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merble_dywin 's review for:

The Shadow of Kyoshi by F.C. Yee
4.25
adventurous emotional medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

A strong sequel continuing Kyoshi’s journey to establish herself as the avatar. There were a few things I liked less about this book than the Rise of Kyoshi. The pacing was less consistent and there wasn’t as much humor, leading to an overall darker tone and the last third of the book feeling rushed. Kyoshi’s stubbornness and judgments about Kuruk were frustrating at times, and combined with the pacing issues there’s less payoff when we see her grow. That being said, I love that the author doesn’t speak down to the YA audience and there are some truly beautiful moments of writing, especially in the more emotional scenes. Even though over 200 years pass between this book and the Kyoshi we see in the original show, you can easily see how she grows into the future version of Kyoshi and how she carries the lessons she learns throughout her life. I can’t wait to delve into more of the Avatar extended universe!