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Donutella Hamachi and the Library Avengers
From drag sensation and star of RuPaul’s Drag Race Kim Chi and the acclaimed author of the K-Pop Confidential books comes a contemporary superhero series about a community coming together, fabulously, to save a local library.
For twelve-year-old Korean immigrant Jae Han, the library is more than a place to check out books. It’s a safe space to work on his comic book featuring drag superhero Donutella Hamachi, play video games to improve his English, and befriend other outcast kids sheltering among the stacks. When the mayor announces plans to demolish the building and pave a mall parking lot, Jae Han pleads with his friend the librarian to intervene. But even if the mayor doesn’t shutter the library, Ms. Henny reveals, a funding deficit will. Called to action, Jae Han rallies his ragtag group of friends to halt the destruction of their haven. Can they—with help from the sparkling Donutella Hamachi—unite long enough to defeat the slime-shooting blobfish enveloping screaming citizens in goo (i.e., ace a fundraising campaign)? Filled with diabolical plots and empowerment aplenty, this lively foray into the heart of a town’s darkness, sprinkled through with hilarious graphic panels, will delight superhero fans, comic book creators, and anyone who has felt outside the mainstream—and perfectly at home in a library.
For twelve-year-old Korean immigrant Jae Han, the library is more than a place to check out books. It’s a safe space to work on his comic book featuring drag superhero Donutella Hamachi, play video games to improve his English, and befriend other outcast kids sheltering among the stacks. When the mayor announces plans to demolish the building and pave a mall parking lot, Jae Han pleads with his friend the librarian to intervene. But even if the mayor doesn’t shutter the library, Ms. Henny reveals, a funding deficit will. Called to action, Jae Han rallies his ragtag group of friends to halt the destruction of their haven. Can they—with help from the sparkling Donutella Hamachi—unite long enough to defeat the slime-shooting blobfish enveloping screaming citizens in goo (i.e., ace a fundraising campaign)? Filled with diabolical plots and empowerment aplenty, this lively foray into the heart of a town’s darkness, sprinkled through with hilarious graphic panels, will delight superhero fans, comic book creators, and anyone who has felt outside the mainstream—and perfectly at home in a library.
192 pages, Hardcover
Published September 5, 2025
12 people are currently reading
2466 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
October 2, 2025
Full disclosure: I have had some interactions with one of the authors for a few years now, so I was going into this biased because I know how great he is. That said, this book was so entertaining and warm. It's a full-on love letter to the weird, wonderful, creative library kids. I flew through it!
Jae Han feels like he doesn't have a place to be himself. He's going to a fancy new school on the other side of town because his brother is going on a basketball scholarship. He gets bullied by one of the popular kids. He had to leave his friends behind. His parents don't understand his love of art, fashion, and comics. But he has some time to see his friends and engage in his hobbies every day at the library.
Until the mayor decides that the library needs to be demolished to make way for a new mall, spurring Jae Han and his friends to do what they can to save it.
I love the growth of the character. Jae Han starts off insecure and a little quiet. He'll stand up for himself if needed, but mostly he keeps to himself at school and home. It was nice to see him start to stand up for both his own needs and those of his community. His support group includes some great friends from near his home (going to a different school), as well as the town librarian and the library's body guard. He also gets some help from a comic book author and illustrator. The way this book portrays community was well done and a good reminder for people of all ages, especially in the times we find ourselves living.
Jae Han's comic book is also well illustrated. The format reminds me a little bit of Captain Underpants or Diary of a Wimpy Kid in that it's mostly text with some comic pages thrown in. That said, the quality of the comic pages in this (done by the artist, Utomaru) is FAR and away higher. I would happily read an entire Donutella comic. Donutella reminds me of a fabulous drag version of Sailor Moon. She reads plus-size, which I love to see. I also love that Jae Han has made all of his friends "superhero colleagues" instead of being sidekicks. They're like dessert-themed sailor scouts. Honestly, I could see this book becoming a series and that would make me happy, as well. I think this book will appeal to kids who like that kind of book format, kids who see themselves in Jae Han and his friends, or kids who feel the need or want to speak up for others. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
5/5 stars
Jae Han feels like he doesn't have a place to be himself. He's going to a fancy new school on the other side of town because his brother is going on a basketball scholarship. He gets bullied by one of the popular kids. He had to leave his friends behind. His parents don't understand his love of art, fashion, and comics. But he has some time to see his friends and engage in his hobbies every day at the library.
Until the mayor decides that the library needs to be demolished to make way for a new mall, spurring Jae Han and his friends to do what they can to save it.
I love the growth of the character. Jae Han starts off insecure and a little quiet. He'll stand up for himself if needed, but mostly he keeps to himself at school and home. It was nice to see him start to stand up for both his own needs and those of his community. His support group includes some great friends from near his home (going to a different school), as well as the town librarian and the library's body guard. He also gets some help from a comic book author and illustrator. The way this book portrays community was well done and a good reminder for people of all ages, especially in the times we find ourselves living.
Jae Han's comic book is also well illustrated. The format reminds me a little bit of Captain Underpants or Diary of a Wimpy Kid in that it's mostly text with some comic pages thrown in. That said, the quality of the comic pages in this (done by the artist, Utomaru) is FAR and away higher. I would happily read an entire Donutella comic. Donutella reminds me of a fabulous drag version of Sailor Moon. She reads plus-size, which I love to see. I also love that Jae Han has made all of his friends "superhero colleagues" instead of being sidekicks. They're like dessert-themed sailor scouts. Honestly, I could see this book becoming a series and that would make me happy, as well. I think this book will appeal to kids who like that kind of book format, kids who see themselves in Jae Han and his friends, or kids who feel the need or want to speak up for others. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
5/5 stars
September 18, 2025
This was a really cute book! I was confused because from the art I thought it was a graphic novel, but I did enjoy the graphic novel sections in it too! The story is very simple and to the point. Things just kind of go the right way, but it’s a middle grade book so it gets some leeway. Even though I work at a library, I never realized how much libraries really mean to people. Especially someone who feels like they don’t really have anywhere else to go. I felt so much for Jae Han and his friends. This also goes over community and how much your community can help you. There is a little bullying and how to overcome it and I appreciated that as well. Jae Han’s parents are immigrants from Korea so there is a lot of good discussions about how they see things and how it’s different from other people because of cultural differences. That’s always interesting to see. I love the fabulousness of the Drag Queens and how normalized it all was. Even though it said someone didn’t like it, it wasn’t really discussed as much. Stories like these are so important with how much libraries are in danger. I think every kid and just adult in general who loves learning and resources should be reading this and books like these!
