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Paper Dragons #1
The Fight for the Hidden Realm
A 12-year-old girl wins an invitation to train as an apprentice to immortals in the first book of the new must-read magical series destined to take the world by storm —p erfect for fans of Amari and the Night Brothers, Skandar and Eragon.
Let the competition begin!
An outsider in her village above the cloud sea, 12-year-old orphan Yeung Zhi Ging’s only hope of escape is to win the single invitation to train as a an apprentice to the immortals. After her ill-fated attempt to impress the Silhouette scout leads to a dragon attack on the jade mountain, Zhi Ging is sure that her chances, and her life, are over. But the scout spots her potential and offers her protection and a second chance. She’s in.
In her lessons in Hok Woh, the underwater realm of the immortals, Zhi Ging must face the challenging trials set by her teachers to prove that she’s worthy of being a Silhouette—despite her rivals' attempts to sabotage her. But as Zhi Ging’s power grows, so do the rumours of the return of the Fui Gwai, an evil spirit that turns people into grey-eyed thralls.
When the impossible happens and the Fui Gwai attack the Silhouettes, can Zhi Ging use her newly uncovered talents to save her friends and the world beyond? Or will the grey-eyed spirit consume them all?
“A soaring, luminous new world." —Jessica Townsend, New York Times bestselling author of The Nevermoor series
Let the competition begin!
An outsider in her village above the cloud sea, 12-year-old orphan Yeung Zhi Ging’s only hope of escape is to win the single invitation to train as a an apprentice to the immortals. After her ill-fated attempt to impress the Silhouette scout leads to a dragon attack on the jade mountain, Zhi Ging is sure that her chances, and her life, are over. But the scout spots her potential and offers her protection and a second chance. She’s in.
In her lessons in Hok Woh, the underwater realm of the immortals, Zhi Ging must face the challenging trials set by her teachers to prove that she’s worthy of being a Silhouette—despite her rivals' attempts to sabotage her. But as Zhi Ging’s power grows, so do the rumours of the return of the Fui Gwai, an evil spirit that turns people into grey-eyed thralls.
When the impossible happens and the Fui Gwai attack the Silhouettes, can Zhi Ging use her newly uncovered talents to save her friends and the world beyond? Or will the grey-eyed spirit consume them all?
“A soaring, luminous new world." —Jessica Townsend, New York Times bestselling author of The Nevermoor series
384 pages, Hardcover
First published March 5, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
January 25, 2024
A beautifully written fantasy debut inspired by Chinese culture and folklore. Thank you to the publishers for sending me an early proof copy of the book to read! The story was something that I was eagerly anticipating as someone who is British Chinese, it is exactly the sort of representation for children that I want to see being published!
Child me would have loved to read about a Chinese inspired fantasy book with a magical underwater world with immortals, adventure and adorable animal companions. Zhi Ging is a character that I would’ve been able to relate to and see someone like myself in a book.
Firstly, I cannot get over how lyrical the writing was as there were so many passages that invoked vivid imagery of this well crafted world. So much of the magic and concepts were unique and not something I have come across before. It was so refreshing to have something new and that I had to stop and think about. It also did not read like a children’s book and is something that I think anyone at any age can enjoy. The story was fast paced and I loved our main character Zhi Ging, seeing her journey and the adventures and learning she went through.
The end portion of the book really picked up in pace and now I am eagerly awaiting news of book 2 and to see where our protagonist goes next.
Overall I highly recommend this book if you want a fantasy with lyrical writing, a new world with unique magic, or if you haven’t read any Chinese inspired fantasy before, then I think this is the perfect place to start!
Child me would have loved to read about a Chinese inspired fantasy book with a magical underwater world with immortals, adventure and adorable animal companions. Zhi Ging is a character that I would’ve been able to relate to and see someone like myself in a book.
Firstly, I cannot get over how lyrical the writing was as there were so many passages that invoked vivid imagery of this well crafted world. So much of the magic and concepts were unique and not something I have come across before. It was so refreshing to have something new and that I had to stop and think about. It also did not read like a children’s book and is something that I think anyone at any age can enjoy. The story was fast paced and I loved our main character Zhi Ging, seeing her journey and the adventures and learning she went through.
The end portion of the book really picked up in pace and now I am eagerly awaiting news of book 2 and to see where our protagonist goes next.
Overall I highly recommend this book if you want a fantasy with lyrical writing, a new world with unique magic, or if you haven’t read any Chinese inspired fantasy before, then I think this is the perfect place to start!
January 19, 2024
Starting off the year of the dragon with such an incredible story! 🤩🐉✨ Full review coming later but really I am lost for words- I LOVED THIS BOOK
February 4, 2024
There’s no denying this was a fun, magical adventure read and one I’m certain will go down a treat with many readers but sadly it didn’t quite hit the mark for me. I enjoyed it well enough but I found the writing and world building to be a little clunky at times. It had such a huge amount of potential to be something wholly unique but even the underwater element felt almost irrelevant at times as the world building was somewhat lacking (except for the jellyfish and Malo who have my entire heart). The plot itself felt like many other magic school stories I’ve read sliced up and stuck back together again and the characters weren’t quite developed enough for me.
That being said this was fun and jam packed and if I’d never read a book like this before, I’m sure I would have been blown away. Sadly, it just wasn’t quite executed in a way that allowed this story to reach its full potential.
That being said this was fun and jam packed and if I’d never read a book like this before, I’m sure I would have been blown away. Sadly, it just wasn’t quite executed in a way that allowed this story to reach its full potential.
January 10, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc for a review.
This was beautiful book that shows the authors live for the culture she grew up in with some stunning world building and amazing ideas for unique ways of magic. The jellyfish were inspired and the idea of a curse turning everyone who treated her badly bald was a beautiful image.
That being said, some of the writing is a little rough and could do with some polishing up. I enjoyed the story and hated the bully, Iridill. I look forward to finding out what happens next.
This was beautiful book that shows the authors live for the culture she grew up in with some stunning world building and amazing ideas for unique ways of magic. The jellyfish were inspired and the idea of a curse turning everyone who treated her badly bald was a beautiful image.
That being said, some of the writing is a little rough and could do with some polishing up. I enjoyed the story and hated the bully, Iridill. I look forward to finding out what happens next.
March 11, 2024
Yesssss! I have been WAITING for a new book that felt like Nevermoor, and it's finally here: a new magic school series that feels incredibly original, creative, and wondrous! It's an easy 5 stars, and I can't wait for the sequel!! Shoutout to my mom for telling me about this book after seeing a review in the School Library Journal...I hadn't even heard about it before then, but she knew I'd love it.
