“Kim’s story is absolutely enchanting, but her stupendously vivacious illustrations prove even more memorable. Amplifying details immediately stand out from the first pages” —Terry Hong, Shelf Awareness
Where’s Joon? is the highly anticipated sequel to Where’s Halmoni?, the bestselling, award-winning debut by Julie Kim. In this magical graphic novel adventure inspired by Korean folktales, readers are once again beckoned into a colorful, fantastical world filled with “jaw-dropping art” (School Library Journal).
When Joon goes missing just as Halmoni’s birthday celebration begins, Jin must once again step through a hidden portal into a fantastical world drawn from classic Korean folklore to bring him home.
Blending breathtaking artwork, humor, and heart, Where’s Joon? invites young readers back into Julie Kim’s richly imagined universe—where goblins roam, magic pots crackle, and courage grows through love and family. Perfect for families, classrooms, and readers who love immersive, multicultural graphic novels.
Why Families Love This Book
A beautiful companion to Where’s Halmoni? and a must-have addition to any collection of graphic novels for girls and boys, Where’s Joon? is a heartfelt, imaginative journey that celebrates heritage, bravery, and the magic of finding one another.
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★ "Rich in folklore, comedy, and color, a riotous and pleasurable treat."
—Kirkus Reviews, starred
★ Kim's story is absolutely enchanting, but her stupendously vivacious illustrations prove even more memorable. Amplifying details immediately stand out from the first pages: the rice maker found in virtually every Asian American home, the well-used kitchen towel hanging slightly askew, the melding of Western/Korean architectural aesthetics. Kim imbues every scene with infectious energy, inviting readers to join in the clever challenges to bring the family safely back together.
—Terry Hong, Shelf Awareness, starred
"The graphic novel picture book sequel to the bestselling “Where’s Halmoni?” by Seattle author Julie Kim came out in October with gorgeous art, humor and a story about the immigrant experience of traversing two worlds."
—Seattle Times
"A lovely and lively sequel and perfect companion to Kim’s first inventive and immersive expedition traversing two cultures."
—Booklist
"This very non-apologetic bilingual nature of the stories is healing to read."
—AsianLitforKids
"Kim infuses her novel with strikingly beautiful landscapes, warm character illustrations, and the nostalgia of childhood curiosity transports audiences straight into the storybook. Her genuine enthusiasm towards her craft is undeniable and shows in every page, making “Where’s Joon?” a celebration of love, family, and Korean-American experiences."
—The Daily
"Jaw-dropping art with vibrant colors."
—Imagination Soup
"A dynamic interweaving of full- and half-spread illustrations and paneled passages highlight Kim’s masterful execution of this bilingual tale."--Little Village Mag