(3) 4-6 Momotaro series. Illustrated by Choong Yoon. Xander (Xander and the Lost Island of Monsters) is adjusting to the return of his mother, a fairy. His fears of the oni are causing him nightmares, and his grandmother gives him a special baku charm--which brings its own dangers. Dilloway successfully makes Japanese folklore accessible to young adventure fans. Occasional creepy, atmospheric illustrations are interspersed.

Reviewer: Lisa Catherine Findlay

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Choong Yoon. California boy Xander Miyamoto discovers that he is the descendant of Japanese warriors charged with protecting the world from monsters--but will his mixed-race heritage be harmful or helpful to him? Small for a twelve-year-old and an artist, not an athlete, Xander wonders how he'll fare against the mythical-monsters-come-to-life in this fast-paced and original adventure based on Japanese mythology. Full-page illustrations included.

Reviewer: Jennifer M. Brabander

(4) YA Mio (The Name of the Blade; Darkness Hidden), her friends, and family must join together to fight a last epic battle against the ancient Japanese gods taking over London. Considerations of rebirth and revelation are added to the trilogy's previous themes of love, trust, and loss. More nuanced character development, as compared to prior installments, helps flesh out the protagonists in this pat conclusion to a familiar urban-fantasy trilogy.

Reviewer: Antonio Trujillo

(4) YA In this sequel to The Name of the Blade, Mio must fight demons, both inner and outer, if she wants to protect herself, her friends, and the city of London from supernatural havoc. Japanese mythological monsters, other dimensions, demonic possession, and magical swords all find a place in the modern-set fantasy. Exciting action sequences may distract readers from lazy character development.

Reviewer: Antonio Trujillo

(2) YA On an extended trip to Japan with his mother, Japanese American Ichiro's mixed-race heritage makes him feel like an outsider. In this satisfying and thought-provoking graphic novel, Inzana investigates the human tools of war-mongering and propaganda by interweaving mythological and historical examples. The fluid, expressive brushwork brings both the real world and the mythical Japanese creatures to life.

Reviewer: Robin Brenner | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2012