The Healer and the Phoenix

Gr 2-4–In the fantastical world of Vang Lang, children visit the Choosing Place on their 10th birthday and receive an ally ­animal to help them live in harmony. Once a generation, a child might receive a legendary animal and therefore be chosen to join the ­Legendary ­Allies Team, which protects Van Lang and helps its people heal from the ills of The Dark Times like poverty, war, and climate change. When it’s Mai’s 10th birthday and she is given Ruby, the legendary phoenix, Mai is stunned. She is soon immersed in bonding with Ruby, training for the Legendary ­Allies Team, dealing with tensions among her new teammates, and overcoming her self-doubt as she prepares for her first quest. This first book in a four-part series is briskly paced, offering readers drama and excitement from the first pages. However, the plot is prioritized over character development; most primary characters are portrayed as one-dimensional and singularly motivated. Socially conscious and culturally inclusive, the story’s setting is based on an ancient Vietnamese kingdom, and the animal allies are inspired by Vietnamese ­mythology. Manga-style art complements the text, and the charming illustrations of the baby ­animal allies, especially Ruby, are a highlight. ­