Description
Book Synopsis: “It’s a timeless story told in a timely way: Mayan codex meets superhero comic book”—New York Times
A middle grade graphic novel follows the adventures of a magical boy from Maya mythology. The first of a series based on ancient Mesoamerican myths and legends.
Sayam has always been different from other kids—he’s very short for his age, his best friend is a monkey, and most curious of all: he was born from an egg! His grandmother, a witch, found him and taught him all the ancient magic she uses to help her people. So when a giant snake starts terrorizing a nearby city, Sayam decides it’s time for him to use his knowledge to help others, and steps into action. But the beast might not be Sayam’s biggest problem: the ruthless King Kinich Kak Ek sees Sayam as a threat to his throne. Prophecy declares that whoever succeeds at three impossible tests will be king. Monstrous snakes and impossible tests are a lot for a boy to handle, but Sayam is brave and has a loyal monkey, a wise grandmother, and magical knowledge on his side!
Fans of adventure tales with a mythological focus—such as Bowles’ previous work with Latin American myths, The Chupacabras of the Rio Grande and the Garza Twin series, as well as Rick Riordan Presents, especially the Storm Runner novels—will love this exciting and accessible graphic novel. Rise of the Halfling King is also an invaluable educational tool for middle school students—it’s a well-researched introduction to Maya culture, made accessible by an expert in Mesoamerican culture and juvenile literature. Bowles previously stitched together tales from Maya, Aztec, and other ancient mythology from pre-Columbian Mexico in the critically-acclaimed YA book, Feathered Serpent, Dark Heart of Sky.
David Bowles is a Mexican American author and educator based in South Texas. He has written fourteen books. His middle grade novel-in-verse They Call Me Güero has been the recipient of numerous honors such as the Pura Belpré Honor, the Tomás Rivera Mexican American Children’s Book Award, the Claudia Lewis Award for Excellence in Poetry, the Walter Dean Myers Honor Award for Outstanding Children’s Literature, the Texas Institute of Letters Best Middle Grade Book Award, the Skipping Stones Award; the book is also an Américas Book Award Commended Title and was named in the Bluebonnet Award Masterlist. Some of his other books are Feathered Serpent, Dark Heart of Sky and The Smoking Mirror.
Charlene Bowles is a comic artist and illustrator based in Texas. She graduated from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in 2018. Rise of the Halfling King is her debut graphic novel and her work has also been featured on the covers of the award-winning Garza Twins books. She is currently developing many of her own comic projects.
Best Books of 2020, Middle Grade—Kirkus Reviews
2021 TLA Little Maverick list
101 Great Books for Kids List of 2020, Evanston Public Library
Details
Rise of the Halfling King: Tales of the Feathered Serpent #1 is not just another graphic novel. It's a captivating journey that combines Mayan mythology with the excitement of a superhero comic book. Written by Mexican American author and educator David Bowles, this middle grade graphic novel follows the adventures of Sayam, a magical boy born from an egg. Sayam's extraordinary abilities, wise grandmother, and loyal monkey companion make him the perfect hero to tackle the terrifying giant snake terrorizing a nearby city. But his bravery is not without challenges – the ruthless King Kinich Kak Ek sees Sayam as a threat to his throne, setting off a series of impossible tests. Are you ready to unravel ancient Mesoamerican myths and legends? Begin your adventure with Rise of the Halfling King!
As fans of adventure tales with a mythological focus, particularly those from Latin American myths, you won't want to miss Rise of the Halfling King. David Bowles, well-known for his work with The Chupacabras of the Rio Grande and the Garza Twin series, has expertly crafted an exciting and accessible graphic novel. If you're a fan of Rick Riordan Presents and the Storm Runner novels, prepare yourself for an adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Explore Maya culture through a well-researched narrative that has also been praised as an invaluable educational tool for middle school students. Rise of the Halfling King is the perfect blend of entertainment and learning.
David Bowles's impressive credentials continue to shine in Rise of the Halfling King. As a Mexican American author and educator, his dedication to promoting cultural representation and diversity in literature is admirable. With fourteen books under his belt, including the critically-acclaimed Feathered Serpent, Dark Heart of Sky, Bowles is an expert in intertwining ancient mythology with contemporary storytelling. His ability to create wonderfully imaginative tales that resonate with readers of all ages shines brilliantly in Rise of the Halfling King.
Charlene Bowles, an exceptionally talented comic artist and illustrator, brings the characters of Rise of the Halfling King to life in her debut graphic novel. With her work showcased on the covers of the award-winning Garza Twins books, Bowles proves she is a rising star in the industry. Her vibrant and captivating illustrations leap off the pages and add an extra layer of depth to this already engaging story. Charlene's illustrations are guaranteed to leave readers spellbound and eagerly awaiting her upcoming comic projects.
Don't miss out on this incredible literary adventure! Immerse yourself in the world of Rise of the Halfling King, a graphic novel that combines ancient mythology, thrilling action, and unforgettable characters. Join Sayam as he faces monstrous snakes, impossible tests, and the pursuit of his destiny. Are you ready to be captivated by the magical world of Sayam and Maya mythology? Start your journey by grabbing your copy of Rise of the Halfling King today.
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