Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor

Embark on an exhilarating adventure with "Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor, " the first book in the "Zachary Ying" series by Xiran Jay Zhao. This captivating fantasy novel seamlessly blends Chinese mythology with modern technology, offering a unique narrative that appeals to readers aged 13 to 17. The story follows Zachary Ying, a teenager who has always been disconnected from his Chinese heritage. Raised by his single mother and immersed in Western history and myths at school, Zach is unprepared when he discovers he is destined to host the spirit of China's first emperor. Tasked with closing a portal to the Chinese underworld before the Ghost Month begins, Zach faces the daunting challenge of preventing spirits from invading the mortal realm. The mission takes an unexpected turn when the emperor's spirit mistakenly attaches itself to Zach's AR gaming headset, leading to a series of events that result in his mother's soul being captured by demons. Now, Zach must journey across China, guided by the emperor's spirit, to retrieve magical artifacts and confront historical and mythical figures. Failure means the underworld's spirits will overrun the world of the living, and Zach will lose his mother forever. This novel is perfect for readers interested in Chinese mythology, magical adventures, and stories of family and identity. Its engaging plot and relatable characters provide both entertainment and insight into cultural heritage.