Aku: Journey to Ibra

Gr 4-7–Aku, with his big imagination, dreams of adventure. But ever since his grandfather disappeared a year ago, his father has been extra protective. When Aku hears a strange noise coming from the basement, he can’t help but investigate. In a box marked with his name, Aku discovers a high-tech space helmet. With the helmet, he is able to transport himself to the planet Ibra. There, he learns his grandfather was protecting the beautiful planet from other humans who would abuse its resources before he was kidnapped. Aku, with help of his friends Trae and Benji, and some aliens too, will have to rescue his grandfather and save Ibra. This character may have gotten its start as an NFT, but the story it inspired shows no evidence of this and can stand on its own. The plot is compelling and fast paced, with nonstop adventure. Kids will relate to Aku’s many struggles with his family and with a school bully. They will also enjoy following along on his wild interplanetary journey to and from Ibra. Most of characters are diverse; Aku and his friends are Black. While ­violence is fairly low, characters do experience threats of death and danger.