Scan barcode
A review by tinyjude
Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor by Xiran Jay Zhao
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
Gaming, Chinese history, mythology and legends of emperors roasting each other while possessing kids, mix in this fast-paced book that will surely become a middle grade favourite in the next years. The social commentary mixes with several cultural references to videogames, movies, etc creating some hilarious parallelisms while criticizing tyranical governments, (American) patriotism, racism and xenophobia, patriarchy and even slightly heteronormativity. Zachary is a already a gay mess and we love him for it.
As a side note, I found many similarities with Percy Jackson, granted bc it's the only middle age book I have read in a long time and because both follow a very classic structure, but still both are very charismatic and enjoyable, so if you have read Percy Jackson, you will surely fall in love with this book, GIVE IT A TRY! Xiran does a phenomenal job and I need more books by them.
As a side note, I found many similarities with Percy Jackson, granted bc it's the only middle age book I have read in a long time and because both follow a very classic structure, but still both are very charismatic and enjoyable, so if you have read Percy Jackson, you will surely fall in love with this book, GIVE IT A TRY! Xiran does a phenomenal job and I need more books by them.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Islamophobia, War, Xenophobia, Racism, and Colonisation
Moderate: Genocide
Minor: Suicide