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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Dulcie and Duke, the Magical Monkey by Paul B. Kennedy, is a children’s book that takes its characters on a magical adventure in Vietnam. Dulcie is an eight-year-old girl who recently moved to Hanoi with her parents and befriends Duke. Dulcie initially hesitates to explore her new surroundings and feels sad about moving to a new country. She’s reluctant to try new foods and embrace the culture until Duke encourages her to try new things. Together, they visit various places, including a restaurant where Dulcie tastes Bun Cha and Sa Pa, where she learns about rice paddies. Duke uses a magical wrench to create doorways to different locations, such as Ha Long Bay and the Mekong River. Each place highlights the beauty and culture of Vietnam, including local foods and festivals, while emphasizing themes of adventure, friendship, and trying new things.
Paul B. Kennedy inspires curiosity and compassion through travel and exploration, inviting young readers to see the world through Dulcie’s eyes as she gradually becomes more confident. Dulcie and Duke, the Magical Monkey encourages children to approach unfamiliar places with openness instead of fear. Kennedy’s descriptions of food, landscapes, and local customs offer gentle entry points for children unfamiliar with Vietnam. Vector illustrations by Syifa Hanna bring each scene to life with vibrant color palettes and expressive character designs that enhance the story’s sense of movement. Together, the writing and artwork create a warm guide for young readers who may be experiencing their own changes. The author’s personal experience of leaving the US to explore the world and eventually settling in Vietnam gives the story an authentic voice, grounding Dulcie’s discoveries in real places and emotions that reflect what it’s like to build a life far from home.
