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Ruby Lu #1
Ruby Lu, Brave and True by Lenore Look
Most days the best thing about being Ruby is everything. Like when she's the star of her own backyard magic show. Or when she gives a talk at the school safety assembly on the benefits of reflective tape. Or when she rides the No. 3 bus all the way to Chinatown to visit GungGung and PohPoh. And then there are the days when it's very hard to be Ruby. Like when her mom suggests Chinese school on Saturdays. Or when her little brother, Oscar, spills all of Ruby's best magician secrets. Or when her parents don't think she's old enough to drive! Come along with Ruby Lu in her chapter-book debut -- which even includes a flip book of a magic trick -- and share the good and the not-so-good days with an (almost) eight-year-old Asian-American kid.
Paperback
First published January 1, 2004
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1049 people want to read
About the author
Lenore Look
33 books114 followersI first began making picture books in kindergarten because my other career option at the time was stealing. But a life of crime requires practice and patience, neither of which I had, so I settled into industry, making what I coveted but what my parents could not afford to buy: beautiful books like the ones my teacher read to us in school.
Publishing was no problem in those days, not like it is now. By first-grade, I was my own publisher, making multiple copies of my books by hand. As for fame and fortune, I took care of that, too–I taught my brothers and the neighborhood kids how to wait in line for autographed copies, and I charged them 25 cents a book (an enviable paperback royalty today!), but also accepted candy.
By third grade, I had abandoned the literary scene. My parents had bought an old piano and signed me up for lessons and, thus, I began dreaming of becoming a world-famous concert pianist.
Then I came across a book on Maria Tallchief, and became a ballerina, just like that. I weighed only 40 pounds and could leap and pirouette all day without stopping. It was a lot easier than becoming a pianist.
Then I read a book about a surgeon, and one about a veterinarian, and another about a great tennis player . . . and I found myself wanting to become whatever I’d last read.
Eventually I grew up and became a newspaper reporter. It was the perfect job for me. I got paid to do the two things I loved most: writing and being curious. Working as a reporter taught me how to talk to people, how to find the story behind the story, and how to tell a story in a way that keeps a reader reading. I learned to listen to the way people talk. I learned to be precise and concise in my own choice of words. Best of all, the more I wrote, the more I was filled with a sense of wonder. I loved writing not only about what happens to people, but also about what happens inside of them, which is what writing for children is all about, but I didn’t yet know it.
It wasn’t until I became a mother and began reading children’s books again that I felt what the Chinese call yun fuen, a continuing of work begun in past lives. I had long forgotten my early foray into picture books, the thread I’d dropped in kindergarten, a thin rig, like the one a spider would use in rising. I had journeyed nearly 30 years down through space by then, unaware of my silken strand. Then one afternoon, with my two young children clamoring for something to do, I showed them how to fold paper into a book . . . picked up some crayons and a pen, and then . . . felt myself rising . . . returning to that place where I began, that brief age in which I had so many talents, and leapt and pirouetted into the sun, and could not stop.
Publishing was no problem in those days, not like it is now. By first-grade, I was my own publisher, making multiple copies of my books by hand. As for fame and fortune, I took care of that, too–I taught my brothers and the neighborhood kids how to wait in line for autographed copies, and I charged them 25 cents a book (an enviable paperback royalty today!), but also accepted candy.
By third grade, I had abandoned the literary scene. My parents had bought an old piano and signed me up for lessons and, thus, I began dreaming of becoming a world-famous concert pianist.
Then I came across a book on Maria Tallchief, and became a ballerina, just like that. I weighed only 40 pounds and could leap and pirouette all day without stopping. It was a lot easier than becoming a pianist.
Then I read a book about a surgeon, and one about a veterinarian, and another about a great tennis player . . . and I found myself wanting to become whatever I’d last read.
Eventually I grew up and became a newspaper reporter. It was the perfect job for me. I got paid to do the two things I loved most: writing and being curious. Working as a reporter taught me how to talk to people, how to find the story behind the story, and how to tell a story in a way that keeps a reader reading. I learned to listen to the way people talk. I learned to be precise and concise in my own choice of words. Best of all, the more I wrote, the more I was filled with a sense of wonder. I loved writing not only about what happens to people, but also about what happens inside of them, which is what writing for children is all about, but I didn’t yet know it.