February 7, 2024
With the Year of the Dragon rapidly approaching, it's the perfect time to read the first instalment of what promises to be an enjoyable and emotional new series! Paper Dragons combines gorgeous and whimsical writing, likeable and well-developed characters and intricate and imaginative world building steeped in traditional Chinese mythology to produce an unforgettable tale of adventure. Zhi Ging's journey from seemingly unwanted outcast to brave and noble heroine is fantastically drawn, and the fast-paced plot made me eagerly anticipant the next release in the series, which happens rarely as I generally prefer to read standalones. If I haven't already sold this book to you, it has an underwater city made of glass, jellyfish and dragon boat racing! What more could you ask for? Paper Dragons: The Fight For The Hidden Realm is a fantastic first novel which is sure to enchant readers old and young, and the perfect way to kick off the Year of the Dragon.
February 12, 2024
I’m very frustrated by this book, from page 1-60 it was a good book, and from page 260-344 it is a very good book, but everything in the middle is just very badly done.
Now I don’t entirely blame the author, they obviously had a vision and understood what they were trying to explain to us that unfortunately just didn’t come across on paper, however books don’t just appear, a whole team of people had to approve this and not one editor or proof reader had any questions about anything?
SO much detail is missed in this book that’s it became unbearable, what on earth were their lessons? How did anything work? How long were they even there if they had time to do three exams?
I know it’s a kids book, and bullying is always a theme, but Iridill was so unbelievably evil, and the grown ups responses to it all was also so annoying I wanted to quit this book so many times - Iridill's lies literally get Zhi Ging in trouble with the law and if she ever returns to land she can be arrested! And the teachers are so unbothered! And when Zhi Ging finally confronts her everyone blames her to the point that the only adult on her side turns his back on her?! And don’t get me started on the boat races.
Everything in this book is so blatantly unfair and unjust that I almost didn’t care about any of the outcomes.
But then the end was very good, and I could see again why anyone would bother with this book.
It’s just very frustrating that with someone giving the author proper feedback during the writing process this whole book would have been brilliant.
Now I don’t entirely blame the author, they obviously had a vision and understood what they were trying to explain to us that unfortunately just didn’t come across on paper, however books don’t just appear, a whole team of people had to approve this and not one editor or proof reader had any questions about anything?
SO much detail is missed in this book that’s it became unbearable, what on earth were their lessons? How did anything work? How long were they even there if they had time to do three exams?
I know it’s a kids book, and bullying is always a theme, but Iridill was so unbelievably evil, and the grown ups responses to it all was also so annoying I wanted to quit this book so many times - Iridill's lies literally get Zhi Ging in trouble with the law and if she ever returns to land she can be arrested! And the teachers are so unbothered! And when Zhi Ging finally confronts her everyone blames her to the point that the only adult on her side turns his back on her?! And don’t get me started on the boat races.
Everything in this book is so blatantly unfair and unjust that I almost didn’t care about any of the outcomes.
But then the end was very good, and I could see again why anyone would bother with this book.
It’s just very frustrating that with someone giving the author proper feedback during the writing process this whole book would have been brilliant.
October 2, 2023
I LOVED this book! I slowly got into it and then it completely hooked me. I was hanging off every chapter and I grew to so love all the characters. The concept and story was just stunning and I’ve already said it, but I’ll say it again: I loved it!
Following Zhi Ging, we’re introduced to the world with her, of Silhouettes, mystery magic, trials and new friendships. All the elements of the story were just done so well and it made for an effortless and enjoyable read. I was on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen and honestly had no idea how it was going to conclude!
I raced through it in a few days and now I want my own Malo. The cutest little sidekick and he made a great addition to the story. And oof, after that ending I am definitely invested and can’t wait to see how the story develops!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
Following Zhi Ging, we’re introduced to the world with her, of Silhouettes, mystery magic, trials and new friendships. All the elements of the story were just done so well and it made for an effortless and enjoyable read. I was on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen and honestly had no idea how it was going to conclude!
I raced through it in a few days and now I want my own Malo. The cutest little sidekick and he made a great addition to the story. And oof, after that ending I am definitely invested and can’t wait to see how the story develops!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
March 9, 2024
✨BOOK TOUR✨
A 12-year-old girl wins an invitation to train as an apprentice to immortals in the first book of the new must-read magical series destined to take the world by storm —perfect for fans of Amari and the Night Brothers, Skandar, and Eragon.
Let the competition begin!
📖: Paper Dragons
🖋️: Siobhan McDermott
⭐️: 5 of 5
🗓️: 3/5/24
📚: MG fantasy, Asian mythology/fable, adventure
💬: “Hok Woh is your only home now.”
Tropes & Themes:
🐉Adorable jellyfish
🐉Hidden powers
🐉Lies and betrayal
🐉Challenges
From constantly being overlooked and rejected. Yeung Zhi Ging, has her heart set on becoming a Silhouette. To avoid the harsh reality of being sent into to the post pipe.
“So, you’re the one Fei Chui chose to protect.”
Everything changes when Zhi comes discovers the missing stone.
With mysterious powers surrounding Zhi. She finds herself under the protection at Hok Woh.
“Next time, if you want me to sit beside you, you can just ask.”
From cute jellyfish, challenges, and evil spirits lurking. Zhi finds herself between a jealous girl from back home and the odds stacked against her.
Can Zhi pass the challenges while more secrets are revealed? Will the evil spirits continue to harm villages? What will Zhi do when the survival of everyone is on her shoulders?
“Hok Woh is your only home now.”
Find out in Paper Dragons!
🐉I absolutely loved this book! First, the cover is absolutely stunning and I had one of my twins rushing me to finish so she can read the book too!🔥
The action started right away and I love the world Siobhan created! I want my own jellyfish lol I was completely shocked when we discovered who is behind the dark spirits.🤯 I did not see that coming!!! Jack is probably my favorite male character. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
🐉Blurb in the comments
Thank you @turnthepagetours for allowing me to join this tour! As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts.
A 12-year-old girl wins an invitation to train as an apprentice to immortals in the first book of the new must-read magical series destined to take the world by storm —perfect for fans of Amari and the Night Brothers, Skandar, and Eragon.
Let the competition begin!
📖: Paper Dragons
🖋️: Siobhan McDermott
⭐️: 5 of 5
🗓️: 3/5/24
📚: MG fantasy, Asian mythology/fable, adventure
💬: “Hok Woh is your only home now.”
Tropes & Themes:
🐉Adorable jellyfish
🐉Hidden powers
🐉Lies and betrayal
🐉Challenges
From constantly being overlooked and rejected. Yeung Zhi Ging, has her heart set on becoming a Silhouette. To avoid the harsh reality of being sent into to the post pipe.
“So, you’re the one Fei Chui chose to protect.”
Everything changes when Zhi comes discovers the missing stone.
