Picture a Korean-Kiwi storyteller who spun Korean mythology into a magical middle-grade adventure—meet Graci Kim! A former diplomat with a knack for enchanting tales, Kim burst onto the literary scene with her bestselling debut, The Last Fallen Star. Her stories weave humor, heart, and cultural richness, captivating readers who crave fantasy with a fresh perspective.
From her diverse career as a cooking show host to her entrepreneurial ventures, Kim’s unique journey infuses her writing with vibrant authenticity. Her Gifted Clans trilogy has earned critical acclaim, blending Korean folklore with modern-day settings to create a world where witches and enchanted boba teas reign supreme. Ready to dive into her spellbinding universe?
The Making of Graci Kim
Born in New Zealand with Korean heritage, Graci Kim grew up immersed in the stories of her halmeoni (grandmother), which sparked her love for Korean mythology. As a Korean-Kiwi, she often felt invisible in the books she cherished, fueling her mission to write stories where diaspora kids shine. Before writing, Kim’s career was a whirlwind: she served as a New Zealand diplomat, hosted a cooking show, and even ran a business turning children’s drawings into plush toys. These experiences shaped her creative voice, blending global perspectives with a playful, heartfelt tone.
Kim’s writing journey began after rediscovering her childhood love for middle-grade novels. Enrolling in a Novel Writing Essentials course, she honed her craft and pitched her manuscript in a Twitter contest, catching the eye of literary agents. Her persistence paid off when Disney Hyperion’s Rick Riordan Presents picked up The Last Fallen Star, marking her as a rising star in children’s literature.
Graci Kim’s Unforgettable Stories
Kim’s Gifted Clans trilogy is a dazzling blend of Korean mythology and contemporary fantasy. The Last Fallen Star (2021) introduces Riley Oh, an adopted Korean-American girl navigating a world of witches and forbidden spells to save her sister. Praised by Rick Riordan for its seamless integration of Korean lore, the novel became a New York Times bestseller and a 2021 Goodreads Choice Award nominee.
The trilogy continues with The Last Fallen Moon (2022), where Riley grapples with her identity in a monster-filled underworld, and The Last Fallen Realm (2023), a thrilling finale that sees her confronting cosmic stakes. Entertainment Weekly called the series a “sparkling yarn,” and its vivid settings—from H-Mart’s secret temples to magical LA—are perfect for readers aged 8–12. Kim’s upcoming novel, Dreamslinger (April 2025), promises an X-Men-meets-Pokémon adventure set in a Korean magic school, showcasing her knack for inventive worlds.
Kim’s style is fast-paced yet heartfelt, weaving themes of belonging, sisterhood, and self-acceptance. Her Korean diaspora perspective adds depth, making her stories resonate with readers seeking diverse heroes. Whether it’s bulgogi tacos or BTS-inspired portals, her playful details keep readers hooked.
Why Graci Kim Matters
Graci Kim’s work fills a vital gap in middle-grade literature, offering Korean diaspora kids a mirror to see themselves as heroes. Her trilogy, optioned by the Disney Channel for a live-action series, has introduced Korean mythology to global audiences, earning accolades like the 2022 Sir Julius Vogel Award for Best New Talent. By blending cultural pride with universal themes, Kim inspires young readers to embrace their identities.
Her impact extends beyond books. Through TED talks and social media, Kim advocates for diverse representation, encouraging aspiring writers to tell their stories. As a Korean-Kiwi author, she’s paving the way for more inclusive fantasy, proving that every voice matters.
About Graci Kim
- Born: New Zealand, with Korean heritage
- Key Works: The Last Fallen Star, The Last Fallen Moon, The Last Fallen Realm, Dreamslinger (2025)
- Awards: 2021 Goodreads Choice Award nominee, 2022 Sir Julius Vogel Award
- Fun Fact: Once ran a business turning kids’ drawings into plush toys!
Snag The Last Fallen Star and dive into Graci Kim’s magical world of Korean witches and unbreakable sisterhood!