It wasn’t until I became a mother and began reading children’s books again that I felt what the Chinese call yun fuen, a continuing of work begun in past lives. I had long forgotten my early foray into picture books, the thread I’d dropped in kindergarten, a thin rig, like the one a spider would use in rising. I had journeyed nearly 30 years down through space by then, unaware of my silken strand. Then one afternoon, with my two young children clamoring for something to do, I showed them how to fold paper into a book . . . picked up some crayons and a pen, and then . . . felt myself rising . . . returning to that place where I began, that brief age in which I had so many talents, and leapt and pirouetted into the sun, and could not stop.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
May 2, 2012
I'm always on the lookout for special children’s books and was delighted to discover the Ruby Lu series. She’s the most entertaining character I've come across since Arnold Lobel's Frog and Toad Are Friends, embodying everything most lovable in almost-eight-year-olds: enthusiasm, determination, observation, adventure and imagination, and she possesses a charming combination of cheeky daring and loving respect.
The humorous stories can be read over and over again, and the scratchy, expressive illustrations make you laugh as you recognise the moods and motives of all vibrant young personalities. www.GoodReadingGuide.com
The humorous stories can be read over and over again, and the scratchy, expressive illustrations make you laugh as you recognise the moods and motives of all vibrant young personalities. www.GoodReadingGuide.com
January 18, 2019
Ruby Lu is almost eight. She falls in and out of love with her baby brother Oscar. When he starts giving away the secrets of her magic tricks, she has to ban him from her shows. Each chapter shows us a new aspect of Ruby Lu's life. I am certain many early readers will enjoy getting to know her. Love the illustrations!
October 9, 2017
Lots of little episodes in the life of a usually very happy second-grader. Not sure where it takes place, someplace with fog and a Chinatown but not California. I laughed, I went "aww," but I never cried. I want more in the series, and more by the author.
June 8, 2017
I discovered this book at the library and was thrilled. Like Grace Lin's The Year of the Rat and The Year of the Dog, Ruby Lu, Brave and True features an elementary school-aged Chinese girl, and references to Chinese and Chinese-American culture are strewn throughout the book. The reading level is the same, too - a chapter book with short chapters and frequent drawings. I read it out loud to Isabelle (4-years-old) at bedtime, and she really enjoyed it.
I shouldn't draw too many similarities, though, between this book and Grace Lin's books. I don't know exactly how old the main characters in Lin's books are supposed to be, but I think maybe they are in 4th or 5th grade. Ruby Lu is younger - 1st or 2nd grade, I think - and Lenore Look was definitely able to capture the perspective of a bold, imaginative, and adventurous little girl. It was funny at times, but I'm sure most of it went over Isabelle's head. Whereas Grace/Pacy (the main character in Lin's books) struggles with some big questions (e.g., how to reconcile her Chinese-ness and her American-ness, what she should be when she grows up), Ruby Lu simply has one interesting exploit after another, sometimes learning a thing or two along the way. Also, while Grace/Pacy's Chinese-ness is more front-and-center in Lin's books, Ruby is more the picture of an average 1st-or-2nd grader who happens to be Chinese.
I shouldn't draw too many similarities, though, between this book and Grace Lin's books. I don't know exactly how old the main characters in Lin's books are supposed to be, but I think maybe they are in 4th or 5th grade. Ruby Lu is younger - 1st or 2nd grade, I think - and Lenore Look was definitely able to capture the perspective of a bold, imaginative, and adventurous little girl. It was funny at times, but I'm sure most of it went over Isabelle's head. Whereas Grace/Pacy (the main character in Lin's books) struggles with some big questions (e.g., how to reconcile her Chinese-ness and her American-ness, what she should be when she grows up), Ruby Lu simply has one interesting exploit after another, sometimes learning a thing or two along the way. Also, while Grace/Pacy's Chinese-ness is more front-and-center in Lin's books, Ruby is more the picture of an average 1st-or-2nd grader who happens to be Chinese.
September 14, 2016
I cannot express how much I loved this book! Never had I thought there was a book with Chinese school in it, or Cantonese and Chinese words that'd I'd even recognize. Every little detail of this book was so relatable to my childhood and it felt really good to read this. My favorite dim sum dish has always been dan tat and the jokes that we always make about chicken feet were hilarious. I immediately recognized the children's song "liang ge lao hu" and everything about Ruby's Chinese school experience really took me back. I also loved that Ruby overcame this nervousness about meeting her cousin Flying Duck, and it really reminded me of my own relationship with my cousins. This book did such an amazing job following Ruby through her family and culture and all her life changing experiences. This is definitely an example of multicultural literature. Multicultural literature has to be a genre that can offer something to anyone so that they can see themselves in and reflect on themselves and in a way, expand upon that and grow from it. The reading level is definitely for 1st-2nd graders, and I'd specifically recommend this book to Cantonese/English or Chinese/English speaking children because seeing the pinyin in this form is a great way to start recognizing and learning it.
