The Invincible List of Lani Li

Gr 5-7–A heartfelt journey of self-discovery intertwined with rich cultural myths and the complexities of family life. Lani Li, the seventh of eight siblings, has just completed eighth grade and is passionate about music, playing the saxophone in a competition band called the Moonlight. As she prepares for a band competition in London, her plans are complicated by her younger brother Gavin, who has a heart condition and dreams of participating in a cheese-wheel race. When Gavin’s health takes a turn, he asks Lani to run in the race for him, prompting her to confront her fears and embrace her family’s legacy, inspired by the eight invincible brothers from a Chinese myth. Bybee’s lyrical descriptions bring the narrative to life, painting vivid imagery that enhances the emotional depth of Lani’s journey. The incorporation of Chinese mythology, particularly the eight invincible brothers, serves as a powerful metaphor for Lani’s personal struggles and growth. Readers will find Lani relatable as she navigates the pressures of family expectations while discovering her own identity. The illustrations, crafted in the traditional Chinese brush painting style of “shuǐ-mò,” beautifully complement the text, capturing the essence of the story and its cultural references. While the narrative may occasionally lean on familiar tropes, it does so with a fresh perspective that honors the complexities of familial love and cultural heritage. The vocabulary and themes are accessible, yet they resonate with deeper meanings that will engage readers across various backgrounds.