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A review by btwnprintedpgs
Anzu and the Realm of Darkness by Mai K. Nguyen
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I absolutely adored this book. The main messages were to believe in yourself and take up space, understanding that the choices you make impact who you are. Never let people make you feel small because you're different.
I loved the exploration of the underworld - the author notes that she mixes Shintoism with Buddhism - and it gives Studio Ghibli vibes in the best way.
Beautiful art and colorization; a strong, empowering story; and a heroine who learns to love who she is by the end of the story makes this book absolutely wonderful!
TW: kidnapping, death of a child, mass grave, murder, violence, bullying, racism
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
World Building: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Pacing: 5/5
Overall: 5/5
ARC gifted by Viking via Penguin Teen Canada in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the exploration of the underworld - the author notes that she mixes Shintoism with Buddhism - and it gives Studio Ghibli vibes in the best way.
Beautiful art and colorization; a strong, empowering story; and a heroine who learns to love who she is by the end of the story makes this book absolutely wonderful!
TW: kidnapping, death of a child, mass grave, murder, violence, bullying, racism
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
World Building: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Pacing: 5/5
Overall: 5/5
ARC gifted by Viking via Penguin Teen Canada in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence and Murder
Moderate: Bullying, Child death, Racism, and Kidnapping