Some events remind us exactly why we love books and today was one of those days.
We had the incredible privilege of hosting the launch celebration for Graci Kim's new novel, 'Royalslinger', and it was one of the biggest, most magical events we've ever held. With our largest turnout yet, both author talk sessions were completely packed as families travelled from around New Zealand to celebrate the next adventure in the Dreamslinger universe.
I'd decorated the shop and event space with giant handmade paper flowers and fantasy backdrops and elements. As someone who genuinely loves Dreamslinger, I really wanted to create a whimsical setting that brought the magic in the book to life. From the moment guests walked through the doors, I wanted there to be a feeling that they had stepped into the pages of Graci's books.
Graci looked absolutely beautiful in a traditional Korean hanbok, with a soft pink skirt, sky blue top and gorgeous white flower detailing. Her daughter Skye and husband Neil also wore traditional Korean dress, while Graci's very stylish mum helped children try on beautiful hanbok throughout the day. It was a wonderful way to celebrate the Korean culture that is woven throughout the Dreamslinger series.
An author who truly connects with her readers
Both of her talks were a HUGE success!
Graci shared 10 things you might not know about the Dreamslinger universe, giving readers a behind-the-scenes look at how the world came to life. The children had so many thoughtful questions, asking about everything from her journey to becoming an author to where the Dreampanions and mysterious Nightjoy creatures came from.
My favourite moments of the day came from the kids questions! When asked who had read Royalslinger one little girls hand shot up as she proudly told everyone that she had not only read it... but she had read it ten times! For context - the book was only released 4 days ago! Another was when a young fan keenly asked Graci if next time she could please make her talk longer (this was half an hour in) as she was having so much fun that she wanted to hear more!
What stood out most was seeing Graci through the eyes of her readers. To the children, she wasn't just an author, she was a star. Many happily queued for more than half an hour just to meet her, and Graci made time to chat with every single one. One little girl asked why she had become a writer, and as Graci shared her answer, you could almost see her world open up. It was a beautiful reminder that the stories we love as children, and the people who write them, can inspire dreams that last a lifetime.
Seeing children proudly hand over their treasured, well-read copies of 'Dreamslinger' to be signed alongside their brand new copies of 'Royalslinger'. It was a beautiful reminder of the lasting connection Graci has created with her readers. She also spoke to several children in Korean, including one young reader who had started learning the language after reading the book!
This just shows how Graci has an incredible ability to connect with her young readers. She made every child feel included, encouraging their curiosity and reminding them that stories begin with imagination and believing in yourself.
Born in Korea and raised in New Zealand, Graci originally worked in diplomacy and public policy before deciding to chase her childhood dream of becoming an author. That leap of faith led to her internationally bestselling 'Gifted Clans' series, and now the Dreamslinger books are introducing a whole new generation of readers to her joyful storytelling.
The story that touched every heart
The most moving moment of the day came when Graci spoke about the real-life people who have inspired characters in her books. She shared the story behind Mason Hewett, the character in the 'Dreamslinger', duology who is dedicated to a real Auckland boy named Mason.
Graci first met Mason at one of her book signings when he was just ten years old. She described him as sunshine personified, with a cheeky grin, a brilliant sense of humour and a heart of gold. In late 2023, Mason was diagnosed with an incurable Stage 4 brain tumour and was given just twelve months to live.
Together, Graci and Mason created the character of Mason Hewett, giving him the same heritage, love of music and cheeky personality. His Dreampanion, Rico, was named after Mason's beloved raccoon soft toy, which accompanied him through many of his hospital visits.
Mason courageously defied the odds for far longer than anyone expected, but sadly passed away earlier this year. Graci had a life-sized cut out of Mason for everyone to see and during the talk, she invited his mum to join her to share a little about the incredible boy who inspired the character. She also brought along the real Rico, making it an incredibly moving moment for everyone in the room.
There wasn't a dry eye in the room. It was a beautiful reminder that stories can honour real people, celebrate courage and leave a lasting legacy of hope.
A day filled with magic
After the talks, families enjoyed an activity hub inspired by the books. Children designed their own Nightjoys, made colourful friendship bracelets, crafted butterfly mail to take home, and made their own dreampanion masks.
A huge table of Korean snacks featured throughout the books was one of the biggest hits, with children excited to try the treats they'd only ever read about. The hanbok station was also busy all day, with children delighted to dress up and immerse themselves in the world that inspired the stories.
Throughout the morning, Graci spent time with every reader, chatting, taking photos and signing books. Seeing children leave clutching their signed copies and bouncing with excitement after meeting their favourite author was incredibly special.
Every child also received one of Graci's Impossible Bracelets. As Graci explained, if you make room for a little hope in the word impossible, you discover something much more powerful: I'm possible.
It was such a simple but inspiring message, and one that perfectly captured the spirit of the day. We also gave away adorable Palm Pals, the Gremlin and the Terra Potted Plant plushies as prizes, representing the way Dreampanions are grown in the Dreamslinger world. They were the perfect magical keepsake for young readers.
About 'Royalslinger'
'Royalslinger' continues the thrilling Dreamslinger adventure, taking readers deeper into Graci's imaginative world of magic, friendship and courage.
Described as "X-Men at a Korean Hogwarts," the series is perfect for fans of 'Amari and the Night Brothers', 'Nevermoor' and 'Keeper of the Lost Cities'. It's ideal for readers aged 8 to 13 years, although we know plenty of grown-up kids who are just as captivated.
One of the book's most touching threads is Aria's Lullaby, a beautiful reminder of the themes of hope, family and belonging that sit at the heart of the series.
Thank you, Graci
I believe that there are many authors who write wonderful stories. But then there are authors like Graci Kim, who have the rare ability to make every reader they meet feel seen, so special, encouraged and inspired.
From the packed talks to the smiling faces, the great questions, the hugs, the photos and the excitement of children so proudly carrying home their signed books, today was everything I hoped it would be and more.
To Graci, Neil, Skye and your wonderful family, thank you for allowing us to be part of such a special day. We are so grateful to have hosted the launch of 'Royalslinger' at Book Hero HQ and I can honestly say, this has been my favourite event yet!
And to every family who joined us, thank you for making this one of the most joyful community events we've ever held.
Events like this are also a reminder of what makes Book Hero so special. While we're proud to now deliver books to more than 100,000 New Zealanders across the country, our heart is also in creating moments like these within our Auckland community. Nothing compares to seeing young readers discovering a love of reading and experience the magic of books that only a real bookshop can bring.