Kung Fu Roo: Enter the Roo by Anh Do. Graphic art by Jeremy Ley

Kung Fu Roo - Enter the Roo is a lively and colourful graphic novel that takes readers on an unexpected adventure; blending martial arts, humour, and a touch of the supernatural. Anh Do’s story follows three friends - Kai, Charley and Harry - who are on a train heading to a highly anticipated Kung Fu competition, when things take a strange and dangerous turn.

The plot kicks off with robbers taking over the train, aiming to steal passengers' valuables. As if that’s not enough, a meteor strikes, releasing a mysterious purple goo that changes everything. Kai wakes up in a hospital and discovers he’s not feeling quite right. Thinking it is just a side effect from the accident, he is really thrown when he begins having cravings for lettuce and, even more bizarrely, discovering he can understand kangaroo conversations! When he talks with his friends, they come to the realisation that the goo from the meteor must have merged them with some animals that were on the train too. They then realise that they have all developed some unusual new powers.

As they grapple with their newfound abilities, Kai, Charley, and Harry decide they need superhero names. But before they can work these out, they hear that the train robbers have escaped and are causing chaos. The trio realise they’ve been thrust into the role of unexpected heroes. With their animal powers in tow, they set out to stop the villains and save the day.

While the story takes some time to gather momentum, it builds to an action-packed, thrilling conclusion that leaves readers eagerly awaiting the next instalment. Anh Do’s knack for blending humour with exciting plot twists keeps the narrative engaging. Jeremy Ley’s vibrant illustrations add to the novel's captivation, bringing the animal-human hybrid heroes and their adventures to life with expressive, colourful artwork.

Kung Fu Roo is perfect for young readers who enjoy action, humour and twisting tales. It combines a fun plot with themes of friendship, courage and teamwork, making it an entertaining and exciting read.

Themes: Heroes, Teamwork, Action, Supernatural, Friendship, Problem solving, Animals.

Michelle O'Connell