July 17, 2025
Twelve-year-old Jae Han loves his local library. It’s a safe place for him to meet with his friends, read his favorite graphic novels, and practice his art. When the library is set to be demolished and replaced with a mall, Jae Han and his friends work to organize an art fair in an effort to raise enough community support to save the library. They’ll have local artists, small businesses, preformances, and Jae Han will even sell copies of his comic: Donutella Hamachi.
This is an absolutely adorable story about children of immigrants rising up to protect their community. It promotes civic engagement, the arts, and the public library. While mostly formatted as a novel, it also includes comics drawn by Jae Han that metaphorically reflect his thoughts and feelings. Jae Han is Korean American (own voices) and most supporting characters are also racially diverse. Fabulously funny, campy and cute, Donutella Hamachi and the Library Avengers is an excellent pick for middle grade readers who love creative self-expression and libraries. Perfect for fans of Ban This Book by Alan Gratz.
I received an ARC from Holiday House at ALA Annual 2025. Thanks Holiday House!
This is an absolutely adorable story about children of immigrants rising up to protect their community. It promotes civic engagement, the arts, and the public library. While mostly formatted as a novel, it also includes comics drawn by Jae Han that metaphorically reflect his thoughts and feelings. Jae Han is Korean American (own voices) and most supporting characters are also racially diverse. Fabulously funny, campy and cute, Donutella Hamachi and the Library Avengers is an excellent pick for middle grade readers who love creative self-expression and libraries. Perfect for fans of Ban This Book by Alan Gratz.
I received an ARC from Holiday House at ALA Annual 2025. Thanks Holiday House!
October 26, 2025
Adorable & fierce! 💕 So many great messages for kids who are: nerds, immigrants, outcasts, artists, nerds, and divas! I preordered this book and selfishly read it first…but now that I’m done, it can go on the shelves of my fourth grade classroom library! I already have kids on a waiting list for it…both boys & girls! Thanks Kim Chi…and thanks for all the hidden drag race references that made me chuckle. Pitt Cruz…okay, that one took me a second. 😂
And go buy the fabulous Donutella merch at kimchichicbeauty.com. Cuz, hey, if kids don’t like reading, then bribe them with puffy stickers…or lip gloss!! 💋
And go buy the fabulous Donutella merch at kimchichicbeauty.com. Cuz, hey, if kids don’t like reading, then bribe them with puffy stickers…or lip gloss!! 💋
December 2, 2025
For more bookish opinions, visit my blog: Craft-Cycle
This was absolutely adorable. One of the best books I've read all year. I was pulled in by the beautiful and energetic cover and the story inside did not disappoint.
The only place seventh grader Jae Han Kim feels he belongs is the Firkus Public Library where he hangs out with his friends, chats with the helpful librarian and friendly security guard, and creates his Donutella Hamachi comics. But now the mayor wants to tear down the library to build a mall. Can Jae Han find his inner fierceness to help save his favorite place?
Hilarious, sweet, and so much fun. There is a ton of library love in this book, which I adore. Ms. Henny is the librarian we all need in our lives.
Well-written and engaging. I was hooked from the start. Loved getting to see Jae Han figure out his relationships with his parents, brother, new friends, and his own identity.
The story works in real-life issues surrounding libraries including drag queen storytime controversies, inadequate funding, and their struggles to survive in a capitalist society - all wrapped up in a sweet story and a pretty package.
Wonderful themes of community engagement, activism, friendship, parental expectations, standing up for what you think is right, being yourself, and open communication.
Loved the gorgeous black-and-white artwork. Throughout the book, we get to read sections of Jae Han's Donutella comics as he uses them to figure out his own feelings and how to proceed in the situation.
This was such a sweet, adorable, fun, inclusive, and fabulous book. Loved the story, loved the characters, loved the art. Would love to see more adventures with Donutella, Jae Han, and the other Library Avengers.
This was absolutely adorable. One of the best books I've read all year. I was pulled in by the beautiful and energetic cover and the story inside did not disappoint.
The only place seventh grader Jae Han Kim feels he belongs is the Firkus Public Library where he hangs out with his friends, chats with the helpful librarian and friendly security guard, and creates his Donutella Hamachi comics. But now the mayor wants to tear down the library to build a mall. Can Jae Han find his inner fierceness to help save his favorite place?
Hilarious, sweet, and so much fun. There is a ton of library love in this book, which I adore. Ms. Henny is the librarian we all need in our lives.
Well-written and engaging. I was hooked from the start. Loved getting to see Jae Han figure out his relationships with his parents, brother, new friends, and his own identity.
The story works in real-life issues surrounding libraries including drag queen storytime controversies, inadequate funding, and their struggles to survive in a capitalist society - all wrapped up in a sweet story and a pretty package.
Wonderful themes of community engagement, activism, friendship, parental expectations, standing up for what you think is right, being yourself, and open communication.
Loved the gorgeous black-and-white artwork. Throughout the book, we get to read sections of Jae Han's Donutella comics as he uses them to figure out his own feelings and how to proceed in the situation.
This was such a sweet, adorable, fun, inclusive, and fabulous book. Loved the story, loved the characters, loved the art. Would love to see more adventures with Donutella, Jae Han, and the other Library Avengers.
