‘Secret Fort Chop’ sure to be a hit with kids

By Kathryn Reed

The importance of practicing and asking for help are the major themes of the latest Fujimini Adventure Series. Like the previous books, it is geared to preschoolers through first-graders.

“Karate Kid” is what came to mind when reading “Silver Bunny and the Secret Fort Chop” by Eileen Wacker. “Wax on, wax off” was going through my head.

The book involves a colorful cast of animal characters who are bored with their Taekwondo class. These rabbits and hamsters have minds of their own and ideas to circumvent the adults.

But it doesn’t take them long to realize they don’t know as much as they think they do.

The message is clear, but not preachy.

Illustrations by Curt Spurging are bound to keep the attention of youngsters.

Wacker blends Chinese, Korean and Japanese cultures into her books.

“Asian cultures take immense pride in their customs and traditions,” Wacker said in a press release. “The characters in the books represent this in a way that strives to honor those traditions and share the wonder of Asian culture with children everywhere.”

The back of the book has a glossary of terms so the learning can be carried further if so desired. Things like Taekwondo, Noni bush and Mount Fuji are defined.

While there is a message, the book is also fun and light-hearted.