Rayven is a 6yo AA child who moves to Seoul, South Korea after the loss of her parents. This story follows her as she is adapting to a new culture and life as an adoptee to the Chois. On her first day of school, she stands up to a bully and is then enrolled into a Hapkido class as her adoptive parents determine some discipline and support might be helpful. There she befriends her bully as they find they have more in common than they thought. The story is beautifully illustrated in this manga and conveys how we can grow through adversity and challenges, and sometimes even befriend our foes.

I really enjoyed this story, which will touch readers of any age, and uplifts diversity, inclusion, resilience and community support in grief.

My thanks to Shequeta L. Smith, Shero Comics and NetGalley for the gifted DRC of “Young Grandmaster Choi”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

This delightful story of a young Black girl's journey to South Korea is beautifully written and illustrated. Young Rayven Choi overcomes unthinkable tragedy and begins to build a new life with her adopted family in South Korea, learning lessons about friendship, leadership and finding your own strength. This graphic novel is a must-read for any young girl, particularly young girls of color who rarely see themselves represented in the comic world.

After losing her parents at a very early age, Raven be brave and start the 1st grade in a new country, much different from her own. While trying to make friends, she angers another jealous classmate who insults her hair and tries to pick a fight.
Raven’s new family realize that she will need to learn how to safely defend herself from school bullies. So she is enrolled in Jack’s House of Hapkido. In a twist of fate, her jealous classmate also enrolls the same day.

Young Grandmaster Choi is the beginning of a beautiful story.

Enrolling Children (and adults!) in martial arts is not only a way to teach them to defend themselves. But also a fantastic way to boost confidence, discipline and control. (and of course it’s great exercise!) As a martial artist, I can’t wait to see how Raven’s journey continues and who she grows into a grandmaster.

This looks like it is going to be a promising series for children. The artwork is lovely with engaging and entertaining main characters. The main character, Raven, has lost both her parents and she moves to Korea where she is adopted by the Choi family. There is an interesting back story here that we are not party to. Why would she move to Seoul to live? Alas we can only guess.

Raven tries her best to settle down to life with her new family but her toughest challenge is her new school, where she clashes with the school bully. Both of them end up in Hapkido classes where they decide to work together but do they?

Unfortunately this engaging and well drawn graphic novel ends there because this is only volume one. It is a really good start though and definitely one I want to read more of.

Copy provided via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.

This captivating Manga-style comic book introduces readers to the life of a six-year-old African American army brat who finds herself in Seoul, South Korea, after the loss of her parents. Adopted by the Choi family, Rayven's adventures begin at Seoul Elementary School, where she faces challenges and bonds with unexpected allies. The story beautifully captures themes of friendship, identity, and personal growth, all while weaving in the exciting world of Hapkido martial arts. This is a tale that resonates with readers of all ages, promoting cultural diversity, resilience, and the power of unity.

Hey, young comic book fans! Get ready for a super cool adventure that's all about bravery, friendship, and a little kick-butt action. Young Grandmaster Choi is like a Manga masterpiece that follows Rayven Johnson – a kid with a super interesting life story – from Africa to South Korea. Yeah, you heard it right – she's got stories to tell!

But it's not all serious stuff. Rayven's got some rad adventures, like school bullies, unexpected friendships, and even Hapkido classes that'll make you wanna join in. It's like a whole new world of culture, action, and good vibes.

Rayven has lost both her parents. However, she is adopted by the Choi family who just so happen to live in Seoul, South Korea. As a young African American child, this is a lot of change for someone so young. Rayven goes with the flow, though. As in any school, there are nice kids and then there are bullies. Rayven has a run in with both. I loved this graphic novel! The illustrations are amazing, and the story covers themes of cultural adaptation and family. This is a great read for children and parents. It presents some valuable lessons such as perseverance and diversity. I am looking forward to seeing more. Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity to review this ARC.

I enjoyed reading this book! I feel like I'd relate to Rayven feeling nervous and scared when I decide to travel to Korea for the very first time. I definitely relate to having poofy hair and just like Rayven I need to stop letting my fears get to me and think of the positives such as, trying to make new friends in Korea and enjoying my time there. I can't wait to go to Korea one day, please wish me luck!