February 26, 2026
A sweet (pun intended) hybrid graphic/chapter book about one kid who feels like an outsider in every way, everywhere, except his local library. So when it comes under attack, he'll have to learn to use his talents and his voice. An uplifting story that touches on a lot of hot button issues: corruption in politics; defunding public services; book banning; LGBTQ+ people and drag; race and ethnicity. It's also majorly about the expectations of first-generation immigrants for their children and the pressure to succeed. And also delicious food. Featuring beautiful artwork.
Side note, I feel very lucky to be out of the school system. Happy to not be the rope in the current iteration of "Let's use children to play political / moral tug-of-war."
Side note, I feel very lucky to be out of the school system. Happy to not be the rope in the current iteration of "Let's use children to play political / moral tug-of-war."
February 19, 2026
I mean, is this the best book I have ever read in terms of subtlety and craft, etc? Nah. Is the age rage awkward because we are talking about upper middle school kids but the story and writing skews way younger than that? Yep. Was this book a damn delight from start to finish? One hundred percent. It took me a while to get through because I read it in 10 minute chunks during SSR at school, but I loved it.
December 17, 2025
cute!!
April 9, 2025
Far from perfect (which actually makes it perfect) this is a good book of representation and the theme of standing up for yourself. A neat mix of text and art that has a fun voice.
December 21, 2025
I love Kim Chi and am so excited she wrote a book! Loved the message of supporting public libraries, its references to the world of drag, and the inclusion of comic style illustrations alongside the text.
November 21, 2025
Donutella! This week, you brought us a plot as sweet and well rounded as a donut - but with no holes. Condragulations, you are the winner of this week’s challenge. No but seriously, this middle grade novel interspersed with pages of comic frames and illustrations was perfection. I was tearing up, I was full of library joy, drag joy. Jae Han’s desire to follow his dreams while making everyone around him proud was heartwarming, and the Drag Race references were plentiful and made me laugh out loud. I could read a million of these.
CWs - Bullying, Homophobia, Transphobia, Vomit, Toxic friendship, Classism
CWs - Bullying, Homophobia, Transphobia, Vomit, Toxic friendship, Classism
November 1, 2025
Kim Chi is a larger-than-life drag persona who brings the worlds of makeup artistry, Asian culture, comedy, business savvy, branding, global cuisine, fashion, and drag together in an explosion of creativity. Now, she can add YA novelist to that list. The real beauty of this book is its ability to succinctly touch on all of those aspects that make Kim Chi fabulous — without veering off course or losing any heart. Sure, it’s a pretty straightforward tale about coming of age and expressing your true self, but between Kim Chi’s story and a handful of short comic-style illustrations, it comes together as something very special. Drag Race fans get very silly Easter eggs throughout, which is fun. But this short story contains so many wonderful, teachable, and important lessons. It’s just bursting with charm and good vibes. I think it would make an excellent gift for young readers.
October 8, 2025
Thank you, Hear Our Voices Tours, Candlewick Press, Kim Chi, Stephan Lee & Utomaru for sending me a copy for tour! 🥰🫶
.
I loved loved loved this book so much! 💕I practically read it in one sitting (well, I read half, took a nap, woke up, and immediately read the rest 😭). I went into this thinking it was a graphic novel, but I’m actually glad it wasn't. As much as I love graphic novels, I think this story was better told written out to fully round it out the way it is. However, there were illustrations and mini-comics sprinkled throughout. ☺️
.
Jae Han Kim is a 7th-grade Korean-American kid at a new school after his brother Dae Hyun got the two scholarships to the school based on his basketball skills. Jae has been having a hard time at his new school, having left his friends, being one of the few Asian kids, and getting bullied. Jae is shy and spends his free time creating a comic series called Donutella Hamchi - a beauty business owner by day, donut-powered superheroine by night. Jae’s safe space (and second home) is his local library, which he's spent time at with his friends for as long as he can remember. Jae and his friend’s parents all own stores in the strip mall next to the library, so the library became a space for the four of them to hang out after school or during the summers. The main librarian is the sweetest ever and is so incredible - Ms. Henny. She has put so much into the library to make it the best it can be for its frequent visitors, including Jae and his friends. Jae’s friends, like himself, are incredibly creative. Sameera loves music, Yiren loves photography, and Elijah loves theater. Ms. Henny makes sure Jae and his friends all have books and resources related to their passions. She also puts her own money into making the library better, making amazingly diverse book displays, and just being an incredible person. One thing I loved about this book is that the main cast of characters are all kids of immigrant parents - Jae (and his brother), Jae’s friends, and even Ms. Henny.
.
Jae’s friends, Ms. Henny, and the library security guard, Officer Mateo, are all super supportive of Jae’s comics and love to read his latest work. In fact, they all have their own superpowered version of themselves in Donutella’s world. However, Jae’s family isn’t as supportive. His parents feel that reading comics (pictures) doesn’t count as reading. (it does btw! 😊) They also have always told Jae to tone down his extraness, so Jae hides Donutella from them and becomes a shell of himself at home. Jae Han’s parents very clearly also show favoritism to his older brother Dae for his sports skills. It breaks my heart so much for Jae because his creativity should be celebrated! 🥺
.
The new mayor hosts a press release in front of the library discussing how he is planning on fulfilling his campaign promise of supporting small businesses. Jae is so excited thinking the library will get more funding, and Ms. Henny will get to stop paying for stuff, and the old computers could get replaced. Instead, Mayor McQueen announces the library will be torn down and a mall will be put in its place. He insists everything the library does can be done on a phone or tablet. Jae’s whole world begins to crumble, but he is determined to fight for the library until the very end.
.
