Monkey King and the World of Myths

March 1, 2024

Gr 3-7-The Monkey King tale crosses over into Greek mythology. Sun Wukong, born from a stone, is destined to become the mightiest beast and save the three worlds. He is different from the other monkeys and does not fit in, so he leaves his realm and enters the world of humans. There, he still faces loneliness, so he desires to become a god instead, despite cautions from the god Venus that it will not ensure that he will be loved and worshipped. Transforming into a bug, he sneaks a ride to the Heavenly Palace. After being captured, he is told that the Age of Monsters is close and already threatening a Western land. If he becomes a monster hunter and completes his missions, they will grant him godhood. Sun takes on the challenge and is sent to Greece. Many elements of the lore of the Monkey King are represented in the book: Sun has transformation powers, wields a staff that shrinks and grows at his command, and rides a cloud. The story transitions into Greek mythology, where Lam really takes liberties like Cerberus being a puppy in need of potty-training, and the real monster of the labyrinth not being the Minotaur. Well-defined panels are easy to follow and filled with cute artwork. The story is in full color, which works well with the sometimes-minimal backgrounds. VERDICT A fun introduction to the Monkey King for a younger audience, with room for sequels. Recommended.-Lisa Rowland

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 1, 2024
Worlds collide when brazen Chinese Monkey King Sun Wukong sneaks into the heavenly kingdom and strikes a deal to become a monster hunter and the first beast to earn his godhood. Seeking the Yao-Qi, a monster transformed by an evil energy, Wukong travels to the far west, meeting gods, humans, and creatures from Greek mythology. Although considered a lowly beast by gods and humans, energetic and curious Wukong is instrumental to challenging the prejudices of those around him. Lam intertwines lessons in employing critical thinking skills to understand others with fast-paced writing and appealing panel illustrations. With plenty of humor, adventure, and heart, this first book in a projected graphic novel series makes for a rousing read. A character glossary provides additional information and an invitation to explore their original stories. In a note, Lam discusses how the "mixed-cultural experience" of growing up in Hong Kong and Los Angeles inspired her story. Kristine Techavanich

(Copyright 2024 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

January 1, 2024
Worlds collide when brazen Chinese Monkey King Sun Wukong sneaks into the heavenly kingdom and strikes a deal to become a monster hunter and the first beast to earn his godhood. Seeking the Yao-Qi, a monster transformed by an evil energy, Wukong travels to the far west, meeting gods, humans, and creatures from Greek mythology. Although considered a lowly beast by gods and humans, energetic and curious Wukong is instrumental to challenging the prejudices of those around him. Lam intertwines lessons in employing critical thinking skills to understand others with fast-paced writing and appealing panel illustrations. With plenty of humor, adventure, and heart, this first book in a projected graphic novel series makes for a rousing read. A character glossary provides additional information and an invitation to explore their original stories. In a note, Lam discusses how the "mixed-cultural experience" of growing up in Hong Kong and Los Angeles inspired her story.

(Copyright 2024 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)