she thinks getting a black belt will be easy. But her bold teacher says guess again! Since practice takes patience, Julie wonders, what would her movie idol Brandy Wu do?Can Julie take her lessons to heart, and exercise both her mind and body? Then will she develop the self-confidence and discipline necessary to take the Yellow belt test and show her brother, parents, and heroine the true "spirit” of this sport?Children and parents identify with Julie’s attitude and journey. She is a modern, refreshing character who leads a diverse class and displays authentic girl power. This is an engaging introduction of martial arts to young children who enroll in after school programs. Inspired by a real girl in a taekwondo class, this story’s lessons are applicable to any martial art, such as karate, ju-jitsu, aikido, judo, and wrestling. Like real youngsters, Julie learns by doing. Teachers appreciate how the story promotes respect, conflict resolution, and self-defense, which in turn improves focus and concentration. Training builds confidence and social skills and improves physical fitness (coordination, balance, posture). Artist Charlene Chua’s vibrant illustrations capture Julie’s high-flying action and her evolving commitment with dynamic energy. The adventures continue in Julie Black Belt: The Belt of Fire!“Practice makes perfect. That’s what Julie learns in her beginning kung fu class along with lessons about dedication and determination. (She thinks getting a black belt will be a snap.)...a high-action story that encourages deep reflection despite the action movie look.”- San Francisco Chronicle

Our energetic heroine Julie aims for her next martial arts rank - The Belt of Fire! But will a new student get in her way? This long-awaited sequel to Julie Black Belt: The Kung Fu Chronicles picks up as Julie proudly wears her yellow belt and is eager to attain her next rank: orange! Still inspired by Brandy Wu, an action movie star, Julie now meets a new student in her class...but is he better than her? Can Julie learn to improve her abilities while becoming a gracious partner, and ultimately earning her own Belt of Fire?It's like when her heroine Brandy Wu in a movie seeks a treasure but must combat a mysterious opponent! Another experienced teacher gives Julie valuable advice, but is Julie brave enough to make this wisdom her own? Artist Charlene Chua’s colorful, action-packed illustrations make Julie’s quest one that any aspiring martial arts practitioner, as well as their parents and instructors, will enjoy.Children and parents identify with this spunky female star who is willing to give all she’s got. Julie is a fan favorite and young readers make her vivid story their own. Again this is an engaging introduction of martial arts to young children who enroll in after school programs. Inspired by a real girl in a taekwondo class, this story’s lessons are applicable to any martial art, such as karate, ju-jitsu, aikido, judo, and wrestling. Kung fu means a skill achieved through consistent dedication. But Julie discovers that knowing the correct moves isn’t the most important thing. Teachers appreciate how the story promotes respect, conflict resolution, and self-defense, which in turn improves focus and concentration. Training builds confidence and social skills and improves physical fitness (coordination, balance, posture). Artist Charlene Chua’s vibrant drawings capture Julie’s high-flying action with dynamism and verve. "With its bright, action-packed cover in super hero style, this book will draw young readers in, especially those interested in martial arts... Girls, especially, may welcome a female protagonist in a kung fu book, but primary boys will most likely enjoy this story as well." - Puget Sound Council for Reviewing Children’s Literature/Media