I won't say too much to avoid spoilers, but I just really love this book. I recorded a 30 minute voice memo while reading 😅, so I could yap forever because I just love it that much! I think it teaches so many important lessons, has lovable characters, character development, creativity, community, and just so much more! 🩷I am so glad that kids have books like Donutella to read, and I wish I had been able to read this when I was younger! I really hope this turns into a series or at least another book, as I really love and connected with these characters. Or maybe a mini comic spin-off showing Jae’s comic world of Donutella! 🍩 I even have an idea for book 2, so Kim, Stephan, hit me up. (JK, unless 👀)
.
If you've read this far, do whatever you can to support your local libraries, please! They are so important! 📚The dedication of this book is: “To all librarians, who have the ultimate superpower to take us to anywhere in the world, real or imaginary.” 📚And I think it is so true!
.
I loved loved loved this book so much! 💕I practically read it in one sitting (well, I read half, took a nap, woke up, and immediately read the rest 😭). I went into this thinking it was a graphic novel, but I’m actually glad it wasn't. As much as I love graphic novels, I think this story was better told written out to fully round it out the way it is. However, there were illustrations and mini-comics sprinkled throughout. ☺️
.
Jae Han Kim is a 7th-grade Korean-American kid at a new school after his brother Dae Hyun got the two scholarships to the school based on his basketball skills. Jae has been having a hard time at his new school, having left his friends, being one of the few Asian kids, and getting bullied. Jae is shy and spends his free time creating a comic series called Donutella Hamchi - a beauty business owner by day, donut-powered superheroine by night. Jae’s safe space (and second home) is his local library, which he's spent time at with his friends for as long as he can remember. Jae and his friend’s parents all own stores in the strip mall next to the library, so the library became a space for the four of them to hang out after school or during the summers. The main librarian is the sweetest ever and is so incredible - Ms. Henny. She has put so much into the library to make it the best it can be for its frequent visitors, including Jae and his friends. Jae’s friends, like himself, are incredibly creative. Sameera loves music, Yiren loves photography, and Elijah loves theater. Ms. Henny makes sure Jae and his friends all have books and resources related to their passions. She also puts her own money into making the library better, making amazingly diverse book displays, and just being an incredible person. One thing I loved about this book is that the main cast of characters are all kids of immigrant parents - Jae (and his brother), Jae’s friends, and even Ms. Henny.
.
Jae’s friends, Ms. Henny, and the library security guard, Officer Mateo, are all super supportive of Jae’s comics and love to read his latest work. In fact, they all have their own superpowered version of themselves in Donutella’s world. However, Jae’s family isn’t as supportive. His parents feel that reading comics (pictures) doesn’t count as reading. (it does btw! 😊) They also have always told Jae to tone down his extraness, so Jae hides Donutella from them and becomes a shell of himself at home. Jae Han’s parents very clearly also show favoritism to his older brother Dae for his sports skills. It breaks my heart so much for Jae because his creativity should be celebrated! 🥺
.
The new mayor hosts a press release in front of the library discussing how he is planning on fulfilling his campaign promise of supporting small businesses. Jae is so excited thinking the library will get more funding, and Ms. Henny will get to stop paying for stuff, and the old computers could get replaced. Instead, Mayor McQueen announces the library will be torn down and a mall will be put in its place. He insists everything the library does can be done on a phone or tablet. Jae’s whole world begins to crumble, but he is determined to fight for the library until the very end.
.
I won't say too much to avoid spoilers, but I just really love this book. I recorded a 30 minute voice memo while reading 😅, so I could yap forever because I just love it that much! I think it teaches so many important lessons, has lovable characters, character development, creativity, community, and just so much more! 🩷I am so glad that kids have books like Donutella to read, and I wish I had been able to read this when I was younger! I really hope this turns into a series or at least another book, as I really love and connected with these characters. Or maybe a mini comic spin-off showing Jae’s comic world of Donutella! 🍩 I even have an idea for book 2, so Kim, Stephan, hit me up. (JK, unless 👀)
.
If you've read this far, do whatever you can to support your local libraries, please! They are so important! 📚The dedication of this book is: “To all librarians, who have the ultimate superpower to take us to anywhere in the world, real or imaginary.” 📚And I think it is so true!
September 30, 2025
🏳️🌈Rep: Queer-coded Korean-American MMC with a lisp, MC & all prominent SCs are children of immigrants, other queer-coded characters
📝Tropes/Themes: Found Family, Band of Misfits, Immigrant Experiences, Kids Save the Day, Political Corruption, Parental Expectations, Growing Up, Community
Oh my goodness! This book was like a warm hug for the soul and I am beyond thrilled that it exists. At a time where drag queens and trans people and books and immigrants are being attacked and vilified while the real problems in our country and world are ignored or worse…stories like this are needed more than ever. In a world filled with darkness, Donutella Hamachi is like a rainbow painted crosswalk.
I cried more than once while reading this book. It was silly and fun and lighthearted, but also had so many beautiful messages woven throughout the pages. Donutella Hamachi is not just a cute Middle Grade story that is part novel, part graphic novel. It is:
A celebration of drag and drag culture.
A recognition of the impact of public libraries (and not just because of access to books).
An ode to the superheroes we call librarians.
A tribute to the contributions of immigrants to our country and communities.
A celebration of the arts - books, art, theater, music, fashion, etc.
A reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together against the real evil forces at work in our world.
A story about the power of friendship and belonging.
A beautiful message to all the quirky, nerdy, artsy misfits out there that what they have to offer the world matters, that they matter, and that they have power just by being who they are.
And in addition to all of that - I love the illustrations for Jae Han’s Donutella comics and for all the Library Avengers added into the story. The graphics were incredible and my only issue is that I wanted even more of them! The cover, the dust jacket, the endpapers - absolutely gorgeous!
Buy this book for kids you know or people you know who have kids. Read it yourself. Donate a copy to a school library. Ask your local library to carry a copy. Help get this beautiful story out into the world. We need it. We need more stories like this. And we need more people like Jae Han and Sameera and Yiren and Elijah and Zavion and Ms. Henny and BonBon Chocolat. We need normal every day people to find the superhero within and stand up to all the Mayor McQueens and Mr. Jeffries of the world.
