Pahua and the Soul Stealer

Pahua Moua is an eleven-year-old Hmong American girl who can see spirits. Along with her cat spirit companion Miv, she navigates life between the human world and the spirit realm while trying to keep her unique abilities hidden from others. When Pahua accidentally releases a demon that steals her brother's soul, she must embark on a quest to save him. Her journey leads her to partner with a shaman-in-training from the Zhong organization, and together they venture into the spirit realm to confront supernatural forces. The story incorporates elements of Hmong mythology and folklore throughout the narrative, featuring spirits, demons, and magical creatures from Southeast Asian traditions. Pahua must learn about her heritage and develop her spiritual powers while racing against time to rescue her brother. Through Pahua's quest, the book explores themes of family bonds, cultural identity, and self-discovery. The narrative weaves together contemporary middle-grade adventure with traditional Hmong spiritual beliefs and coming-of-age elements.

Readers found the Hmong representation authentic and appreciated learning about Hmong folklore through an adventure story. Several reviews highlighted the strong sibling relationship between Pahua and Matt, calling it relatable and emotionally resonant. Liked: - Clear explanations of Hmong culture and traditions - Fast-paced action scenes - Detailed spirit world building - Humor throughout dialogue Disliked: - Some found the plot predictable - Pacing felt rushed in final chapters - Side characters needed more development - Magic system rules were sometimes unclear Multiple readers noted it works well as a standalone story while leaving room for more adventures. Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (280+ ratings) BookBrowse: 4.5/5 (42 ratings) "Perfect blend of scary and funny moments" - Goodreads reviewer "Would have liked more time with the spirit companions" - Amazon reviewer

Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi A seventh-grade girl discovers she is a reincarnation of an ancient being and must venture into Hindu mythology to save her mother from stone imprisonment.

The Last Fallen Star by Graci Kim A Korean-American adoptee in a family of witches casts a forbidden spell to heal her sister and becomes entangled in a quest through Los Angeles' magical community.

Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse A Navajo girl embarks on a journey through the desert Southwest with her younger brother to save her father from monsters of Native American legend.

The Dragon Warrior by Katie Zhao A Chinese-American girl must prove herself worthy as a warrior and complete a series of impossible tasks to prevent demons from breaking into the mortal world.

The Storm Runner by Jennifer Cervantes A thirteen-year-old boy with a leg length difference discovers his connection to Maya mythology and must prevent the awakening of an ancient deity who threatens to destroy the world.

🌟 Author Lori M. Lee drew from her Hmong heritage to create Pahua's story, incorporating traditional Hmong folklore and mythology throughout the novel 🌺 The book features a neeb ceremony, which is a real Hmong shamanic ritual performed to heal spiritual ailments and guide lost souls 🌟 Many Hmong people, like Pahua in the story, believe in parallel spirit worlds that exist alongside our own 🌺 The book is part of the Rick Riordan Presents imprint, which specifically publishes middle-grade fantasy adventures based on global mythologies 🌟 Cats are considered spiritual protectors in Hmong culture, which is reflected in Pahua's relationship with her spirit cat, Miv