The Magic Lunch Box

Fourth-grader Ben Lee is anxious to make new friends at his new school in Michigan. But on his first day, things take a turn for the worse. The other kids act grossed out by the homemade kimbap in his lunch box. Embarassed, Ben makes an impulsive wish, and soon strange things start happening. A ham sandwich appears in his lunch box inside instead of Mom’s homemade mandoo. At first, Ben is thrilled. But soon the magical switcheroos start happening regularly and to other things—like Ben's favorite Korean cartoon, Tobot V. And the special pencils his grandma sent from Korea. How far will the lunchbox magic go? And how far will Ben go to set things right?"

Interest Level: 1-3 / Reading Level: Ages 6-9

About the Author

Hanna Kim is a children’s book author and middle school English language arts teacher. Just like Ben, she was made fun of for her Korean lunches, and it took her some time to be proud of her culture. In her free time, Hanna loves to draw, read, make fun crafts, and eat Korean snacks. She lives in Michigan with her husband, Benjamin, and cat, Zoro.

About the Illustrator

Emily Paik is an illustrator who lives in South Korea with two dogs ,Tofu and Doona. She loves to go on adventures with her dogs and gets inspired by the colors and shapes of nature. She hopes to create illustrations that will make people’s hearts feel warm and smile.