I can see kids that are fans of Percy Jackson and other mythology-focused action-packed stories really liking this. I loved the authentic and fun way Hawaiian mythos inspired and made the plot, there were several companions (or foes) that I enjoyed reading about. Kamapua’a, the mo’o, and Makani (my beloved, friendly genderless wind) were my personal favorites.

I’m also Coloradan, so although the references were to already well-known places, I appreciated them nonetheless. This isn’t my first time reading a local author, but it was my first time reading a diaspora story with a character living pretty close to me. I will admit, though, that the Gen Z lingo and pop culture references were a bit too much for me at times. (But. Specifically the lingo wasn’t nearly as pandering as some YA books I’ve read.) This, consequently, made Ilikei a very annoying character for the first quarter or half, especially when she was Anna/Lei’s only companion. Or maybe I just thought that because I dislike comic relief characters?

Also, the open-ended but still optimistic outlook on the Ripley side plot bothered me. She doesn’t seem like a good friend to Anna, I don’t see why she would try to gain back her approval. (I hope this will be addressed in the next book.)

But overall, I still enjoyed this (and I am sure the actual target demographic will enjoy it even more). Anna’s self-acceptance was very well-paced, and I will definitely be picking up the sequel to see how her, Kaipo and Ilikea’s future unfolds. Hopefully her Tūtū can have more story involvement?