September 15, 2016
„Ruby Lu Brave and True“ by Lenore Look is an amazing chapter book for first and second graders. The almost 8-year-old Asian-American Ruby is a magician. She feels like the entire universe is spinning around her and everything that happens at 20th avenue South where she lives. She is torn between loving and hating every person that comes new into her life. For instance, Ruby seems be overjoyed when her little baby brother Oscar was born but soon enough she was super afraid not to be in the centre of attention any more. Brotherly love and jealousy go together while growing up. Probably many children can relate to that feeling. Ruby is usually very enthusiastic about her life until the moment when her mom wants her to go to Chinese School on Saturdays to learn. After a while she started loving the Chinese school and then there are again some changes in her life. Ruby’s emigrating Chinese cousin Flying Duck is soon arriving and is supposed to stay in her room. Ruby can’t make up her mind whether or not to look forward to it.
I would consider this book as diverse literature even though it stays rather superficial by using some Chinese and Cantonese phrases and involving some Chinese cultural aspects. I would not say that Ruby’s Chinese background is the main theme of the book which is not necessarily bad because this enables many young readers to connect to her story. In addition to that Ruby has a funny, humorous voice which make many kids love her story and giggle while reading it.
I would consider this book as diverse literature even though it stays rather superficial by using some Chinese and Cantonese phrases and involving some Chinese cultural aspects. I would not say that Ruby’s Chinese background is the main theme of the book which is not necessarily bad because this enables many young readers to connect to her story. In addition to that Ruby has a funny, humorous voice which make many kids love her story and giggle while reading it.
October 1, 2020
Ruby Lu is hilariously mischievous! Like Clementine or Dory Fantasmagory, trouble seems to find her.
There are Chinese words and phrases sprinkled throughout the book, with a glossary that explains them at the end.
The book is full of metaphors and imagery that I think could be confusing for newer readers. Also a couple of her stunts are a little dangerous, which may be a turn off for some parents.
There are Chinese words and phrases sprinkled throughout the book, with a glossary that explains them at the end.
The book is full of metaphors and imagery that I think could be confusing for newer readers. Also a couple of her stunts are a little dangerous, which may be a turn off for some parents.
November 8, 2018
I love Ruby Lu! She’s cute & sassy but has a good heart. I hope the kids at parent/child book club like her, too. (Library)
September 14, 2016
Ruby Lu, Brave and True follows Ruby’s magic act on 20th Avenue South. This book follows Ruby as she braves situations with her little brother Oscar and discovers her true self. She learns a lot about her culture when she reluctantly starts to attend Chinese School and gets herself into lots of antics along the way of self-discovery.
I cannot wait to put this in my classroom of future first or second graders. This book was a perfect example of multicultural literature for a young audience. It was not only engaging and thought provoking, but very different from the Junie B. Jones and Amelia Bedelia books I read at that age. This book integrated Cantonese so effortlessly and I felt like the use of another language was an intentional reflection of Ruby's journey and was not just thrown in as a form of tokenism. This book really helped put me, the reader, at the same level as Ruby. I felt like I was on her journey of discovering her Chinese Culture with her. I loved that Ruby went through details of her experience and feelings at Chinese school. Ruby was not initially a huge fan of Chinese School, but the more she found out about her culture, she then found out about herself. This book was refreshing and fun. I would give this book to Chinese students as a mirror and other young reluctant readers as a door.
I cannot wait to put this in my classroom of future first or second graders. This book was a perfect example of multicultural literature for a young audience. It was not only engaging and thought provoking, but very different from the Junie B. Jones and Amelia Bedelia books I read at that age. This book integrated Cantonese so effortlessly and I felt like the use of another language was an intentional reflection of Ruby's journey and was not just thrown in as a form of tokenism. This book really helped put me, the reader, at the same level as Ruby. I felt like I was on her journey of discovering her Chinese Culture with her. I loved that Ruby went through details of her experience and feelings at Chinese school. Ruby was not initially a huge fan of Chinese School, but the more she found out about her culture, she then found out about herself. This book was refreshing and fun. I would give this book to Chinese students as a mirror and other young reluctant readers as a door.
May 17, 2015
I went to grade school with the author and we grew up in the neighborhood where Ruby Lu lives, so I've been meaning to read this series for a while. This is Look's first book and the story doesn't hold together as well as the second and third Ruby Lu books, but it's still a worthwhile read that kids would enjoy. The chapters here are a series of discrete adventures of varying levels of realism (the one where 8-year-old Ruby drives the family car to school being the least relatable), but overall it's very cute and charming. And while it won't register with the majority of readers, I got a huge kick out of Look resurrecting things that are long gone from this part of south Seattle -- the number 3 Jefferson bus, hunting for balls outside the fence of the golf course, and learning to drive in the parking lot at Sick's Stadium. Ruby Lu's story is set in the present day, but Look's nod to the past makes me wish it were 1975 again and we could head down to Pal's for a softserve cone.
