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561 reviews for:

The Storm Runner

J.C. Cervantes

3.79 AVERAGE


I probably would have liked this book better if I hadn’t read Percy Jackson: Lightning Thief a couple months ago. It felt like a rip off of Percy Jackson...a not as funny Mayan version.

Really fun book that my 9.5 yo and I listened to. The narration on the audiobook is very good! Loved the depth of the story and all the action. It had us engaged right from the start. I kept looking for opportunities to listen to the story to find out what was going to happen next!

Another in the “Rick Riordan Presents” series, this explores Mayan mythology. I really love that Riordan is helping authors explore world mythology, but I wish there was a little more originality in this story. There are so many similarities to both the Harry Potter and Percy Jackson books that I stopped keeping track. There’s nothing really wrong with the story - it’s fun and fast and very engaging - but it’s been told before. 50%pick/50%SoSo

Thanks to NetGalley and Rick Riordan Presents for the eARC. This review deals with the published edition, since that’s what I ended up reading.
I didn’t particular care for this book. The story was alright, but I didn’t really like the narrating style. However, I definitely think a middle-grade reader would love Zane’s distinctive voice.

3.75 ⭐️



I found myself intrigued and anxious for more in this story. However, like most series, this is just a jumping off point to a larger plot. This was a lot of set up, which is necessary.

I found the representation a highlight in this book. There were Latinx & disabled representation. Which is important for those looking to find themselves in books.

What I have come to learn, however, is that I do not like obviously stubborn characters. It seems that what authors are attempting to do nowadays is make female characters snarky and stubborn on purpose. Which I understand that it’s vital that girls understand that they can be just as snarky & stubborn as a man. However, I believe it’s becoming overkill. I get it. It seems all the books I have read either by Rick Riordan, and now from his imprint, have the same formula for female characters. I am finding that it is hard to tell the difference between the females.

There are some clear differences between Annabeth, Sam (Magnus Chase series), Meg (Trials of Apollo), and now Brooks. But if you stripped those differences away, their personality formula is exactly the same and I doubt I could tell them apart. You could give Sam, Meg’s personality and it wouldn’t change the character or her goals. It seems to be a cardboard cut out as far personality traits are concerned.

They can all be different ethnically, religiously/spiritually, racially, etc. All of which are vitally important, but how about diversity of personality? Just a little bit. Show a broader spectrum of personalities in women. We’re not all snarky and stubborn. Just like we weren’t all dim witted and only there to serve as an ornament for the male, leading character. I understand we’re trying to represent stronger women; as so many novels have lacked to do before these books were written, but give me a variety of personality. I don’t need cardboard cut outs.

All that being said, I enjoyed learning about Maya gods, the culture, and the stories behind it. This is a series I will continue to read because these stories need to be told.

I loved every character to bits, Zane is just so inspiring with not letting his disability rule his life!
I need the sequel right now!!

“I never wanted any of this. But you didn't give me a choice. I ended up here because of some sacred oath I didn't even take, and because I made you so mad you wanted me dead.”


A brand new mythology novel for children. The Storm Runner provides you with humors and light stories that’ll make you want to know more about Mayan mythology, especially if you’re new to it.

Zane Obispo is 13 years old boy who lives in New Mexico. He loves hiking to the volcano—The Beast—on his backyard with his dog, Rosie, despite the disability Zane has. He lives with his mother, brother, dog and lovely neighbors. Everything seems normal until one night, when Zane is hiking Beast with Rosie where he witnesses the weirdest thing in the world.

Since then, Zane will unravel some secrets he’s not ready to hear. But the fate already has its eyes on Zane, whether he’s ready or not. The world is depending on Zane now and he has to stop it from being destroyed.


“Personally, I think you should be thanking me, but gods never show gratitude, do they?”


Let’s talk about the characters. First, Zane Obispo. I love him! Cervantes successfully portray a 13 years old boy. Zane is a curious character and not afraid to step out of his comfort zone. He’s as confused as the other godborn characters from Rick Riordan character, but couple of time Zane is angry at everything—for the path he doesn’t want to take or about his dad. Although I found it very cute when Zane interacts with other mythology beings, it’s like watching a junior high school children crazy over their new favorite boy band.

Brooks, in other hand, is a mysterious character. I don’t know whether Cervantes wanted to make a point about
Spoilerhow you shouldn’t trust a nawal
or Brooks has trust issue for some reason. The issue I have is that she could develop into stronger character—not just some sidekick—but Cervantes failed to do that. I hope that she’d play more important role on the next book.


“I just want you to know I don't regret any of it. I'd do it all again, even knowing I ended up. Okay, maybe I do have one regret-that I won't get to see your shocked faces when you read this. Anyhow, delivery made. See you on the other side.”


Overall, I do enjoy the book. I’m sure you will too if you’re familiar with how things work in Riordanverse. I actually can’t wait for the next book to be published because I’m not going to give up on this!

Will I recommend you to read? Yes, especially if you love Rick Riordan’s book.
My rating: 3.5/5 stars.
Favorites shelf: No.
adventurous hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

The book was good but the story was dragging for a little bit too long. Other than that it was an okay book.
adventurous challenging informative mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Liked
*The Mayan mythology.  I learned a lot
*Boy's pov
*Action and adventure

Disliked
*Felt too similar to Percy Jackson
*Didn't connect with any characters or care about their plights
*Felt it dragged on longer than necessary with the postscripts being completely unneeded.