With mysterious powers surrounding Zhi. She finds herself under the protection at Hok Woh.
“Next time, if you want me to sit beside you, you can just ask.”
From cute jellyfish, challenges, and evil spirits lurking. Zhi finds herself between a jealous girl from back home and the odds stacked against her.
Can Zhi pass the challenges while more secrets are revealed? Will the evil spirits continue to harm villages? What will Zhi do when the survival of everyone is on her shoulders?
“Hok Woh is your only home now.”
Find out in Paper Dragons!
🐉I absolutely loved this book! First, the cover is absolutely stunning and I had one of my twins rushing me to finish so she can read the book too!🔥
The action started right away and I love the world Siobhan created! I want my own jellyfish lol I was completely shocked when we discovered who is behind the dark spirits.🤯 I did not see that coming!!! Jack is probably my favorite male character. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
🐉Blurb in the comments
Thank you @turnthepagetours for allowing me to join this tour! As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts.
January 13, 2024
For over a thousand years, the immortal Cyo B’Ahon have been the guardians of Wengyuen, protecting its six provinces.
Every year, the Cyo B’Ahon come scouting for their successors, and these candidates are called Silhouettes.
This book opens with 12-yo orphan, Yeung Zhi Ging, chasing after Silhouette Scout Reishi, begging him to take her.
Zhi Ging enters a complex, vividly-described world…with floating markets that travel on the cloud sea. And a school of magic, Hok Woh, that runs on a jellyfish messaging system and has dragon boat racing as sport.
Author Siobhan McDermott, born in Hong Kong to a Chinese mother, builds a highly imaginative world that you’ve got to “see” to believe.
All is not well with the Cya B’Ahon, who’re being attacked by hostile provinces who believe they’re responsible for the return of the Fui Gwai, a spirit that turns its victims into grey thralls.
This first instalment hints at Zhi Ging’s potential power, and ends with a much darker force that threatens to overwhelm. Promising start to a brand new series, looking forward to the next one!
This publishes just in time for the Year of the Dragon in mid-February and I’m grateful to @definitelybookskids for this Advance Reader Copy ❤️
Every year, the Cyo B’Ahon come scouting for their successors, and these candidates are called Silhouettes.
This book opens with 12-yo orphan, Yeung Zhi Ging, chasing after Silhouette Scout Reishi, begging him to take her.
Zhi Ging enters a complex, vividly-described world…with floating markets that travel on the cloud sea. And a school of magic, Hok Woh, that runs on a jellyfish messaging system and has dragon boat racing as sport.
Author Siobhan McDermott, born in Hong Kong to a Chinese mother, builds a highly imaginative world that you’ve got to “see” to believe.
All is not well with the Cya B’Ahon, who’re being attacked by hostile provinces who believe they’re responsible for the return of the Fui Gwai, a spirit that turns its victims into grey thralls.
This first instalment hints at Zhi Ging’s potential power, and ends with a much darker force that threatens to overwhelm. Promising start to a brand new series, looking forward to the next one!
This publishes just in time for the Year of the Dragon in mid-February and I’m grateful to @definitelybookskids for this Advance Reader Copy ❤️
February 16, 2024
I wanted to love this and there is the potential for a great premise here but the writing and world building just lets it down. There's so much info dumping and presumptions that readers will just catch on. I find this particularly surprising given the age range this book is aimed at.
March 18, 2024
What. A. DELIGHT! I have always loved dragon books and mythology combined in one book and I always wlhave this certain level of expectations when it comes to this kind of books. When I say I was delighted reading this, it means I was transported to this wonderful, unobstructed, imaginative world of adventure and emotional rollercoaster 🫠 It was such a magical treat to find a book like this, much so well constructed plot💕
February 2, 2024
A good read!
Shelved as 'situationships-and-notes'
February 8, 2024A typical magical adventure story. I enjoyed the magical world. In this story, Zhi Ging must face the challenging trials set by her teachers to prove that she’s worthy of being a Silhouette or an apprentice to immortals. The story is inspired by Chinese mythology. It's a typical magical adventure story where an ordinary protagonist becomes the star of the show.
Biggest strength : The world building was great—the clouds, jelly fish system.
Weakness : But overall everything did not gel together. Some things perhaps would be developed more in the later books. The same goes for Zhi Ging—I would've liked to know her better and be really rooted in her story.
Biggest strength : The world building was great—the clouds, jelly fish system.
Weakness : But overall everything did not gel together. Some things perhaps would be developed more in the later books. The same goes for Zhi Ging—I would've liked to know her better and be really rooted in her story.
November 13, 2023
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
A baby is dropped off with Aapau in Fei Chui, a village of Glassmiths. Aapau names her Zhi Ging, and raises her until she is sent away for her Final Year on a roaming pagoda. Sadly, this happens on the same day that Zhi Ging is supposed to take her test for being chosen as a Silhouette. She would be able to train in Hok Woh, learning the skills to become an immortal Cyo B'Ahon. Instead, the lead Glassmith's daughter, Iridill, is chosen. Zhi Ging begs Reishi to take her instead, hoping that by finding his missing stone, he will agree. If she doesn't go to the school, she could end up scrubbing the post pipes that carry messages back and forth, a job which has a high mortality rate. When strange things happen to Zhi Ging, who previously didn't have magic, Reishi has to change his mind, especially when she seems to manifest air rails that he has been researching for a long time. The people of Fei Chui think that Zhi Ging has summoned the evil spirit, the Fui Gwai, and the Thralls who work for the spirit, and issue a warrant for her arrest. Luckily, she is safe at the school, where she learns about the twelve challenges that students have to pass in order to remain enrolled. She makes some good friends who help her ward off Iridill, and she has some good success in the challenges, but when the Fui Gwai kidnaps that Silhouettes, Zhi Ging is the only one left to find her classmates and release them. In doing so, she finds hidden powers and learns secrets about her past. This puts her in danger, and the ending of the book leaves room for a sequel.
Strengths: There's a lot of good world building, with underwater message systems, trained jelly fish, and a school for Chosen Ones filled with magical classes, good food, and dark secrets. Zhi Ging has a lot of motivation to get into the school and stay there, and a lot of family drama in her background that slowly comes to light. Iridill is a nasty nemesis who makes Zhi Ging's life miserable and gives her even more motivation to succeed. Reishi is a good mentor, and helps her out a lot. There are plenty of good magical details and objects to keep the reader amused.
Weaknesses: The names did not seem to always go together, and I wasn't quite sure what cultural background Zhi Ging is supposed to have. The author was raised in Hong Kong, and there's a definite Pan Asian feel, but then there is a Jack and a Gertie, which was confusing. I also didn't care for the scrying tool named DandelEyeOn. Reminded me of the computer software to see what students were doing on their computers called SychronEyes.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who need more magical academy books like Clare and Black's The Iron Trial, Thomas' Nic Blake and the Remarkables, or Sanders's Keynan Masters and the Peerless Magic Crew .