August 15, 2016
I'm always on the hunt for children's books with "Ruby" in the title for my 5-year-old, Ruby, so I stumbled upon Ruby Lu, Brave and True, a chapter book better suited for my 8-year-old. By the time we'd made it to the second chapter, both daughters were jumping up and down on the bed, rather than winding down for sleep, screaming at the discovery of Ruby Lu, a Chinese-American 8-year-old who's even sassier than my girls (though they are determined now to try harder).
Cantonese and many Chinese cultural references are woven throughout Ruby Lu's otherwise very American adventures, and my Chinese-American daughters could not have been happier. Having grown up in the late 1970s/early 1980s myself, I can honestly say that no Ruby Lu existed then, but I'm certainly happy that my girls have her now.
From my 8-year-old: "Mommy, I want the entire series for Christmas!"
She says "five stars," I say "three stars." We're compromising at four.
Cantonese and many Chinese cultural references are woven throughout Ruby Lu's otherwise very American adventures, and my Chinese-American daughters could not have been happier. Having grown up in the late 1970s/early 1980s myself, I can honestly say that no Ruby Lu existed then, but I'm certainly happy that my girls have her now.
From my 8-year-old: "Mommy, I want the entire series for Christmas!"
She says "five stars," I say "three stars." We're compromising at four.
October 9, 2014
Ruby Lu is an imaginative character with a big heart, and this was a really cute story following her adventures, mishaps, and lessons. I got this as a gift for my friends' six-year-old daughter, and think it's an excellent choice for kids just beginning to tackle early chapter books; it's fairly quick, with short, easy chapters and a main character that young readers will relate to. I also really loved Ruby's close-knit family and friends, as well as the Chinese culture sprinkled throughout. The dictionary and pronunciation guide included in the back was a great addition, too.
September 6, 2015
This book has ideas in it. Scary.
Read
March 13, 2019Ruby Lu is an animated and charismatic young girl surrounded by family in what she describes as the best street to live on. Throughout the book, Ruby learns what it means to be a good sister, friend, person, and (most importantly) magician.
One of the strengths of the book is the rejection of the typical “model minority” archetype in literature of Asian Americans. Rather than paint her character as docile and naturally academic, Look adds nuance through Ruby's mistakes and conflicts. Frequently, Ruby is confronted with struggles in her friendships and her new Chinese school that shape her in new ways. However, the book can lack focus at times creating some confusion. The flow of the story often feels irregular, as if the author tried to include as many stories as possible into one small book. Each chapter seems to represents its own plot with little connection to the previous ones.
This book includes many important instances of diversity. Firstly, the characters are not overly concerned with “boy things” and “girl things.” Instead, each person is able to explore their interests mostly detached from the confines of gender roles. Language plays an equally important role in the story. Since Ruby’s grandparents exclusively speak Chinese, learning the language becomes a point of inner conflict for Ruby. This smaller plot line offers an important representation of the impact of immigration on multiple generations. As stated previously, the characters blatantly reject the “model minority” archetype. The individuality of each character is celebrated, and used to build their personality rather than define them.
One of the strengths of the book is the rejection of the typical “model minority” archetype in literature of Asian Americans. Rather than paint her character as docile and naturally academic, Look adds nuance through Ruby's mistakes and conflicts. Frequently, Ruby is confronted with struggles in her friendships and her new Chinese school that shape her in new ways. However, the book can lack focus at times creating some confusion. The flow of the story often feels irregular, as if the author tried to include as many stories as possible into one small book. Each chapter seems to represents its own plot with little connection to the previous ones.
