Language: G (0 swears); Adult Content: G (references to death, some peril); Violence: G
BUYING ADVISORY: MS - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
12yo twins Mei and Yun live with their grandpa in a small village in southern China during the Ming Dynasty (1500s.) Everyone in town is excitedly awaiting the arrival of the emperor’s son, who is coming all the way to their village to taste Grandpa’s famous mooncakes, but when the mooncakes taste horrible, Grandpas is arrested and taken to the capital to be put on trial. The twins have no choice but to go to the capital to try to save Grandpa and their village, which was mysteriously cursed at the same time as the emperor’s son arrived. Using their newly discovered magical ability and help from their new friends, the twins are able to find what they need to clear Grandpa’s name and free their village from the curse.
This is a fun fairytale adventure with elements of Chinese culture, folklore, and history that I really liked. It was well-paced and exciting, with a series of problems the twins have to overcome using their wits and bravery. There’s just the right amount of danger without ever being scary. The main characters are good role models and there’s a powerful message of perseverance in the face of difficulties. I loved the twins’ relationship and how they balance each other and work together using their different skills and personalities. It was also a nice change to have a traditional Chinese story instead of the European stories we usually get.
Reviewer: Andrea R.
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