A baby is dropped off with Aapau in Fei Chui, a village of Glassmiths. Aapau names her Zhi Ging, and raises her until she is sent away for her Final Year on a roaming pagoda. Sadly, this happens on the same day that Zhi Ging is supposed to take her test for being chosen as a Silhouette. She would be able to train in Hok Woh, learning the skills to become an immortal Cyo B'Ahon. Instead, the lead Glassmith's daughter, Iridill, is chosen. Zhi Ging begs Reishi to take her instead, hoping that by finding his missing stone, he will agree. If she doesn't go to the school, she could end up scrubbing the post pipes that carry messages back and forth, a job which has a high mortality rate. When strange things happen to Zhi Ging, who previously didn't have magic, Reishi has to change his mind, especially when she seems to manifest air rails that he has been researching for a long time. The people of Fei Chui think that Zhi Ging has summoned the evil spirit, the Fui Gwai, and the Thralls who work for the spirit, and issue a warrant for her arrest. Luckily, she is safe at the school, where she learns about the twelve challenges that students have to pass in order to remain enrolled. She makes some good friends who help her ward off Iridill, and she has some good success in the challenges, but when the Fui Gwai kidnaps that Silhouettes, Zhi Ging is the only one left to find her classmates and release them. In doing so, she finds hidden powers and learns secrets about her past. This puts her in danger, and the ending of the book leaves room for a sequel.
Strengths: There's a lot of good world building, with underwater message systems, trained jelly fish, and a school for Chosen Ones filled with magical classes, good food, and dark secrets. Zhi Ging has a lot of motivation to get into the school and stay there, and a lot of family drama in her background that slowly comes to light. Iridill is a nasty nemesis who makes Zhi Ging's life miserable and gives her even more motivation to succeed. Reishi is a good mentor, and helps her out a lot. There are plenty of good magical details and objects to keep the reader amused.
Weaknesses: The names did not seem to always go together, and I wasn't quite sure what cultural background Zhi Ging is supposed to have. The author was raised in Hong Kong, and there's a definite Pan Asian feel, but then there is a Jack and a Gertie, which was confusing. I also didn't care for the scrying tool named DandelEyeOn. Reminded me of the computer software to see what students were doing on their computers called SychronEyes.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who need more magical academy books like Clare and Black's The Iron Trial, Thomas' Nic Blake and the Remarkables, or Sanders's Keynan Masters and the Peerless Magic Crew .
January 30, 2024
There are a lot of things to like in this fantasy series opener, from the magical school under the sea whose jellyfish carry messages and whose tutors ageshift from (apparent) middle-age to children when surprised.. I loved the Fui Gwai, the evil spirit roaming the realms and taking possession of people, particularly the failed students. The story has a lot of the tropes and beats you'd expect from a magical school fantasy: the protagonist of unknown parentage despised by all but who naturally has the most magic, the devoted quirky friends she quickly makes, and the arch-rival from her home town, a bully and a liar determined to destroy Zhi Ging even after she saves her life.
However much of the world didn't make sense to me. How students were selected for the school, what they were taught (if anything), and who or what would grant them immortality if they passed all 12 trails.. The immortals didn't seem to have a purpose in the world (I have no idea why any of the provinces would pay them a cent). They were also really uncaring. With all the resources at their disposal, they didn't even investigate the claims that the Fui Gwai existed, even when it took failed students from under their noses. They were also very unobservant, the antagonist was obvious from early on (once you learn how to spot a thrall). I couldn't picture the place Zhi Ging grew up in. She breaks into the Lead Glassmaker's office to read his post with no real purpose and despite being caught, there are no consequences. Yet the threat hanging over her because she looks different is that she will be sent to clean the postal tubes, long glass tunnels where young cleaners regularly die. With all the magic in the world, why is there no better system of cleaning them? Why does nobody object to this? The story ends in a cliff-hanger too, which was disappointing.
These things may not be an issue for most people, and I suspect future books will develop this world a lot more. The overall story arc is probably really strong, but I needed more of it in book one.
However much of the world didn't make sense to me. How students were selected for the school, what they were taught (if anything), and who or what would grant them immortality if they passed all 12 trails.. The immortals didn't seem to have a purpose in the world (I have no idea why any of the provinces would pay them a cent). They were also really uncaring. With all the resources at their disposal, they didn't even investigate the claims that the Fui Gwai existed, even when it took failed students from under their noses. They were also very unobservant, the antagonist was obvious from early on (once you learn how to spot a thrall). I couldn't picture the place Zhi Ging grew up in. She breaks into the Lead Glassmaker's office to read his post with no real purpose and despite being caught, there are no consequences. Yet the threat hanging over her because she looks different is that she will be sent to clean the postal tubes, long glass tunnels where young cleaners regularly die. With all the magic in the world, why is there no better system of cleaning them? Why does nobody object to this? The story ends in a cliff-hanger too, which was disappointing.
These things may not be an issue for most people, and I suspect future books will develop this world a lot more. The overall story arc is probably really strong, but I needed more of it in book one.
March 27, 2024
I have been loving middle grade fantasy lately. It's been engaging and entertaining and perfect the age, and older audience! So maybe I put a little too much faith in this one but it just didn't do it for me.
What I Liked:
It follows the same formula for middle grade fantasy. This formula is perfect for the younger audiences and why try to change that. You have a young main character who has a lot of potential but needs to learn it. You have a bully that the main character needs to deal with, and always with grace. You have quirky friends who bring out the best in the main character and create an unbreakable bond. Then finally there is a conflict that they must overcome.
What I Wanted More Of:
Story. I have a bad habit of not reading blurbs (or reading them so long ago I don't remember it when I finally get to the book). However, if you don't read the summary, you are lost in the beginning of the book. There is no explanation of anything or why. And this continues throughout the book. I never really understood the plot or the world. This really inhibited my enjoyment and I wish this was explored a little more. I didn't understand the system as well. Now I know you don't want to put *too* much detail in books meant for a younger age, but you need something. This flow of this book just seems like words strung together.
Who I Recommend This For:
I think the younger audience it was meant for will enjoy this. But those who are older and try to read with their younger friends (or family members), I don't think it'll hit quite the same. It doesn't have the same flow as Amari, Battle Dragons, Prince of Nowhere, etc. for the older audience.
*Listened to an advanced copy from Penguin Random House - I would not recommend this audiobook for younger audiences. I had to super slow down the speed (usually 1.75x and I had to slow down to 1.3x) - I think this would be better enjoyed as a physical read for the younger audience.