This book includes many important instances of diversity. Firstly, the characters are not overly concerned with “boy things” and “girl things.” Instead, each person is able to explore their interests mostly detached from the confines of gender roles. Language plays an equally important role in the story. Since Ruby’s grandparents exclusively speak Chinese, learning the language becomes a point of inner conflict for Ruby. This smaller plot line offers an important representation of the impact of immigration on multiple generations. As stated previously, the characters blatantly reject the “model minority” archetype. The individuality of each character is celebrated, and used to build their personality rather than define them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2019
Ruby Lu Brave and True by Lenore Look is a children’s book which tells a story of an eight-year-old girl and her family. Ruby Lu lives in 20th Avenue South with her mom, dad and her new baby brother, Oscar. Ruby Lu has many friends, and sometimes she really likes them, but sometimes she doesn’t. Just like her friends, Ruby Lu loves Oscar, but sometimes she gets angry at him. Ruby Lu is very good at doing magic tricks thanks to her professor Mr. Tupahotu. She has a magic show called “Ruby’s Magic Madness, and everyone in 20th Avenue South love watching her show. Ruby Lu also goes to Chinese class, at first it was a little hard for her, but eventually she started getting better. Sometimes, Ruby Lu gets in trouble. One time she drove Oscar on her mother’s car all the way to Chinese school. Her parents were very upset, but also happy to see they were fine. At the end of the book, Ruby Lu gets some exciting news that her family from China are moving to 20th Avenue South, and they will be living in her house for a couple of weeks. At first, Ruby Lu doesn’t want to share her bedroom with her cousin, she gets very jealous of all the attention the Chinese family is getting, but once they arrive, Ruby Lu gets very happy and welcomes her cousin to the Unites States. Most importantly, they both love wearing reflecting tape! In general, this book is very nice and warm, perfect for kids, especially those from different cultures. It portrays the love of Asian culture, family, friends and community. I would recommend this book to any kid from eight years and older.
March 12, 2018
The highly entertaining and lovable character in Ruby Lu, Brave and True by Leonore Look, is a 8-year-old Chinese-American girl. She is an adventurous, enthusiastic, imaginative and playful girl, young readers can look up to. Even tough Look chose a female protagonist the character is illustrated in a way that the story is enjoyable to read and relatable for every gender.
Look was able to capture the picture of a well-rounded Chinese-American character struggling with themes such as her little brother Oscar, which she loves and is proud of, taking away attention, or a mean new girl in the neighbourhood she has to deal with for example.
By choosing this character, the author perfectly displays diversity in her story and is able to integrate the Chinese culture into the book. Thus, Look offers the opportunity for young readers to experience and learn the life of Ruby Lu who identifies as a Chinese-American and immerse herself into her own culture. By doing this, the author further creates an opportunity for readers with an ‘insider’ perspective to use this book as a mirror as well as a great opportunity for readers with an ‘outsider’ perspective to have a window into Chinese culture. Another wonderful feature of Ruby Lu, Brave and True , the first chapter book in a series, is the glossary in the back of the book, that contains explanations of Chinese words that might be useful for outsiders. I would highly recommend this funny and charming book!
Look was able to capture the picture of a well-rounded Chinese-American character struggling with themes such as her little brother Oscar, which she loves and is proud of, taking away attention, or a mean new girl in the neighbourhood she has to deal with for example.
By choosing this character, the author perfectly displays diversity in her story and is able to integrate the Chinese culture into the book. Thus, Look offers the opportunity for young readers to experience and learn the life of Ruby Lu who identifies as a Chinese-American and immerse herself into her own culture. By doing this, the author further creates an opportunity for readers with an ‘insider’ perspective to use this book as a mirror as well as a great opportunity for readers with an ‘outsider’ perspective to have a window into Chinese culture. Another wonderful feature of Ruby Lu, Brave and True , the first chapter book in a series, is the glossary in the back of the book, that contains explanations of Chinese words that might be useful for outsiders. I would highly recommend this funny and charming book!
March 13, 2018
This is the story of Ruby Lu, an adventures young eight-year-old who is constantly on the move. Whether it be attending Chinese school, playing with her little brother, or doing magic in her backyard, Ruby is always up to something. The book not only captures the great adventures of an eight-year-old girl but also highlights diversity through her Chinese-American heritage.
While I enjoyed many parts of this book, my favorite part was the fact that the story followed such an active young female protagonist. Ruby showed an excitement for adventure and discovery, which I believe are great qualities for a female protagonist in a lower school book to have I found Ruby’s character to be a major strength that really made me as a reader that much more excited about the story. I also really enjoyed the pictures throughout the book. I think the images make it easier for children to connect to this story, as they have the extra visual representation of what is going on. I think this would be a great book for all young readers, as it shows a strong female protagonist, has a multicultural aspect to it through her Chinese-American heritage and is split into short chapters with pictures so it is accessible for those who are somewhat new to reading chapter books. All around I found it to be a great book that has a strong representation of diversity.
While I enjoyed many parts of this book, my favorite part was the fact that the story followed such an active young female protagonist. Ruby showed an excitement for adventure and discovery, which I believe are great qualities for a female protagonist in a lower school book to have I found Ruby’s character to be a major strength that really made me as a reader that much more excited about the story. I also really enjoyed the pictures throughout the book. I think the images make it easier for children to connect to this story, as they have the extra visual representation of what is going on. I think this would be a great book for all young readers, as it shows a strong female protagonist, has a multicultural aspect to it through her Chinese-American heritage and is split into short chapters with pictures so it is accessible for those who are somewhat new to reading chapter books. All around I found it to be a great book that has a strong representation of diversity.
