Day of the Dragon

June 1, 2004
Gr 1-3-Featuring a multicultural cast, this series entry takes on issues of cultural sensitivity. Clumsy and inept at skateboarding, Mark Goldstein begins kung fu lessons to increase his agility and confidence. He also does research on the Internet to learn more about this martial art and Chinese culture. When he discovers that his friends plan to dress up as a Chinese Dragon for Halloween, he must summon all of his courage to confront them with the possibility that their costume idea could be offensive to Chinese Americans who treasure their heritage. The plot moves quickly and will hold young readers' attention as Mark wrestles with his conscience and learns to stand up for himself. The dialogue is somewhat stilted and the descriptions of skateboard moves are a bit awkward. However, information about kung fu is smoothly integrated into the story. Nondescript black-and-white pictures appear throughout. An afterword discussing the requirements of kung fu training is appended. Although not a first purchase, this book is just right for the beginning chapter-book crowd.-Carol Durusau, Newton County Public Library, Covington, GA

Copyright 2004 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2004
In "Dragon", clumsy Mark secretly begins taking kung fu; in "Move", Charlie suspects a new friend of stealing his skateboard. This series featuring a group of extreme-sports-loving friends will draw reluctant readers with its action and easy-to-read texts. Unfortunately, the plots are thin and the characterizations two-dimensional. The black-and-white art has a dated look.

(Copyright 2004 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)