• Age: 3 to 8
• Grade: p to 3

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

Oliver Chin's profile page

CHARLENE CHUA a illustré de nombreux livres pour les enfants de tous les âges. Ses illustrations lui ont valu de nombreuses récompenses et les livres qu’elle a illustrés ont été mis en nomination pour USBBY Outstanding International Books, OLA Best Bets, une récompense Shining Willow, et Kirkus Best books. Son premier livre Hug? a été publié en 2020. Elle vit à Hamilton avec son époux.

CHARLENE CHUA has illustrated more than a dozen books, including Amy Wu and the Perfect Bao, The Pencil, and Hug?, and her work has been nominated for the Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Award, the Forest of Reading Awards, the Shining Willow Award, and the First Nation Communities READ Award. Charlene lives in Hamilton, Ontario.

Charlene Chua's profile page

"Appealing, brightly colored illustrations bring to life this story about the values of sportsmanship and being a respectful partner or teammate, in training or any other activity. Highly recommended." - Midwest Book Review

"Fast paced and engaging throughout, Julie Black Belt: The Belt of Fire will hold the attention of young readers...The character of Julie continues to give young girls a strong female protagonist with which to identify...Once again, Chin has provided young readers with a fun, informative and interesting story that should engage even the most reluctant reader while providing a rich source of information and thought-provoking concepts. Recommended." - Canadian Review of Materials magazine

"What I love about both of these books is how it takes the girl to be the heroine in a typically male sport. I also love how it brings races (Brandon is white) together to have the same goal of bettering each person. The messages are so well woven into the stories. In the first book, Julie learns to not give up and keep trying even when it seems hard. In the second book, Julie and Brandon learn not to compare themselves to others, but to focus on oneself. The books themselves are written in an almost comic form, so it is a great way to expose younger children to comics and the upcoming graphic novels. I read the first book to Hazel this morning and she really liked it. She cannot wait to hear the second one." - Crafty Moms Share

"I love the message in both books – never give up, the best things in life aren’t easy, teamwork always works, and teachers are great. :) ... The story isn’t just about martial arts, but more about being your best and working hard to get what you want. The Julie Black Belt books are a GREAT series for kids!" - This Kid Reviews Books

"This is a great sequel to Julie Black Belt: Kung Fu Chronicles...Like the Yin and the Yang, you must work together in order to make your individual skills better. This is a very important lesson, in this day and age where everything is turned into a competition. Yes, there may be people better than you, but you can use that to make your skills better." - Squishable Baby

"My daughter was happy to see this as she too is a little ball of energy and there aren't many English books with Asian girl characters like her! The comic book style fits well with the high energy character and Chua's illustrations are great fun. We can't wait for the next Julie Black Belt book!" - Perogies & Gyoza

"On her quest for her next belt, Julie learns that it's more important to look inside at your own progress than to compare yourself to someone else. She also learns the value of co-operation. The illustrations are colourful and fun, and even when the characters are just standing still, there is a feeling of action." - Pacific Wave Jiu Jitsu

"#1 Top Pick: Sports that teach self-defense are particularly good at instilling a sense of respect for self, for others, and the capability of one’s own body. That’s why we’ve put Julie Black Belt at the top of our list." - TowardTheStars