About the Author

JULIE KIM is an author and illustrator living in Seattle, WA. A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, her illustrations have been featured in several children's books including My Special Space, The Mysterious Spinners, and Gloria's First Day. Kims' work has also been featured in magazines including Cricket, Cicada, Ladybuy, Babybug, Scholastic, and Mondo. Where's Halmoni? is her authorial debut.

Reviews

The genius of Kim’s book is that the two kids have started to lose their ability to speak Korean and cannot really understand what the rabbits, goblins and tigers are saying to them. Kim, then, is making a statement about the loss of culture among children of immigrants while also writing a book that returns some of that to them.--New York Times

Featured in the Seattle’s Child summer reading issue

"Julie Kim has created a visually stunning world that effortlessly infuses Korean text (Hangul) in rich, expressive art."—Cybils Awards, winner

★ "For its jaw-dropping art, encouraging bilingual attitude, and conscientious portrayal of Korean culture, Where’s Halmoni? is a perfect choice." —School Library Journal, starred

★ “A sophisticated mélange of urban households, traditional Asian landscapes, vibrant color schemes, cultural details, subtle visual jokes, [and] pitch-perfect dialogue… This book is an excellent choice for either the picture-book or graphic-novel collection.” —Booklist, starred

★ "Kim's bright, expressive illustrations are a delight...an accessible, diverse title for a broad readership." —Kirkus Reviews, starred


★ “The sibling banter is believable and delightful, [and] Kim’s panel sequences teem with energy.” —Publishers Weekly, starred

"Gentle and humorous." —Horn Book

★ "Gloriously illustrated, full of wit and whimsy, and always staying true to the traditional tales being referenced, this book deserves every starred review it has received." —School Library Journal, starred

“Go deeper into the world of Korean folklore and experience their cultural heritage in unexpected ways.” —Kid Lit Frenzy

“Young readers who adore classic fairytales will want to escape into this story again and again.” 
—Bookish

“This bright book...is fun for all ages.” —Motherhood Moment

"Where’s Halmoni? is spectacular. Julie Kim has created a book to share with young readers that truly celebrates family, playfulness, mischief and the beauty of Korean folktales." —Read it Real Good

"Infused with Korean folklore, gorgeous, action-packed illustrations, and a pair of siblings on a quest to find their grandmother, this is an absolutely delightful adventure." —This Picture Book Life