This exciting new series encourages readers to take a look at their past to discover their true self as our history, culture, and long-passed family members all form who we become today. We follow young Prince Sing on this epic journey to learn more about his ancestors. At the same time we find ourselves learning more about his present character, as he begins figuring out his place in the grand universe across family, magic and time.
Looking to reclaim their family’s ancestral home, the Wong Clan sets out across the barren and rocky Dragon Path. Narrow passages through mountainous landscape leave them vulnerable to hidden and known enemies, like the Dragon Tribe. Prince Sing, both wise beyond his years and quite the risk taker, is fighting for independence, while his family tries their best to protect him from outside dangers. The clan is ambushed while at one of the narrowest points along the Dragon Path and has to defend themselves, their land, and their ancestor’s name.
Author Ethan Young is probably best known for his comic Nanjing: The Burning City, which was a 2016 Reuben Award winner for Best Graphic Novel. He does not disappoint with this whole new mythological adventure middle school series. I enjoyed Nanjing, and would recommend it as well. This new series will remind readers of Gene Luen Yang’s Avatar: The Last Airbender graphic novel series. He wonderfully weaves historical elements in with a relatable storyline.
The artwork includes interesting details and yet is a simplistic style that young readers will love. There are plenty of action scenes, fun characters (including a caticorn—a cat unicorn), and inventive machines. Ancient prophecies are brought to life and we see traditional symbols and elements throughout the panels. Author Young must have a vivid imagination to combine all of these components together.
Overall this graphic novel series will surely be a hit with middle schoolers who are looking for a legendary action-adventure story. It hits all the major points. Beautiful artistic style, creative characters, historical elements, a relatable protagonist, and a well-written suspenseful storyline. Readers will be flipping pages to see what happens next and be done before they know it. This title includes lessons in growing up, standing up for what you believe is right, and family tradition. It’s a great series starter and I’ll be looking for the next one when it’s released.
The Dragon Path
By Ethan Young
Scholastic Graphix, 2021
ISBN: 9781338363296
Publisher Age Rating: 10-14
Series ISBNS and Order
NFNT Age Recommendation: Middle Grade (7-11), Tween (10-13)
Creator Representation: Chinese-American
