PAHUA AND THE DRAGON'S SECRET

In this follow-up to Pahua and the Soul Stealer (2021), all that stands between the world and destruction is one (prospective) shaman warrior.

After inadvertently breaking one of the seals that’s imprisoning angry thunder god Xov, Pahua Moua knows that she needs to repair it—after all, she’s the reincarnation of the hero Shee Yee. But Pahua is not quite 12, and though she’s received an invitation to tour the School for Shamanic Arts and Spiritual Mastery, she isn’t a shaman warrior yet. She hasn’t even been officially accepted. Pahua decides that repairing the seal can also serve as her hero’s quest and secure her place at the school. Along with sarcastic cat spirit Miv and her new friend, shaman warrior Zhong, Pahua journeys through familiar lands and into new ones and comes face to face with dragons. Completing her quest will require allies, sacrifice, and an exploration of her relationships with her family members and Zhong. Pahua’s signature humor and confidence shine through, even as she grapples with being in Shee Yee’s shadow, the consequences of a past life she doesn’t even remember, and the impact of her own actions. Steeped in Hmong mythology and brimming with Hmong American culture, this strong sequel leaves room for more adventures to come.

A wonderful balance of adventure, wit, and tough decisions.