Gula Gulali has the magical ability to turn things around her into delicious dessert. Though her powers should be a treat, as a Magi she struggles to fit in among her classmates, non-magical people known as Terrans. Rather than get to know Gulu, her Terran classmates exclude her. Gula struggles to fit in and decides that using her magic is becoming too much of a risk. As her aunt and a magically animated puppet name Timmy watch over her, they become concerned that Gula may stop using her magic entirely. Gula’s aunt comes up with a plan and invites a Magi prince to come experience life with Gula in the Terran world. Prince Yoga will wear a cuff that prevents him from using magic, but it doesn’t dampen his desire to explore the Terran world he’s obsessed with. Gula is invited to play the role of the witch in her school’s production of Hansel and Gretel. Now expected to help guide Yoga around the school and back home again, Gula finds herself frustrated and angry at her loss of free time, not to mention struggling to memorize her lines. When disaster strikes just before the play, Gula and Yoga will have to team up to save the day.
Writer-couple team Johanes Park and Jessica Leman tell the adorable young adult story, Magical Sweet Gula. Johanes Park was inspired to create this due to growing up with a dual Korean- Indonesian identity. The entire book is brightly colored and fun to read. This book hits home for anyone who has felt out of place.
Magical Sweet Gula is available in stores September 15, 2026.
