Common Sense Media Review
By JK Sooja
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Scary spirits, Asian American girl hero in solid fantasy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In ANZU AND THE REALM OF DARKNESS, Anzu is an Asian American girl who isn't proud of where she comes from. Kids at school make fun of her lunch and her name. But when she finds herself one day in Yomi, the spirit realm of the dead, she must somehow figure out a way back home. With the help of a guardian spirit dog, Anzu will fight against a powerful foe and find self-confidence, courage, and pride in her heritage along the way.
Is It Any Good?
This fantasy graphic novel wastes no time launching readers into its Shinto-inspired spirit world. There is an intriguing mystery that begins Anzu and the Realm of Darkness and a satisfying deepening of the stakes once Anzu gets herself familiar with the rules of the underworld. Without belaboring the real-world anxieties Anzu faces at home, the majority of this book finds Anzu romping through the spirit realm at a quick pace, facing threats, defeating monster demon spirits, and solving problems.
Once a mission that's bigger than herself becomes clear, Anzu doesn't hesitate to fight for it, despite her need to somehow make it home safe. Anzu's companion and supportive spirit guardian dog friend is a fun character, and he also has an arc, a personal journey of self-realization all his own. The art's colorful and creative, and the action is excitingly represented, at times in an anime style, that helps accentuate key moments.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about violence in fantasy graphic novels. Did any of the violence in Anzu and the Realm of Darkness seem too scary? What were the most scary parts?
How do Anzu and her companion show courage, integrity, and perseverance throughout the story? How does Anzu help the guardian of Yomi?
Why do you think the spirit demon woman was trying to capture the souls of children?
After Anzu's adventure, what does she learn?
Are you happy with how the story ended? How is Anzu different after returning from the spirit realm?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Mai K. Nguyen
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures
- Character Strengths : Courage , Integrity , Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Viking Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : May 7, 2024
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 256
- Available on : Paperback, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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