LIBRARY AVENGERS, ASSEMBLE!
⚠️TW/CW: bullying, minor racism/mention of racial stereotypes, minor instance of theft, manipulation (by men in power)
📝Tropes/Themes: Found Family, Band of Misfits, Immigrant Experiences, Kids Save the Day, Political Corruption, Parental Expectations, Growing Up, Community
Oh my goodness! This book was like a warm hug for the soul and I am beyond thrilled that it exists. At a time where drag queens and trans people and books and immigrants are being attacked and vilified while the real problems in our country and world are ignored or worse…stories like this are needed more than ever. In a world filled with darkness, Donutella Hamachi is like a rainbow painted crosswalk.
I cried more than once while reading this book. It was silly and fun and lighthearted, but also had so many beautiful messages woven throughout the pages. Donutella Hamachi is not just a cute Middle Grade story that is part novel, part graphic novel. It is:
A celebration of drag and drag culture.
A recognition of the impact of public libraries (and not just because of access to books).
An ode to the superheroes we call librarians.
A tribute to the contributions of immigrants to our country and communities.
A celebration of the arts - books, art, theater, music, fashion, etc.
A reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together against the real evil forces at work in our world.
A story about the power of friendship and belonging.
A beautiful message to all the quirky, nerdy, artsy misfits out there that what they have to offer the world matters, that they matter, and that they have power just by being who they are.
And in addition to all of that - I love the illustrations for Jae Han’s Donutella comics and for all the Library Avengers added into the story. The graphics were incredible and my only issue is that I wanted even more of them! The cover, the dust jacket, the endpapers - absolutely gorgeous!
Buy this book for kids you know or people you know who have kids. Read it yourself. Donate a copy to a school library. Ask your local library to carry a copy. Help get this beautiful story out into the world. We need it. We need more stories like this. And we need more people like Jae Han and Sameera and Yiren and Elijah and Zavion and Ms. Henny and BonBon Chocolat. We need normal every day people to find the superhero within and stand up to all the Mayor McQueens and Mr. Jeffries of the world.
LIBRARY AVENGERS, ASSEMBLE!
⚠️TW/CW: bullying, minor racism/mention of racial stereotypes, minor instance of theft, manipulation (by men in power)
December 11, 2025
Full disclosure I got this book in a goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. I did not look as closely as I should have at what the book was about and who it was by. I need children's book for my free library and I like the idea of children saving the library. I did not notice who or what the book was by or about.
This could be an important story about a young boy learning to accept himself as he is, and learning to use his artistic talents to cope with the way that others may not understand him and may be unkind. This could have been a book that helped kids or even saved their lives. It could have. It could have been a fun story about kids finding their voice and realizing they could make important real life changes in the world. While there were glimpses of these things. While the writing was OK.
This book was sadly a stereotype of everything conservatives complain about. Kim Chi wants to address these things. He wants to help marginalized children. Sadly, even more than that he wants to submerse himself in his autogynephilia. The grooming starts on page 7, before the main character has even really been introduced, when the bullies start to do what bullies do. These bullies suddenly stop themselves to annonce that it is ok for hero to be girls because "everyone knows gender is just a constuct". This proves they are smart bullies not dumb jocks like previous bullies. The thing is that nothing in this exchange promotes plot or character development. It is there just to earworm into the minds of vulnerable children aka grooming.
The book is so packed with this kind of agenda there is little room for story, character arc or anything redeeming. I guess the art is good. Other than that, I would give this book a hard pass for both myself and my children.
#goodreadsgiveaways #Candlewickpress #DonutellaHamachi
This could be an important story about a young boy learning to accept himself as he is, and learning to use his artistic talents to cope with the way that others may not understand him and may be unkind. This could have been a book that helped kids or even saved their lives. It could have. It could have been a fun story about kids finding their voice and realizing they could make important real life changes in the world. While there were glimpses of these things. While the writing was OK.
This book was sadly a stereotype of everything conservatives complain about. Kim Chi wants to address these things. He wants to help marginalized children. Sadly, even more than that he wants to submerse himself in his autogynephilia. The grooming starts on page 7, before the main character has even really been introduced, when the bullies start to do what bullies do. These bullies suddenly stop themselves to annonce that it is ok for hero to be girls because "everyone knows gender is just a constuct". This proves they are smart bullies not dumb jocks like previous bullies. The thing is that nothing in this exchange promotes plot or character development. It is there just to earworm into the minds of vulnerable children aka grooming.
The book is so packed with this kind of agenda there is little room for story, character arc or anything redeeming. I guess the art is good. Other than that, I would give this book a hard pass for both myself and my children.
#goodreadsgiveaways #Candlewickpress #DonutellaHamachi
August 10, 2025
Thank you Candlewick Press for this ARC book
The artwork for this book is so cute and well done. I particularly loved the character design sheets showing each superhero's unique look and powers. I can't wait to see the fully completed version, but already what is completed brings the story to life in such a wonderful way. The comic within the larger story is so well integrated and a great way to really see more of Jae Han's creative process as well as how he uses his art to work though his emotions and brainstorm ideas. He is such a wonderfully creative and cool character and its so cool seeing him become more confident in this throughout the book. The story centers around Jae Han's mission to save the library but also his struggle to fit in at school and his difficulties expressing himself to his family. These elements all blend together really well and help highlight why the library is such an important place. I also really appreciated how the book brought in other important related topics around intellectual freedom and drag story time in a way that is age appropriate and flowed well with the story. The book really nailed the intersectionality of the challenges that libraries face today and the challenges of those who need the library most. I am also so impressed that for a book that is handling all these potentially tough topics the story also has so many light and fun moments. Jae Han's joy working with the library avengers is contagious and seeing how much he brings his community together is so beautiful. Overall this is just a well thought out and cool book that really highlights the importance of communities and the way the library serves them.