What I Liked:
It follows the same formula for middle grade fantasy. This formula is perfect for the younger audiences and why try to change that. You have a young main character who has a lot of potential but needs to learn it. You have a bully that the main character needs to deal with, and always with grace. You have quirky friends who bring out the best in the main character and create an unbreakable bond. Then finally there is a conflict that they must overcome.
What I Wanted More Of:
Story. I have a bad habit of not reading blurbs (or reading them so long ago I don't remember it when I finally get to the book). However, if you don't read the summary, you are lost in the beginning of the book. There is no explanation of anything or why. And this continues throughout the book. I never really understood the plot or the world. This really inhibited my enjoyment and I wish this was explored a little more. I didn't understand the system as well. Now I know you don't want to put *too* much detail in books meant for a younger age, but you need something. This flow of this book just seems like words strung together.
Who I Recommend This For:
I think the younger audience it was meant for will enjoy this. But those who are older and try to read with their younger friends (or family members), I don't think it'll hit quite the same. It doesn't have the same flow as Amari, Battle Dragons, Prince of Nowhere, etc. for the older audience.
*Listened to an advanced copy from Penguin Random House - I would not recommend this audiobook for younger audiences. I had to super slow down the speed (usually 1.75x and I had to slow down to 1.3x) - I think this would be better enjoyed as a physical read for the younger audience.
March 23, 2024
Hmmm… It may seem I've finally grown out of juvenile fantasy – "Impossible Creatures" did so little for me, and now this, which starts with a heap of promise and then just goes down and down. But you could say that with the world-building at its best here and the intrigue at its strongest, this is certainly not a junior-ONLY fantasy. Other elements, however, are where that term certainly applies.
Basically what we have is a lowly girl living as a Cinderella figure in a guild of glass-smiths, who is determined to leave the people she has no blood relationship with and go to the school for immortals. Before she can do that there is a great flash of what could be done with this world, but no – the mystical chap taking her to the school is just a routine character of no interest, the school is a bonkers one with telepathic jellyfish all over the shop, and you just know the bulk of things will be an extended training montage, school dorm, bullying, yack-yack section, before anything of note comes up in time to tease Book Two.
That might make it sound there is much here than is routinely formulaic, and there isn't really – but boy I could see the potential build-up of that, and I ducked out quick. It just seemed that the glass elements were going to be under-used, the paper dragons just weren't in evidence, and what was so assuredly conveyed early on was just going to devolve into a treading-ground-at-magic-school middle third. Other reviews saying what they said about the pattern on these pages only proved me right. So I leave this with a DNF and a two stars, to hint at the not inconsiderable effort the author applied to get something this adult found himself too immune to.
Basically what we have is a lowly girl living as a Cinderella figure in a guild of glass-smiths, who is determined to leave the people she has no blood relationship with and go to the school for immortals. Before she can do that there is a great flash of what could be done with this world, but no – the mystical chap taking her to the school is just a routine character of no interest, the school is a bonkers one with telepathic jellyfish all over the shop, and you just know the bulk of things will be an extended training montage, school dorm, bullying, yack-yack section, before anything of note comes up in time to tease Book Two.
That might make it sound there is much here than is routinely formulaic, and there isn't really – but boy I could see the potential build-up of that, and I ducked out quick. It just seemed that the glass elements were going to be under-used, the paper dragons just weren't in evidence, and what was so assuredly conveyed early on was just going to devolve into a treading-ground-at-magic-school middle third. Other reviews saying what they said about the pattern on these pages only proved me right. So I leave this with a DNF and a two stars, to hint at the not inconsiderable effort the author applied to get something this adult found himself too immune to.
March 10, 2024
Paper Dragons is a charming debut, with a brave and witty protagonist, full of magic, adventure, and Chinese folklore.
Zhi Ging is an orphan, she is 12 years old, and she dreams of being a silhouette or an apprentice to immortal, she will have the opportunity to attend a special school, where she will make friends, and she will also have bullies, where she will have to prove to her teachers that she is worthy and she will have to pass all her exams. (despite sounding similar to Harry Potter, the story itself is not similar)
My favorite part was the world-building, it’s very vivid and charming, it's an underwater world, with colorful floating markets, where you can buy the most peculiar items, jellyfish are used as a medium of communication, and they were the cutest, like magical pets/familiars and now I want one. The school is cool, but the best part is that they have a dragon boat. I think the world is the best part because although it’s a fantasy, the author was inspired by her childhood travels (I think that's what makes it feel more real) and weaves it with Chinese mythology.
Zhi is a fun character, a normal kid, with dreams, who has friends but also bullies, and studies to achieve her goals; she and her friends are very loveable.
It’s fast-paced, with short chapters, the world-building is interesting and very whimsical, the writing style is lovely, and the ending was a little abrupt, leaving the way open for a sequel.
Thanks to Turn the Pages Tours for the early copy
Read it if you want:
Middle-Grade Fantasy
Fast pacing Adventure
Whimsical World
Zhi Ging is an orphan, she is 12 years old, and she dreams of being a silhouette or an apprentice to immortal, she will have the opportunity to attend a special school, where she will make friends, and she will also have bullies, where she will have to prove to her teachers that she is worthy and she will have to pass all her exams. (despite sounding similar to Harry Potter, the story itself is not similar)
My favorite part was the world-building, it’s very vivid and charming, it's an underwater world, with colorful floating markets, where you can buy the most peculiar items, jellyfish are used as a medium of communication, and they were the cutest, like magical pets/familiars and now I want one. The school is cool, but the best part is that they have a dragon boat. I think the world is the best part because although it’s a fantasy, the author was inspired by her childhood travels (I think that's what makes it feel more real) and weaves it with Chinese mythology.
Zhi is a fun character, a normal kid, with dreams, who has friends but also bullies, and studies to achieve her goals; she and her friends are very loveable.
It’s fast-paced, with short chapters, the world-building is interesting and very whimsical, the writing style is lovely, and the ending was a little abrupt, leaving the way open for a sequel.
Thanks to Turn the Pages Tours for the early copy
Read it if you want:
Middle-Grade Fantasy
Fast pacing Adventure
Whimsical World
January 17, 2024
A young girl who will do anything to become an apprentice to immortals to escape her life finds herself awakening powers she never knew she had. Yeung Zhi Ging is a 12 year old orphan girl who yearns to become a Silhouette, someone who is an apprentice to the immortals. Despite losing and not impressing the scout, she is determined to find a way to get a spot... even if it means facing a dragon attack. All her life she has been different and she wants nothing more than to fit in. When she is given a second chance to become an apprentice she must undergo extensive trials to prove she has what it takes. Yet the longer she stays in the trials the stronger her powers become... and the more questions of who she is begins to be asked. This started off as a really interesting read but then got a bit messy and dragged on by the end. This is the first book in the series but I don't think I will be continuing on with the rest of the books. It's not a bad series for middle grade readers, in fact, I would recommend it. However I just felt that it could be better, this is very much a "magical school" kind of novel with a "not like other kids" protagonist. I was hoping the trials/journey for Zhi would be more interesting but it just kind of all blended together and there weren't any stand out moments. I did enjoy that this series added a touch of chinese mythology to it though. Overall, this is a good series for young readers who enjoy magical school-esque stories.
