A review by readingwithtemperance
It's Boba Time for Pearl Li! by Nicole Chen

emotional hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Pearl Li is a 12 year old trying to save her favorite Boba Shop from closing down. And she is doing this by making and selling her amigurumi she crochets. 

You can't tell me that isn't the most wholesome thing you've ever heard! 

While I was reading, I wanted to curl up with my own boba. Or visit Boba Time to try all of the wonderful sounding flavors. I'd love to talk with Auntie Cha for hours too. 

I particularly loved seeing what all Pearl came up with. I was so excited seeing what she'd create next. Oscar the hot dog is of course my favorite though. 

There were so many lessons in this book such as: 

• Helping others
• Being open minded 
• Knowing when to apologize 
• Doing your passions for yourself not for others 
• And even a bit about running your own business!

I loved how real these tween friendships felt. I think we all wildy blew things out of proportion at 12 because  hello we're DEVELOPING. And this was absolutely showed in Boba Time.

Typically I don't like miscommunication in books, but I think it added the right amount of angst in this one. 

It was also healing seeing parents actually stop and listen to their child for once. And I loved the relationship with Pearl and her sister too!

If you're looking for something sweet and summery, this is it.

I need some boba ASAP.