The artwork for this book is so cute and well done. I particularly loved the character design sheets showing each superhero's unique look and powers. I can't wait to see the fully completed version, but already what is completed brings the story to life in such a wonderful way. The comic within the larger story is so well integrated and a great way to really see more of Jae Han's creative process as well as how he uses his art to work though his emotions and brainstorm ideas. He is such a wonderfully creative and cool character and its so cool seeing him become more confident in this throughout the book. The story centers around Jae Han's mission to save the library but also his struggle to fit in at school and his difficulties expressing himself to his family. These elements all blend together really well and help highlight why the library is such an important place. I also really appreciated how the book brought in other important related topics around intellectual freedom and drag story time in a way that is age appropriate and flowed well with the story. The book really nailed the intersectionality of the challenges that libraries face today and the challenges of those who need the library most. I am also so impressed that for a book that is handling all these potentially tough topics the story also has so many light and fun moments. Jae Han's joy working with the library avengers is contagious and seeing how much he brings his community together is so beautiful. Overall this is just a well thought out and cool book that really highlights the importance of communities and the way the library serves them.
September 30, 2025
Jae Han Kim is a Korean-American 7th grader who copes with life through the alter-ego of his own superhero, Donutella Hamachi. He creates and draws the comic to channel his feelings about not being boyish enough for his hardworking immigrant parents, the difficulty of dealing with the class bully, Adam, his love of female superheroes and to satisfy his vivid imagination. And, obviously, to glorify his favorite food: donuts. When the money hungry mayor threatens to close his beloved public library, Jae Han joins forces with the librarian, Ms. Henny, and his three besties Yiren, Elijah and Sameera, to hatch a plan to save the only place where he can feel free.
Drag “sensation” Kim Chi, who herself is Korean America, cowrote this high-spirited story. Jae Han is a drag queen in the making, and lots of the other characters are queer or allies, and there is a lot of racial diversity. Manga fans will love the vivid black and white manga-style graphic novel interludes of Donutella’s adventures and Jae Han’s drag queen personifications of all the major characters (which appear in color on the endpapers). Jae Han’s love and fear of his immigrant parents is a dramatic part of the story, as he passionately wants them to succeed but is afraid to show them his true self. There’s also lots of nerdy Star Wars references as well as a strong fanboy thing with his favorite graphic novel artist, who is also Korean American. This is a fun, feel-good romp with the fanfare of drag to give it verve. Also, so much library love!
Drag “sensation” Kim Chi, who herself is Korean America, cowrote this high-spirited story. Jae Han is a drag queen in the making, and lots of the other characters are queer or allies, and there is a lot of racial diversity. Manga fans will love the vivid black and white manga-style graphic novel interludes of Donutella’s adventures and Jae Han’s drag queen personifications of all the major characters (which appear in color on the endpapers). Jae Han’s love and fear of his immigrant parents is a dramatic part of the story, as he passionately wants them to succeed but is afraid to show them his true self. There’s also lots of nerdy Star Wars references as well as a strong fanboy thing with his favorite graphic novel artist, who is also Korean American. This is a fun, feel-good romp with the fanfare of drag to give it verve. Also, so much library love!
October 5, 2025
This book is a literary rainbow. It is filled with flare, color, and teaches youth how to stand up for themselves, their interests, and what brings them joy.
The main character, Jae Han Kim, is a young boy who finds joy in his creation of graphic novel heroine, Donutella Hamachi. Feeling othered in his family and his social life, he finds solace in the characters he has created.
There was so much great representation, including bullying, Korean American culture, having a sibling who is favored, gaining confidence from supportive adults, and feeling like one's interests aren't important. Small businesses were also highlighted and the book shed light on how different ordering apps harm restaurant profits.
I was similar to Jae Han Kim as a child. I never "fit in" or felt appreciated for who I was. Books and the library were my solace. I loved how this book emphasized the importance of libraries, books, and drag as a form expression. It also validated all forms of books including graphic novels and audiobooks, which I applaud.
Donutella Hamachi and the Library Avengers is a beautiful book in every way. It touches on difficult topics for young readers in a way that adds some flare and connects in a way that is sensitive and powerful. I hope that this book will find its way to as many young folks as possible. It is incredibly important.
The main character, Jae Han Kim, is a young boy who finds joy in his creation of graphic novel heroine, Donutella Hamachi. Feeling othered in his family and his social life, he finds solace in the characters he has created.
There was so much great representation, including bullying, Korean American culture, having a sibling who is favored, gaining confidence from supportive adults, and feeling like one's interests aren't important. Small businesses were also highlighted and the book shed light on how different ordering apps harm restaurant profits.
I was similar to Jae Han Kim as a child. I never "fit in" or felt appreciated for who I was. Books and the library were my solace. I loved how this book emphasized the importance of libraries, books, and drag as a form expression. It also validated all forms of books including graphic novels and audiobooks, which I applaud.
Donutella Hamachi and the Library Avengers is a beautiful book in every way. It touches on difficult topics for young readers in a way that adds some flare and connects in a way that is sensitive and powerful. I hope that this book will find its way to as many young folks as possible. It is incredibly important.
November 4, 2025
Donutella Hamachi and the Library Avengers
by Kim Chi, Stephan Lee, illustrated by utomaru
Thank you to Candlewick Press for the copy.
Donutella Hamachi and the Library Avengers is a vibrant, heartfelt celebration of community, creativity, and the power of feeling seen. Kim Chi and Stephan Lee deliver a middle grade story that shines with humor, compassion, and just enough camp to make even the most stoic reader smile.
At its core, this is a story about belonging. Jae Han, a Korean-American boy who spends his time creating his drag superhero Donutella Hamachi, finds sanctuary in his neighborhood library — a haven for every kid who has ever felt too loud, too different, or too much. When that safe space is threatened by a greedy mayor, Jae and his friends rise to defend it, proving that even the smallest voices can make a difference.
