Reading this took me back to my elementary school days, when I was discovering the Percy Jackson books and life was simpler in the way it often is for kids. The Aru Shah series obviously features different characters and myths, but is reminiscent of Riordan’s books with its plentiful banter and pop culture references and humorous chapter titles. It’s, in my opinion, new but still nostalgic, and the lighthearted read I definitely needed right about now.

Although some parts in the first half didn’t really hold my attention and I found most of the twists easily predictable, I don’t consider either of those things flaws. I’m seven years older than both Aru and the average reader of these books, so I’m not going to be super critical. This also applies to the occasional cringey moments in the first half when Aru was still getting used to and slightly jealous of Brynne and Aiden. Twelve year olds will be twelve year olds.

Despite their initial clashing, the squad ended up growing on me. They handle most of what’s thrown at them really well, considering their age, and their friendship was super sweet. Friends who sing Mulan songs and quote the Lord of the Rings movies together stay together. Aiden was kind of like a mama bear, which was amusing; he did a great job standing in for the group’s usual mama bear Boo, the pigeon who was otherwise occupied this time around. That being said, one of my favorite parts was the reunion with Boo at the end.

I initially wasn’t sure if I’d continue the series, but I think I will. These books are a lot of fun, and I enjoyed listening to the audiobook when I didn’t feel like putting in the effort to do anything else. The narrator was great, by the way. I hope they narrate the other books too.

Also, beware, this book might make you crave Oreos. I do, and I don’t have any. Bummer.

Representation