*Thanks Netgalley and Random House Children's, Delacorte Press for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*
*Thanks Netgalley and Random House Children's, Delacorte Press for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*
March 18, 2024
*thank you netgalley and publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review*
okay wow. I ADORED THIS SO MUCH AHHHHH.
okay now that i’ve got the screaming out of the way, on to the review.
i absolutely loved the world and magic system of this book. it’s steeped in asian lore and culture and it really felt like i was standing there in the underwater glass school (which, let’s take a moment to acknowledge how cool that is) with these characters. the explanations at the back really tie this together and i loved how much she thought about symbolism in this book.
speaking of characters, oh my did i fall in love with these people. malo was obviously a favorite because if you name an animal in your book i automatically get attached, but zhi ging was just such a compelling and likeable protagonist. you wanted to root for her even through mess ups because you’ve seen the messed up world through her eyes.
i also loved the way she formed friendships with people who actually stuck by her and with some adults the way you would expect. she’s searching for belonging and trying desperately to prove she should be there. it makes her journey that much more touching as she’s navigating these new relationships.
this book also deals with generational hate in a way that i really liked and explains why iridill is the way she is is (even if she is still awful)
the twist villian is always a win for me as well and i was genuinely shocked at the reveal.
i can not wait till book 2. when is that coming btw? 👀
okay wow. I ADORED THIS SO MUCH AHHHHH.
okay now that i’ve got the screaming out of the way, on to the review.
i absolutely loved the world and magic system of this book. it’s steeped in asian lore and culture and it really felt like i was standing there in the underwater glass school (which, let’s take a moment to acknowledge how cool that is) with these characters. the explanations at the back really tie this together and i loved how much she thought about symbolism in this book.
speaking of characters, oh my did i fall in love with these people. malo was obviously a favorite because if you name an animal in your book i automatically get attached, but zhi ging was just such a compelling and likeable protagonist. you wanted to root for her even through mess ups because you’ve seen the messed up world through her eyes.
i also loved the way she formed friendships with people who actually stuck by her and with some adults the way you would expect. she’s searching for belonging and trying desperately to prove she should be there. it makes her journey that much more touching as she’s navigating these new relationships.
this book also deals with generational hate in a way that i really liked and explains why iridill is the way she is is (even if she is still awful)
the twist villian is always a win for me as well and i was genuinely shocked at the reveal.
i can not wait till book 2. when is that coming btw? 👀
January 27, 2024
A fun and creative adventure for readers of all ages!
Follow Zhi Ging as she apprentices in the magical underwater city of the immortals, fighting curses and bullies as she learns the truth about her unknown past!
Such a creative and imaginative world! As someone who reads a LOT of fantasy there were plwnty of elements in this book I had never seen before! The Floating Market was one of my favorite scenes; I figured it was called that because it moved around so imagine my surprise when the venders closed up shop that their tents turned into floatinf lanterns ans they sailed away on the breeze! The jellyfish familiars were unique and adorable (not words I rver thought I would use to describe jellyfish!) with their own personalities. The ageshifting when someone gets excited or surprised lent a humorous element to the story but the idea that creativity, innovation, and scientific study literally keeps the immortals young is so intriguing. I absolutely LOVED Malo being inside the spirit jade and becoming Zhi Geng’s familiar.
I was so focused on the wonderful friendships and the trials Zhi Geng had to overcome to stay in the school that the villain reveal totally caught me by surprise. There is a bit of a hanging ending so I am assuming there will be a sequel (and hopefully a series as Zhi Geng has quite a few classes to pass before she can gain immortality). I will be awaiting an announcement so I can find out what happened to Reishi and the other Silhouettes!
Follow Zhi Ging as she apprentices in the magical underwater city of the immortals, fighting curses and bullies as she learns the truth about her unknown past!
Such a creative and imaginative world! As someone who reads a LOT of fantasy there were plwnty of elements in this book I had never seen before! The Floating Market was one of my favorite scenes; I figured it was called that because it moved around so imagine my surprise when the venders closed up shop that their tents turned into floatinf lanterns ans they sailed away on the breeze! The jellyfish familiars were unique and adorable (not words I rver thought I would use to describe jellyfish!) with their own personalities. The ageshifting when someone gets excited or surprised lent a humorous element to the story but the idea that creativity, innovation, and scientific study literally keeps the immortals young is so intriguing. I absolutely LOVED Malo being inside the spirit jade and becoming Zhi Geng’s familiar.
I was so focused on the wonderful friendships and the trials Zhi Geng had to overcome to stay in the school that the villain reveal totally caught me by surprise. There is a bit of a hanging ending so I am assuming there will be a sequel (and hopefully a series as Zhi Geng has quite a few classes to pass before she can gain immortality). I will be awaiting an announcement so I can find out what happened to Reishi and the other Silhouettes!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2023
It has magic and a school, but this felt less Rowling and more Pratchett, with lots of magical elements thrown at you in a chaotic way; but while that's a praise on his books, it's not in this instance. I feel this novel needs polishing. The purpose of the book seems to be to introduce you to this universe, since it finishes when things start to happen, but after 350 pages I was left with more questions than answers about it, I feel lost in this world.
It would benefit of an explanation of the different realms and what each does. I found the school system nonsensical, sometimes there doesn't seem to be a distinction between alumni and teachers; you join the same class doesn't matter when you start; and the tests are the same regardless of your level, for some their last test is the same than for others the first one, someone that's there for a year fails a test that people that have been there less than a week pass? Do they learn anything in that school? Also, what's the purpose for society of this immortal beings? What's their skillset, beside age-shifting, how are their powers used to help society?
It still has good elements to it and looks like a good bit of work was done in building this universe, so although three stars is possibly generous, two stars would feel too harsh.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for this ARC in exchange of my honest review
It would benefit of an explanation of the different realms and what each does. I found the school system nonsensical, sometimes there doesn't seem to be a distinction between alumni and teachers; you join the same class doesn't matter when you start; and the tests are the same regardless of your level, for some their last test is the same than for others the first one, someone that's there for a year fails a test that people that have been there less than a week pass? Do they learn anything in that school? Also, what's the purpose for society of this immortal beings? What's their skillset, beside age-shifting, how are their powers used to help society?