Between the comic panels and heartfelt prose, this story balances joy and sincerity beautifully. The themes of immigrant identity, friendship, and civic engagement are handled with care and warmth, while the drag and pop-culture flair make it wonderfully modern and affirming.
• A love letter to libraries, art, and the kids who find themselves in both
• Uplifting, funny, and unapologetically fabulous
A charming and meaningful read that reminds us that libraries don’t just house stories, they create them.
by Kim Chi, Stephan Lee, illustrated by utomaru
Thank you to Candlewick Press for the copy.
Donutella Hamachi and the Library Avengers is a vibrant, heartfelt celebration of community, creativity, and the power of feeling seen. Kim Chi and Stephan Lee deliver a middle grade story that shines with humor, compassion, and just enough camp to make even the most stoic reader smile.
At its core, this is a story about belonging. Jae Han, a Korean-American boy who spends his time creating his drag superhero Donutella Hamachi, finds sanctuary in his neighborhood library — a haven for every kid who has ever felt too loud, too different, or too much. When that safe space is threatened by a greedy mayor, Jae and his friends rise to defend it, proving that even the smallest voices can make a difference.
Between the comic panels and heartfelt prose, this story balances joy and sincerity beautifully. The themes of immigrant identity, friendship, and civic engagement are handled with care and warmth, while the drag and pop-culture flair make it wonderfully modern and affirming.
• A love letter to libraries, art, and the kids who find themselves in both
• Uplifting, funny, and unapologetically fabulous
A charming and meaningful read that reminds us that libraries don’t just house stories, they create them.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
*received as an advance copy from the publisher
This book was so absolutely adorable I’m borderline annoyed with myself for letting it languish on my TBR shelf for months! The story is simple and sweet, with an artistic, slightly nerdy protagonist who will do anything to save the local library that has become his safe space - our kind of hero/kid! While little of the plotline is surprising, exactly, it’s the charming little details that make this book stand out. From a purse-designing mayor (who has to be taught by a group of preteens to do the right thing and remember that he was once an outcast too) to the bakery-inspired superhero alter-egos that inspire our protagonist, each one kept me giggling as I devoured the story in two very short sittings. While I almost expected a little more colour (the cover is gorgeously kawaii and bright) and a more drag-centric storyline, the book managed to subvert my expectations and make itself something unique and fun in the meantime. The story maybe would have been even better if it was a fully illustrated graphic novel, but it still works as a regular narrative with interspersed drawings - as “created” by Jae Han, aka the fabulous and indomitable Donutella!
This book was so absolutely adorable I’m borderline annoyed with myself for letting it languish on my TBR shelf for months! The story is simple and sweet, with an artistic, slightly nerdy protagonist who will do anything to save the local library that has become his safe space - our kind of hero/kid! While little of the plotline is surprising, exactly, it’s the charming little details that make this book stand out. From a purse-designing mayor (who has to be taught by a group of preteens to do the right thing and remember that he was once an outcast too) to the bakery-inspired superhero alter-egos that inspire our protagonist, each one kept me giggling as I devoured the story in two very short sittings. While I almost expected a little more colour (the cover is gorgeously kawaii and bright) and a more drag-centric storyline, the book managed to subvert my expectations and make itself something unique and fun in the meantime. The story maybe would have been even better if it was a fully illustrated graphic novel, but it still works as a regular narrative with interspersed drawings - as “created” by Jae Han, aka the fabulous and indomitable Donutella!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2025
TLDR: Feel good love letter to libraries. Book banning stories have become popular in the last 5 years and for real reason. Donutella Hamachi stands out for its complexity of characters and issues surrounding book banning.
12 year old first-gen Korean American Jae Han is devastated when he learns his city plans to shutter his local library to build a shopping mall. The library is his safe place and where his original superhero, Donutella Hamachi, a glamorous drag queen and alter ego comes to life.
When tries to convince the mayor of the library’s importance to the community he is brushed off. Undeterred, he rallies new and old friends and library allies to throw an Arts festival and prove to the mayor and the town the power of the library. Along the way he reckons with his place in his family and learns that people are sometimes more complex than we give them credit to be.
I loved Kim Chi’s style on Drag Race which compelled me to pick this up but it shined for me on its own merit.
What works:
*The graphic panels!! I loved it in the e-version and imagine how much better it would be in print
*The nuances of the library conflict and the villians (the mayor does not want to shut down the library because he hates books but because he does not recognize its value in the community and believes helping lift up local businesses is more important, he is also a minority who doesn’t fit the traditional businessman mold and finds himself enmeshed in a relationship of reciprocity for his biggest campaign donors)
*While in ways the stakes are high we never hit a deep nadir, when conflicts arise Jae Han is initially upset but his own superpower is reslience and adaptability
*Explores first generation American kid experiences like having to work at the family business, and having ones identity constrained by certain expectations
*Drag is not questioned for Jae Han and his friends, but there is also recognition that the world has had issues with drag in libraries (the library used to hold a Drag Storytime but was forced to end)
12 year old first-gen Korean American Jae Han is devastated when he learns his city plans to shutter his local library to build a shopping mall. The library is his safe place and where his original superhero, Donutella Hamachi, a glamorous drag queen and alter ego comes to life.
When tries to convince the mayor of the library’s importance to the community he is brushed off. Undeterred, he rallies new and old friends and library allies to throw an Arts festival and prove to the mayor and the town the power of the library. Along the way he reckons with his place in his family and learns that people are sometimes more complex than we give them credit to be.
I loved Kim Chi’s style on Drag Race which compelled me to pick this up but it shined for me on its own merit.