May 30, 2018
Ruby Lu, Brave and True is about young magician Ruby Lu who is eight years old and her many adventures that she has with her constantly changing life. Between getting a baby brother, starting Chinese school, and preparing for the arrival of her cousin from China, Ruby ends up getting herself into some trouble and into some adventures as well. Meeting new friends, dealing with bullies, and her constantly changing opinion about her younger brother Oscar, this book shows the thoughts and feelings of a young girl growing up and trying to make sense of her world. One key strength of this book is that it shows an accurate depiction of an eight year old girl and her feelings towards life. It shows her excited about her new brother, but also her hating him because he receives more attention than her. Another key strength is that because this book is about a Chinese-American family it also incorporates her trying to learn the language. Chinese words appear in the book as well. I was not really able to determine a weakness of this book. A way that diversity is represented in this book is that it is about a Chinese-American family. As stated earlier the book incorporates Chinese words into the text. This book shows a successful Chinese-American family and even shows a member of that family immigrating from China to stay with them in the US.
June 8, 2018
I thoroughly loved reading Ruby Lu, Brave and True. Ruby is an eight-year-old girl who is Chinese American. She lives in Seattle, Washington which is actually my hometown. She is spunky, adventurous, and full of heart. This book is light-hearted and fun to read. It follows Ruby’s life as she navigates her norms such as being a big sister to her baby brother, or attending Chinese school. It also navigates her love for magic and struggles with mean girls such as Christina, as well as a fellow student’s illness. This story is an accurate portrayal of how eight-year-olds think and view the world. It reminds me slightly of Junie-B-Jones with a little less sass or backtalk. A huge difference from Junie-B is just how diverse Ruby’s world is from Junie-B’s. The story includes Chinese words and phrases, and lots of talk about Chinese school and Ruby’s mother’s life when she lived in China, which are referred to “when I was young” talks. The book includes a glossary in the back to help readers understand the phrases. This book makes an excellent mirror to children of Asian heritage, which is something children’s books many times lack. I would have loved this book in elementary school, due to the fact living in Seattle I had many Chinese friends growing up who I think could have really related to Ruby Lu.
March 10, 2018
This story revolves around an eight-year old Chinese-American girl, Ruby Lu, who lives in Seattle, Washington. Ruby is a radiant young girl who seeks excitement in everything she does. Whether that is teaching her baby brother how to speak, making friends in her Chinese and second grade classrooms, but that does not mean that there are no thought times for Ruby. Ruby’s confidence sparkles and affects everyone around her, which leads her to grabbing everyones attention. Ruby Lu, Brave and True grants readers the ability to learn and experience the life of someone who identifies as a Chinese-American and immerse into their culture. I really enjoyed looking at the images while reading the chapters because I could easily illustrate what was happening within the story. As a future educator, I would like to incorporate this book into my classroom if I am teaching first or second grade because I can see students engaging and analyzing the text in a positive light where they can easily comprehend it. From my personal experience in different classrooms, I have witnessed students struggling with the transition from short stories to chapter books, and with the images and short chapters I can see this as a way to help students want to read and take the time to learn the story.
March 16, 2018
Ruby Lu, Brave and True by Lenore Look is about a young child, Ruby, and her day-to-day life: going to school, doing magic, getting to know her baby brother, and learning more about herself. Ruby is a confident, bold, imaginative seven year-old. Because she is able to overcome each conflict she encounters, this book teaches children not to shy away from new experiences, and to learn from Ruby’s reactions to Oscar, starting Chinese school on Saturdays, meeting her cousin Flying Duck.
This book can act as a mirror and a window for children and adults.
The inclusion of pictures allows for children to understand even if they don’t get all of the words. The writing is fun and engaging. I love when I, as a cultural outsider, read books that include information or language from the culture. I think it is a great way to learn. Look definitely wrote this book with the intent of focusing on Ruby as a person, while including elements that point to the fact that she is Chinese.
I think the younger sibling aspect is something that can be understood by many children and it's something that readers can identify with. It reminded me of Za Za’s Baby Brother by Lucy Cousins, but having a new younger sibling is not the main focus of Ruby Lu.
This book can act as a mirror and a window for children and adults.
The inclusion of pictures allows for children to understand even if they don’t get all of the words. The writing is fun and engaging. I love when I, as a cultural outsider, read books that include information or language from the culture. I think it is a great way to learn. Look definitely wrote this book with the intent of focusing on Ruby as a person, while including elements that point to the fact that she is Chinese.