It still has good elements to it and looks like a good bit of work was done in building this universe, so although three stars is possibly generous, two stars would feel too harsh.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for this ARC in exchange of my honest review
February 6, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Children's, Delacorte Press for allowing my the opportunity to read and review this arc copy of this book.
Paper Dragons is a middle grade novel about a girl who grew up in a hostile environment. Zhi Ging‘s only escape is the Silhouette exam. Unusual circumstances occur and she is accepted. But this is only the beginning of the story.
There are a lot of elements in this story: bigotry, hate, bullying, intrigue, dangerous exams, and a mysterious enemy. Zhi Ging must deal with all that and keep up with her classes!
The world is a blend of Xianxia fantasy within a boarding school setting. There’s definitely differences than the classic Xianxia in the C-Dramas on tv, but they make for a more interesting setting.
The bad guy reveal wasn’t a shock but I didn’t catch any of the hints (if there were any) in the book.
I would have liked a bit more details on the bad guy and some of the history.
My favorite part was the index. The explanations of the names made me giggle because I share the name bug. Names that have meaning for the character and personality. The fun way she came up with them made me enjoy the story more.
Thank you again NetGalley and Random House Children's, Delacorte Press for the opportunity to review this fun book.
Paper Dragons is a middle grade novel about a girl who grew up in a hostile environment. Zhi Ging‘s only escape is the Silhouette exam. Unusual circumstances occur and she is accepted. But this is only the beginning of the story.
There are a lot of elements in this story: bigotry, hate, bullying, intrigue, dangerous exams, and a mysterious enemy. Zhi Ging must deal with all that and keep up with her classes!
The world is a blend of Xianxia fantasy within a boarding school setting. There’s definitely differences than the classic Xianxia in the C-Dramas on tv, but they make for a more interesting setting.
The bad guy reveal wasn’t a shock but I didn’t catch any of the hints (if there were any) in the book.
I would have liked a bit more details on the bad guy and some of the history.
My favorite part was the index. The explanations of the names made me giggle because I share the name bug. Names that have meaning for the character and personality. The fun way she came up with them made me enjoy the story more.
Thank you again NetGalley and Random House Children's, Delacorte Press for the opportunity to review this fun book.
February 26, 2024
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
Paper Dragons: The Fight for the Hidden Realm drew me in with a solid premise, and some solid comp titles in the realm of middle-grade fantasy-adventure, including Amari and the Night Brothers. Upon picking it up, I was immediately drawn to the world building in particular, and how it utilizes concepts from Chinese mythology. There are some gaps when it comes to the technical side of the magic and how it all works, but I can let it slide as something that might bother an adult reader more than a child.
Zhi Ging is a great protagonist to follow, and I like that she had a good balance of more mundane, relatable issues to deal with, like bullies, as well as magical ones. She goes on the fairly standard hero’s journey for the genre, but the story has its own charm as she comes into her own as a young heroine.
The story is high on the action, and pretty fast-paced, with few moments of lull in between. The writing is fairly accessible, yet lyrical, and I like how the book is split into fairly short chapters, keeping the intrigue and tension high.
I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to where this could go as a series. If you enjoy middle grade fantasy, I’d recommend checking this out!
Paper Dragons: The Fight for the Hidden Realm drew me in with a solid premise, and some solid comp titles in the realm of middle-grade fantasy-adventure, including Amari and the Night Brothers. Upon picking it up, I was immediately drawn to the world building in particular, and how it utilizes concepts from Chinese mythology. There are some gaps when it comes to the technical side of the magic and how it all works, but I can let it slide as something that might bother an adult reader more than a child.
Zhi Ging is a great protagonist to follow, and I like that she had a good balance of more mundane, relatable issues to deal with, like bullies, as well as magical ones. She goes on the fairly standard hero’s journey for the genre, but the story has its own charm as she comes into her own as a young heroine.
The story is high on the action, and pretty fast-paced, with few moments of lull in between. The writing is fairly accessible, yet lyrical, and I like how the book is split into fairly short chapters, keeping the intrigue and tension high.
I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to where this could go as a series. If you enjoy middle grade fantasy, I’d recommend checking this out!
February 26, 2024
My thanks for the ARC goes to NetGalley and Random House Children's, Delacorte Press. I'm voluntarily leaving a review.
Genre and Age: Middle Grade Fantasy, Asian Fantasy, Asian Fantasy, Chinese Mythology, Adventure
Themes: Friendship, Betrayal
Oh my goodness! *PAPER DRAGONS* captured me right from the start! It's an amazing world that I want to spend more time in.
Zhi Ging is relatable with her problems of not fitting in and wanting to escape her village—who doesn't want to get away at times, right? I love how the mean girl is fleshed out a bit in this book so we know why she's acting the way she does.
The world is compelling. It's so well-thought out and creative—and if this book was made into a movie, the visuals would be stunning.
There was a moment when this book reminded me of Harry Potter, but is that just because of the Zhi Ging going to a magical school? It might be, but I'd love to see if other people got a hint of that vibe too.
This book is exciting, adventurous, and oh so fun.
I think adults should read this book too if you're interested in delving into a creative world.
The author's note in the back on the naming of different characters is interesting, and it proves she's thought through her novel.
I highly recommend this book!
Happy reading!
PS—Now I want a pet jellyfish...
Genre and Age: Middle Grade Fantasy, Asian Fantasy, Asian Fantasy, Chinese Mythology, Adventure
Themes: Friendship, Betrayal
Oh my goodness! *PAPER DRAGONS* captured me right from the start! It's an amazing world that I want to spend more time in.
Zhi Ging is relatable with her problems of not fitting in and wanting to escape her village—who doesn't want to get away at times, right? I love how the mean girl is fleshed out a bit in this book so we know why she's acting the way she does.
The world is compelling. It's so well-thought out and creative—and if this book was made into a movie, the visuals would be stunning.
There was a moment when this book reminded me of Harry Potter, but is that just because of the Zhi Ging going to a magical school? It might be, but I'd love to see if other people got a hint of that vibe too.
This book is exciting, adventurous, and oh so fun.
I think adults should read this book too if you're interested in delving into a creative world.
The author's note in the back on the naming of different characters is interesting, and it proves she's thought through her novel.
I highly recommend this book!
Happy reading!
PS—Now I want a pet jellyfish...
March 12, 2024
The cover for this is gorgeous and the plot sounded so intriguing, but the story itself didn't live up to it for me.
The world building sounds beautiful and the imagery painted by the author is amazing, but it felt like it took so very long for the book to actually get started on the plot, I think I was over 30% of the way in before Zhi Ging made it to Hok Woh (I could be wrong, but I remember be off, but it was a noticeable amount of the way in). The book had simultaneously nothing happening and also everything happening, there were so many plot points going on it was almost hard to keep track. I seriously considered DNF'ing it but had made it so far I pushed through. I am still a bit fuzzy on what the Silhouettes are training for and what their classes are meant to teach.
