Graci Kim

Graci Kim is a New Zealand diplomat turned children's fantasy author, best known for writing The Last Fallen Star and other books in the Gifted Clans series published through Rick Riordan Presents. Her work draws heavily from Korean mythology and folklore while incorporating contemporary urban fantasy elements. As a Korean-New Zealander, Kim weaves themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage throughout her middle-grade novels. The Gifted Clans series follows Korean-American protagonist Riley Oh in a magical world of Korean witchcraft hidden within modern-day Los Angeles. Prior to becoming an author, Kim served as a diplomat for the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Her first novel The Last Fallen Star was published in 2021, followed by The Last Fallen Moon in 2022 and The Last Fallen Realm in 2023. Kim currently resides in New Zealand where she continues to write fantasy fiction for young readers. Her work has been recognized with several accolades including being named a Kids' Indie Next List pick and receiving starred reviews from major publishing industry publications.

Readers praise Kim's integration of Korean mythology into contemporary middle-grade fantasy, with many highlighting the authentic representation of Korean-American experiences. Parents and teachers note the books resonate with Asian-American youth seeking characters who reflect their backgrounds. Readers liked: - Fast-paced plotting and humor - Detailed Korean cultural elements and food descriptions - Complex family dynamics - Strong female protagonist Riley Oh Common criticisms: - Some found the first book's pacing uneven - Magical system explanations could be clearer - Supporting characters need more development Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: The Last Fallen Star - 4.2/5 (5,800+ ratings) The Last Fallen Moon - 4.3/5 (1,900+ ratings) The Last Fallen Realm - 4.4/5 (900+ ratings) Amazon: Series averages 4.7/5 (2,000+ combined ratings) Reader quote: "Finally a fantasy series that lets Korean kids see themselves as heroes while teaching everyone about our mythology and culture." - Goodreads reviewer

The Last Fallen Star (2021) A 12-year-old adoptee in a family of Korean healing witches attempts a risky spell to save her sister's life, leading to discoveries about her own identity within the magical community of Los Angeles.

The Last Fallen Moon (2022) Riley Oh travels to the Korean spirit realm seeking to become a celestial warrior after her sister becomes comatose from a previous quest.

The Last Fallen Realm (2023) Riley Oh must unite the magical communities to prevent a war between the mortal and spirit worlds while uncovering secrets about her past.

Rick Riordan incorporates mythology into contemporary middle-grade adventures featuring young heroes discovering their magical heritage. His Percy Jackson series established him as a leader in mixing cultural myths with modern storytelling.

Roshani Chokshi writes fantasy based on Hindu mythology and follows young protagonists navigating magical realms. Her Aru Shah series features Korean-American characters dealing with identity while battling supernatural forces.

Yoon Ha Lee blends Korean folklore with science fiction and fantasy elements in middle-grade novels. His Dragon Pearl draws from Korean mythology while exploring themes of family and belonging.

Xiran Jay Zhao writes stories inspired by East Asian history and mythology with contemporary twists. Their work features young protagonists discovering their powers while wrestling with cultural expectations and identity.

Lori M. Lee creates fantasy worlds influenced by Asian folklore and mythology. Her books feature young characters uncovering family secrets while navigating magical powers and cultural heritage.