Winnie Zeng Unleashes a Legend by Katie Zhao
Series: Winnie Zeng #1
Published by Random House Books for Young Readers on April 26, 2022
ISBN: 0593426576
Pages: 288
Genres: Fantasy, Humor, Supernatural
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

The level of action and the degree of humor makes this first book in the Winnie Zeng series a winner. As a new sixth grader Winnie has a full plate; her parents expect excellent grades, she wants to win a piano competition, and as a Chinese American she faces discrimination in her home town. If nothing else, Winnie has staying power; her character is a strong young woman who just might save her hometown.

Fantasy is a popular middle school genre; readers can get caught up in the story line even if they do not identify with the characters. Winnie is able to contact her deceased grandmother’s spirit while making a family treat recipe. Humor is employed to assist the paranormal theme which is both funny and scary.

Character development is only outdone by the fresh look at a Chinese American family and their cultural traditions. In addition to the spirit of her grandmother readers are introduced to the heroine’s parents, and her nemesis David. This is a good start for a series that will be enjoyed by most 4th -7th graders. Librarians in intermediate and middle schools as well as public librarians will want to start collecting this new series.

Reviewed by Jan Hamilton, Retired Youth Services Librarian