What works:
*The graphic panels!! I loved it in the e-version and imagine how much better it would be in print
*The nuances of the library conflict and the villians (the mayor does not want to shut down the library because he hates books but because he does not recognize its value in the community and believes helping lift up local businesses is more important, he is also a minority who doesn’t fit the traditional businessman mold and finds himself enmeshed in a relationship of reciprocity for his biggest campaign donors)
*While in ways the stakes are high we never hit a deep nadir, when conflicts arise Jae Han is initially upset but his own superpower is reslience and adaptability
*Explores first generation American kid experiences like having to work at the family business, and having ones identity constrained by certain expectations
*Drag is not questioned for Jae Han and his friends, but there is also recognition that the world has had issues with drag in libraries (the library used to hold a Drag Storytime but was forced to end)
November 24, 2025
this book has big "celebrity thought it would be easy to write a book for young readers" energy, sorry Kim Chi. It's cute, but it's didactic and simplistic. I personally enjoyed the MANY RuPaul's Drag Race mentions in here, and I know that some tweens watch RPDR but it feels like the target audience there is adults. This is like a diluted version of a Front Desk or Small Town Pride but with a wig on it.
IDK cute for young RPDR fans but not a strong rec from me otherwise UNFORTCH
IDK cute for young RPDR fans but not a strong rec from me otherwise UNFORTCH
January 19, 2026
we love a library saving story! libraries really deserve so much credit and love and I really love that this book could potentially show that to new middle grade readers.
at first I thought this was a graphic novel but it is an illustrative novel where most of it is a chapter book but there are illustrations within. it is about this middle school boy who learns that his local library, which is his favorite place in the world is going to be shut down so that they can build a strip mall. he channels a lot of his emotions through a comic that he writes with a superhero named Donutella.
I think this book does a good job of incorporating friendships and familiar relationships all while encouraging people to speak to their local and state representatives as well as protest and get involved for your community.
at first I thought this was a graphic novel but it is an illustrative novel where most of it is a chapter book but there are illustrations within. it is about this middle school boy who learns that his local library, which is his favorite place in the world is going to be shut down so that they can build a strip mall. he channels a lot of his emotions through a comic that he writes with a superhero named Donutella.
I think this book does a good job of incorporating friendships and familiar relationships all while encouraging people to speak to their local and state representatives as well as protest and get involved for your community.
December 15, 2025
This was so fun! I (obviously) love the whole theme of how important public libraries are to their communities. I love that Ms. Henny is such an incredible example of how librarians work to meet the needs of their patrons. I loved Jae Han's journey to embracing what makes happy. I also loved all the Drag Race references (a character named Pitt Cruz??? lolol)
Yeah, it wrapped up a bit cartoonishly neat, but I don't really care. It was heartwarming and I really enjoyed it.
***one think that bothered me is that the editor's obviously missed some spelling errors- "Appa" is called "Abba" a few times randomly and that threw me off***
Yeah, it wrapped up a bit cartoonishly neat, but I don't really care. It was heartwarming and I really enjoyed it.
***one think that bothered me is that the editor's obviously missed some spelling errors- "Appa" is called "Abba" a few times randomly and that threw me off***
October 2, 2025
Full video review: https://www.tiktok.com/@shereadytorea...
This was such a fun read. A great middle grade adventure that asserts the importance of community spaces, differences in learning preferences, and importance of literacy and access to books. The art style of the graphic novel sections were great. The characters were developed and the community felt full.
Disclosure: I received a free finished copy from the publisher. No review was required and all opinions are my own.
This was such a fun read. A great middle grade adventure that asserts the importance of community spaces, differences in learning preferences, and importance of literacy and access to books. The art style of the graphic novel sections were great. The characters were developed and the community felt full.
Disclosure: I received a free finished copy from the publisher. No review was required and all opinions are my own.
October 9, 2025
This was just SO. MUCH. FUN.
This book is a love letter to libraries and what they represent and honestly it's always good to hear some love for libraries (especially in the world we live in), but it's also about finding yourself, standing for what you believe in, and being true to yourself, and I love that in a middle grade novel.
Does the plot tie itself up into a nice, neat, perfect little bow? Yeah. It may not be the most realistic thing ever, but that's okay - not every story needs to be a mirror image of real life. This was delightful and I'm SO glad I read it!
This book is a love letter to libraries and what they represent and honestly it's always good to hear some love for libraries (especially in the world we live in), but it's also about finding yourself, standing for what you believe in, and being true to yourself, and I love that in a middle grade novel.
Does the plot tie itself up into a nice, neat, perfect little bow? Yeah. It may not be the most realistic thing ever, but that's okay - not every story needs to be a mirror image of real life. This was delightful and I'm SO glad I read it!
October 1, 2025
I asked to be on the tour for this book and to quote something for promotion. Well Stephen Lee and Kim Chi got me with just the Dedication. Librarians and libraries rock and this is a love letter to all of the people who make libraries run. We salute you. #TheLibraryIsOpen
“Thank you, Walker Books US, for providing this book for review consideration via Hear Our Voices Tours. All opinions are my own.”
“Thank you, Walker Books US, for providing this book for review consideration via Hear Our Voices Tours. All opinions are my own.”
October 11, 2025
Such a sweet treat! Jae Han escapes his middle school woes through drawing his alter ego: Donutella Hamachi, a fierce fashionista and crime fighter. But when the mayor threatens to shut down Jae Han's local library, he channels Donutella's power to fight back. A perfect book for all the guncles (gender neutral) to read to the kids in their lives!
October 25, 2025
This is awesome. It’s a middle school chapter book with sections of black and white graphic novel illustrations interspersed throughout the book. A bullied, misfit kid must make a plan to save the library he loves from being demolished for a new mall. Can he and a small group of friends, each with unique creative talents, pull it off?
December 11, 2025
This is the sort of book I needed as a kid and I’m so glad that Kim Chi was expanded her creativity from drag into writing. It truly has every message kids (and adults) need to hear: the importance of community libraries, arts programming, immigrant businesses, and the evils of capitalism. It is a bold and necessary piece of art. Tens across the board!
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