Common Sense Media Review
By Julian Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Exciting, philosophical Avatar novel has some violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In AVATAR LEGENDS: CITY OF ECHOES, 12-year-old Jin is an Earth Kingdom refugee in the capital Ba Sing Se after her parents were killed and her house was burned down by the Fire Nation. She balances caring for her sick grandfather, Gong-Gong, while continuing her calligraphy studies at the academy. The only place to really be a kid is with her friend Susu, whose family runs a bakery Jin makes deliveries for from time to time. But when Susu's father's gambling debts catch up with him, it's Susu who has to pay. As Jin does whatever she can to help bring her friend home, she discovers a disturbing conspiracy that threatens the Earth Kingdom capital. Jin must risk everything to protect her new home and save those she cherishes.
Is It Any Good?
Filled with humor, emotion, peril, romance, and action that's both entertaining and engaging, this Avatar spin-off is a great read. Fans will be excited to follow Jin (from one of the vignettes from the season 2 episode "Tales of Ba Singe Se") as her journey in City of Echoes deepens the lore of the show's world. Author Judy I. Lin skillfully tells Jin's story while incorporating themes readers will recognize from the series: perseverance, resistance to corruption and tyranny, finding one's identity, and overcoming loss.
As a refugee citizen of Ba Sing Se, Jin is managing her studies at a school that favors the elite (and where bullies target students like her) while trying to make a living delivering for her friend's bakery to support her ailing grandfather. When things in her life begin to fall apart, she's forced to become stronger, summon great courage, and grow as a person in order to protect those she holds dear—and, well, save all of Ba Sing Se from a secret plan for it's destruction. This is a well-written YA novel with an enticing story that both newcomers and fans of the animated franchise will enjoy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how City of Echoes focuses on growing up during a time of hardship and uncertainty. Is there a hardship that you've had to overcome in your life?
In the book, Jin demonstrates teamwork and courage alongside her friends. Have there been times when you've had to have courage or had to work together with other people?
Jin's perseverance attending school where there's a bias toward refugees demonstrates how she's willing to succeed. When have you or someone you know had to persevere through a tough situation at school? What did you learn from the experience?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Empathy , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Amulet Books
- Publication date : July 22, 2025
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 13 - 18
- Number of pages : 320
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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