March 15, 2024
Shaman-in-training Winnie is excited to go to camp in the spiritual realm and have a chance to become a champion, just like her grandmother. Following the events of Winnie Zeng Vanquishes a King (2023), Chinese American Winnie is informed by Lao Lao, her overspirit grandmother, of an upcoming 10-day winter break shaman camp. It includes a tournament where shamans battle for the coveted title of Shaman Youth Champion. ("Grand prize: A sparring lesson with a legendary spirit of your choosing. Runner-up: A surprise shaman goody bag.") While Winnie struggles with mastering advanced skills, such as True Flight, and finding confidence in her magic, trouble is stirring. She overhears Spirit Council members talking about evil spirits, foul play, and shamans who don't seem quite themselves. And then the tournament reveals more abnormalities. Winnie's friend remarks on an opponent's sudden surge in speed and power, and then Winnie battles shamans whose eyes strangely glow red. The well-structured narrative quickly picks up in pace as the evil spirits unveil their wicked endgame and plans for domination that reference Chinese mythology. Winnie and her friends attempt to hold them at bay, mustering all the skills in their possession and attempting not to be completely overwhelmed in the process. While the buildup to the climax is full of suspense, the neat resolution is comparatively brisk, but readers will be having too much fun to mind. One enjoyable action-packed ride. (recipes) (Fantasy. 8-12)
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