Tristan Strong Destroys the World
by Kwame Mbalia
Tristan Strong is back in this high-stakes sequel that masterfully blends African American folklore with West African mythology. After his first adventure in Alke, Tristan is struggling with the weight of his experiences, but he doesn't have much time to heal. When his grandmother is kidnapped by a mysterious new villain seeking revenge, Tristan must return to the magical realm to save her. Alongside the feisty Gum Baby and the clever Anansi—who is now a 'web developer' inside Tristan’s phone—Tristan embarks on a journey that is as much about healing broken souls as it is about epic battles.
This book is perfect for children who love Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series and are looking for a story that combines intense action with deep emotional resonance. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in diverse mythologies and stories that tackle real-world issues like trauma and heritage within a fantastical setting. Kwame Mbalia’s writing is fast-paced, humorous, and conceptually brilliant, making it a great choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy immersive world-building and relatable heroes.
Highlights:
- Explores rich African American folk heroes and West African gods in a modern context.
- A powerful and nuanced look at processing trauma and the importance of family bonds.
- Features the return of fan-favorite characters like the hilariously aggressive Gum Baby.
- Non-stop action and adventure that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.