I think the younger sibling aspect is something that can be understood by many children and it's something that readers can identify with. It reminded me of Za Za’s Baby Brother by Lucy Cousins, but having a new younger sibling is not the main focus of Ruby Lu.
May 31, 2018
Ruby Lu, Brave, and True is a children’s chapter book about a young Chinese American girl. It is a very charming and realistic story about how Ruby deals with a mean neighbor girl and her attention-stealing little brother, which can easily be relatable to most readers. I think that one of the strengths that the author demonstrates is the easy connections that are provided. The relationships that Ruby has been explained throughout the book and are extremely relatable, which allows her book to be more successful in getting off the shelf. I highly recommend this book for all grade school ages and genders. I think that despite the fact that the protagonist is a girl, boy readers can easily relate and enjoy as well. The main diversity that could be shown is the discussion on gender. It is obvious that this book can be seen as being directed at only girls, but that is why Look was requested to write Alvin Ho. I think that if Look would have changed the colors on the cover of the book and made them more neutral, then little boys wouldn’t claim that they don’t want to read “a pink book”. Additionally, if Look had added Ruby’s brother, then that could’ve helped with gender-neutral sales as well.
February 18, 2019
Ruby Lu, Brave and True is about this girl called Ruby Lu. Ruby is a little girl that is of Chinese descent. Ruby is like most young children that loves everything that is around them. However, one thing very interesting about Ruby is that Ruby loves magic. Ruby like to perform magic tricks for her friends. This is interesting indeed and it depicts the innocence of a child. I feel that the book really focuses a lot and gives a good insight of how an American born Chinese lives, especially since the author herself is an American born Chinese. This cultural specification can be seen when Ruby refers her father is an ABC, American born Chinese. Furthermore, the book also focuses a lot on how Ruby’s life is like in her Chinese school. I think one can see the importance and understanding of how one should maintain their cultural identity. This is the importance and the strength of the book. The book is an easy read and it talks about how a typical 8 years old life is like. It is also focus on how bullying is like and how a young girl handles it. This is why I would recommend it to parents that want to show their children how strong a young female can be, since Ruby is the main protagonist in this story.
March 9, 2019
In the fun and charmful novel "Ruby Lu, Brave and True", the young Chinese-American girl finds herself in love with everything. Her house, her school, her family and so much more. Whether she is playing in her cape or doing magic tricks for her grandparents, PohPoh and GungGung, she is happy doing it. It is not until her younger brother, Oscar, starts to grow and she realizes being an older sister may be harder than she thought. She starts to understand the responsibilities she must now take on such as driving and letting her little brother take some of her shine.
The book does a great job at representing Chinese-American culture. For example, Ruby Lu and her brother go to Chinese school on Saturday mornings to help them both better understand their cultural history. Overall, the family makes a clear and welcoming representation of Chinese-American culture. The book is humorous and holds an innocent perspective from Ruby Lu still trying to figure out herself and the world around her. This is a great book for young readers because it brings attention to the way they see and understand Chinese-American culture, while Ruby Lu goes through very similar events as anyone else. A very good read with playful illustrators!
The book does a great job at representing Chinese-American culture. For example, Ruby Lu and her brother go to Chinese school on Saturday mornings to help them both better understand their cultural history. Overall, the family makes a clear and welcoming representation of Chinese-American culture. The book is humorous and holds an innocent perspective from Ruby Lu still trying to figure out herself and the world around her. This is a great book for young readers because it brings attention to the way they see and understand Chinese-American culture, while Ruby Lu goes through very similar events as anyone else. A very good read with playful illustrators!
August 13, 2021
This is more a series of vignettes than a single story. I liked a lot about the different perspective this offered from other books I've read to my 6-year-old, including the matter-of-fact inclusion of Chinese words (the author says it's a common Chinese-American dialect that combines the Cantonese and Taishanese dialects of Southern China) and the relationship Ruby had with her little brother. However, a lot of what happened in the story went over his head, not just because of the references to Chinese-American culture but because of the frequent use of metaphor and hyperbole. The whole book has a fantastical element to it, with Ruby's baby brother learning to do magic tricks and Ruby's mother basically being a paragon of perfection at all times and . There are some good lessons in here, like about bullying and competition, but also some choices I wouldn't want my kids to imitate, like . I've heard the rest of the series is better, but that might be something for my son to explore when he's a little older.
