Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Moral lessons artistically woven in top-shelf show.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Karma's World
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 2 parent reviews
What's the Story?
In KARMA'S WORLD, Karma Grant is a middle schooler who loves to make music to "express [her] feelings to the world." She writes lyrics in her journal, and performs her raps in front of her friends, family, and community. She faces challenges with the help of her parents. In each episode, she copes with issues having to do with race, confidence, identity, expression, and self-esteem. Will she be able to follow her dreams? Or will obstacles get in her way?
Is It Any Good?
Middle school issues get the star treatment in a show created by Black writers, actors, and producers, who've drawn from their own experiences. Heartfelt, complex issues that tweens face are artfully faced in Karma's World. In one touching episode, Karma's friends from different backgrounds touch her hair and ask why she doesn't have "normal" hair. After they leave, Karma's mother sits her down and speaks to her in a realistic, powerful way that will touch kids from all walks of life.
This series is full of empowering moments, which parents will appreciate. The message doesn't get in the way of the plot, however; it's blended with the action and movement of the characters' lives. Ultimately, this show does what the best shows do -- it uses art to inspire, empower, and elevate through storytelling. An excellent choice for young tweens.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Karma exhibits integrity in Karma's World. What happens when you lie about something? What do you do to have integrity?
Karma tries to communicate about important issues with her friends and family -- both by talking and rapping. How do you best communicate with your friends and family?
Karma's friends don't really use cellphones that much. Do kids in your middle school spend time on their cellphones?
TV Details
- Premiere date: October 15, 2021
- Cast: Ludacris , Tiffany Haddish
- Network: Netflix
- Genre: Kids' Animation
- Topics: Activism , Arts and Dance , Friendship , Great Girl Role Models , Middle School
- TV rating: TV-Y
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: February 18, 2023
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
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