Xander and the Lost Island of Monsters (Momotaro, 1)

Percy Jackson meets Hayao Miyazaki in this critically acclaimed contemporary Japanese folktale about a boy who discovers his latent powers on a quest to save his father. Xander Miyamoto would rather do almost anything than listen to his sixth-grade teacher Mr. Stedman drone on about weather disasters happening around the globe. If Xander could do stuff hes good at instead like draw comics and create computer programs he might not be counting the minutes until the dismissal bell. When spring break begins at last Xander plans to spend it playing computer games with his best friend Peyton. Xanders father briefly distracts him with a comic book about a samurai warrior named Momotaro that springs out of a peach pit. Xander tosses it aside but Peyton finds it more interesting. Little does either boy know that the comic is a warning. They are about to be thrust into the biggest adventure of their lives a journey wilder than any Xander has ever imagined full of weird monsters. To win at this deadly serious game they will have to rely on their wits courage faith and especially each other. Praise forXander and the Lost Island of Monsters: "With phantasmagorical environments flying white rats a fire-breathing bird a giant a snow demon and other creepy things there is abundant action. This retelling of a Japanese folktale celebrates courage friendship and pride of heritage while featuring unforgettable characters and leaving readers eager for the next installment in this new series." -Booklist "A breathless retelling of the Japanese legend of Momotaro this is an Asian version of Percy Jackson; adventure fans will be waiting for more." -- Kirkus "Though the story of Momotaro is familiar to every Japanese child Dilloway seamlessly weaves necessary background information into the fast action-filled plot. Xander a Japanese American boy hardly knows the legend himself so readers learn along with him. Xanders candid and straightforward first-person narration will instantly resonate with middle grade readers as will his storys themes of self-acceptance and friendship. Yoons comic-style illustrations evoke Xanders talent for drawing and bring welcome visual interest for reluctant readers. This fast-paced fantasy adventure with a foundation in Japanese culture is perfect for fans of Percy Jackson." -- School Library Journal