March 9, 2018
The first children series for Lenore Look on an inquisitive, young Chinese-American girl named Ruby Lu. She is described as a happy character that is able to overcome the small challenges she faces, while offering insight into a family within the Chinese culture in terms of food and language. Every few chapters reveal a new issue to be tackled and resolved by spunky Ruby. A key strength of this story is that Ruby learns that no matter what, her friends and family will always love her. Another one is it’s a good example of a multicultural story that introduces outsiders to the culture and provides reflection/celebration for the readers already inside the culture. Ruby Lu is not afraid to be herself and that is shown through her representation of her diversity and how she learns more about it. I would definitely recommend this series to young girls to influence them to be brave and true like charming Ruby. She loves her little brother and shows a sort of maternal side when talking about him, or taking it into her hands to drive them to their Chinese school! You will be laughing along side the kids while reading this story.
March 16, 2018
Ruby Lu is a story about an outgoing little girl who loves life and adventures. She loves her brother (on some days) and loves showing off her magic (only when she's the star of the show). Ruby Lu learns a lot of hard lessons in this story, but it's all a part of her growing process. It's a fun little story that has lots of meaning of culture packed into it as well. You can see Ruby Lu coming to understand and appreciate her heritage and culture through many circumstances. For example, her constant reference to GungGung and PohPoh and her first encounter and perception of attending Chinese school on Saturdays. She's learning to appreciate the dynamics of her family and their Chinese traditions. A weakness could possibly be that it's more so relatable to Asian-American girls because of the portrayed theme, its main character, and the cover of the book.
The diversity represented in here is very well done. It emerges Chinese culture into the everyday life and lessons of a young girl growing. For those who are reading this book, I personally think there is a good amount of Chinese culture presented.
The diversity represented in here is very well done. It emerges Chinese culture into the everyday life and lessons of a young girl growing. For those who are reading this book, I personally think there is a good amount of Chinese culture presented.
February 11, 2019
Ruby Lu was incredibly reminiscent of Romana Quimby or Junie B. Jones in her pluck and precociousness. Like Ramona and Junie, she too has a younger sibling who she alternates between doting upon and envying. Like Ramona and Junie, her small neighborhood (20th Ave.) and the people who live on it are her whole world. And like Ramona and Junie, she doesn't always do the right thing. However, unlike Ramona and Junie, Ruby also has to navigate the fact that she is a young Chinese girl, born and raised in the United States.
Ultimately, the story was charming. Anecdotes about Ruby overcoming her fear of Chinese school, coping with the fact her brother could more fluently than she could, and accepting her newly-immigrated cousin were balanced nicely with adventures about learning magic and driving to school. I absolutely loved Ruby's parents—her Mom was portrayed as elegant yet supportive, and her Dad an avid knitter.
My main critique is how little the story flowed together. Each chapter felt almost entirely separate from the last, with no overarching story to tie the novel together. I feel focusing on a theme would have made this story stronger.
Ultimately, the story was charming. Anecdotes about Ruby overcoming her fear of Chinese school, coping with the fact her brother could more fluently than she could, and accepting her newly-immigrated cousin were balanced nicely with adventures about learning magic and driving to school. I absolutely loved Ruby's parents—her Mom was portrayed as elegant yet supportive, and her Dad an avid knitter.
My main critique is how little the story flowed together. Each chapter felt almost entirely separate from the last, with no overarching story to tie the novel together. I feel focusing on a theme would have made this story stronger.
March 8, 2018
Like Lenore Look's other child book series Alvin Ho, Ruby Lu follows the everyday life of an "almost-eight-year-old" Chinese-American girl named Ruby and her adventures with her family and friends. Ruby loves doing magic tricks and pretending she's the star of her own magic shows and hates when her mother makes her go to Chinese school on the weekends. Ruby has plenty of adventures and along the way gives the readers a reason to smile, laugh and love the little girl. She also deals with issues that many children face, such as her parents not thinking shes old enough to drive, having to give attention to her little bother and having to have the mean girl at school. Ruby is a character all children have something in common with. Look does a good job of integrating Chinese culture into the book and gives young girls a mischievous and playful little girl to look up to and follow the life of. Lenore could have added a little more Chinese culture but other than that this is an amazing book for young children, specifically young girls.
March 15, 2018
Ruby Lu is a book about this young Asian American girl's life in Seattle. She talked about her baby brother, Chinese school, making friends, and her new neighbor. As an Asian American, it is refreshing to read a children's book with a main character that I look like me and has similar experiences as me. For example, I personally have never gone to Chinese school but my cousin did. Ruby's experiences illustrated in the book are very similar to the stories my cousin told me. Additionally, I appreciate the references to the Chinese culture and Chinese language in the book. I especially appreciate that the author included a glossary that is both humorous and informational. Written by an insider author, the book provides authentic representation of Asian American that unfortunately lacks in children's literature. We need more books like Ruby Lu so young Asian American readers have books that can relate to. Additionally, it is a great way for non-Asian American readers to learn about a new culture they are unfamiliar with.
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