Iridell. This is middle grade so of course we will get some bullying and a rival student sort of plot, but it felt incredibly over the top. Both in the way Iridell taunted Zhi Ging and her friends and in the way that none of the adults even remotely seemed to believe Zhi Ging hadn't done anything wrong.
In the end I think it just needed a bit more editing, but I think this is one of those books where it will be enjoyed more by other people than it was by me.
Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!
The world building sounds beautiful and the imagery painted by the author is amazing, but it felt like it took so very long for the book to actually get started on the plot, I think I was over 30% of the way in before Zhi Ging made it to Hok Woh (I could be wrong, but I remember be off, but it was a noticeable amount of the way in). The book had simultaneously nothing happening and also everything happening, there were so many plot points going on it was almost hard to keep track. I seriously considered DNF'ing it but had made it so far I pushed through. I am still a bit fuzzy on what the Silhouettes are training for and what their classes are meant to teach.
Iridell. This is middle grade so of course we will get some bullying and a rival student sort of plot, but it felt incredibly over the top. Both in the way Iridell taunted Zhi Ging and her friends and in the way that none of the adults even remotely seemed to believe Zhi Ging hadn't done anything wrong.
In the end I think it just needed a bit more editing, but I think this is one of those books where it will be enjoyed more by other people than it was by me.
Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!
September 22, 2023
An Asian orphan in earlier (even imaginary) times is not likely to have an easy ride in life. But when she is given the chance to become a Silhouette, it is potentially a game-changer for 12 year old Zhi Ging. Because Silhouettes are apprentices to the Immortals, and they have the opportunity to see and experience things that ordinary human beings can only dream of.
Of course it is not that simple. Is it ever? Zhi Ging must now compete in a series of trials in order to complete her training.
And, to her dismay, it turns out that strange things are happening that are not properly explained to the participants. Silhouettes who are unsuccessful are mysteriously disappearing.
So what is happening to them? And what do the rumours of the emergence of dark and threatening forces mean for Zhi Ging?
This is an enjoyable story that delivers on the fantasy aspect successfully, inspired by elements of mythology and culture. Zhi Ging explores the landscape around her both overground and underwater in a series of adventures that transport the reader to a different world, where anything can happen and many magical things do...
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Of course it is not that simple. Is it ever? Zhi Ging must now compete in a series of trials in order to complete her training.
And, to her dismay, it turns out that strange things are happening that are not properly explained to the participants. Silhouettes who are unsuccessful are mysteriously disappearing.
So what is happening to them? And what do the rumours of the emergence of dark and threatening forces mean for Zhi Ging?
This is an enjoyable story that delivers on the fantasy aspect successfully, inspired by elements of mythology and culture. Zhi Ging explores the landscape around her both overground and underwater in a series of adventures that transport the reader to a different world, where anything can happen and many magical things do...
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
March 12, 2024
Have your kids (or you) read Harry Potter and Keeper of the Lost Cities and Skandar the Unicorn Thief and want something that has the same vibes? Paper Dragons will be it! Zhi Ging is an orphan. She has one ambition to be selected to enter the magical and mystical school of Hok Woh and become one of the immortal Cyo B'Ahon. Mysterious people who help guide the world above and below the cloud sea. But there are people who have an interest in seeing Zhi Ging fail and there are forces at work that Zhi Ging could never expect.
Drawing on Chinese mythology, a richly imagined world and lots of magical ideas Paper Dragons will have you wrapped up in a whole new world of adventure. There is of course a dark and mysterious villain threatening Hok Woh, adult characters who know much more than they tell, a death defying sport to get involved in, and new friendships for the lonely Zhi Ging. This one is magic and I look forward to seeing what happens next to Zhi Ging.
I did struggle to keep track of the various Cyo B'Ahon tutors at times and there were moments when the adult characters could have cleared everything up for Zhi Ging but just didn't (a plot device that really bugs me especially in YA - "you are safer not knowing all the details about the thing that is trying to kill you little child"*pat on head*"run along to get put in harms way now"), however I do feel that this series will get stronger from here on as the end of the book revealed multiple parts of new information.
Drawing on Chinese mythology, a richly imagined world and lots of magical ideas Paper Dragons will have you wrapped up in a whole new world of adventure. There is of course a dark and mysterious villain threatening Hok Woh, adult characters who know much more than they tell, a death defying sport to get involved in, and new friendships for the lonely Zhi Ging. This one is magic and I look forward to seeing what happens next to Zhi Ging.
I did struggle to keep track of the various Cyo B'Ahon tutors at times and there were moments when the adult characters could have cleared everything up for Zhi Ging but just didn't (a plot device that really bugs me especially in YA - "you are safer not knowing all the details about the thing that is trying to kill you little child"*pat on head*"run along to get put in harms way now"), however I do feel that this series will get stronger from here on as the end of the book revealed multiple parts of new information.
January 5, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this book early in exchange for an honest review!
I originally picked up this book because I was upset at having so little books to fill my heart after rereading Harry Potter. It’s quite a challenge to ask of new authors, to bring about new magical realms that spark the same amount of delight as that superb series. Fortunately for this book, I think it’s a good start. Unfortunately, I don’t think it’s up to the quality of other ‘magical academy’ books within the genre.
What I liked: Chinese mythology, animal companions, coming-of-age story structure, easy read (not too tough vocabulary if you’re familiar with Chinese pronunciations).
What I didn’t like: trials (ugh!), not an easy plot to follow, beautiful world building that didn’t lead to much, protagonist is miserable for the sake of drama and not for plot.
In the end, I wish the author had focused more on the world they were building and developed their characters to fit it better, rather than trying to fit the tropes of the genre into the book wherever they possibly could. It’s interesting, but I don’t know if I’ll read book two.
I originally picked up this book because I was upset at having so little books to fill my heart after rereading Harry Potter. It’s quite a challenge to ask of new authors, to bring about new magical realms that spark the same amount of delight as that superb series. Fortunately for this book, I think it’s a good start. Unfortunately, I don’t think it’s up to the quality of other ‘magical academy’ books within the genre.
What I liked: Chinese mythology, animal companions, coming-of-age story structure, easy read (not too tough vocabulary if you’re familiar with Chinese pronunciations).
What I didn’t like: trials (ugh!), not an easy plot to follow, beautiful world building that didn’t lead to much, protagonist is miserable for the sake of drama and not for plot.
In the end, I wish the author had focused more on the world they were building and developed their characters to fit it better, rather than trying to fit the tropes of the genre into the book wherever they possibly could. It’s interesting, but I don’t know if I’ll read book two.
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