Review: The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes

The Storm Runner 

(The Storm Runner #1) 

By J.C. Cervantes 

September 1, 2018 

Rick Riordan Presents 

Source: ARC from pub 

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A contemporary adventure based on Maya mythology from Rick Riordan Presents! 

Zane has always enjoyed exploring the dormant volcano near his home in New Mexico, even though hiking it is challenging. He'd much rather hang out there with his dog, Rosie, than go to middle school, where kids call him Sir Limps a Lot, McGimpster, or Uno—for his one good leg. What Zane doesn't know is that the volcano is a gateway to another world and he is at the center of a powerful prophecy. A new girl at school, Brooks, informs him that he's destined to release an evil god from the ancient Maya relic he is imprisoned in—unless she can find and remove it first. Together they return to the volcano, where all kinds of crazy happens. Brooks turns into a hawk, a demon attacks them in a cave, and Rosie gives her all while trying to protect Zane. When Zane decides to save his dog no matter the cost, he is thrust into an adventure full of surprising discoveries, dangerous secrets, and an all-out war between the gods, one of whom happens to be his father. To survive, Zane will have to become the Storm Runner. But how can he run when he can't even walk well without a cane? 

Feisty heroes, tricky gods, murderous demons, and spirited giants are just some of the pleasures that await in this fresh and funny take on Maya mythology, as rich and delicious as a mug of authentic hot chocolate. 

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Zane, born with a leg shorter than the other and a limp, rather explore the volcano by his house with his dog Rosie, than go to school and face the bullies. Then Brooks, a mysterious new girl at school informs Zane of a prophecy that he’s the star of. According to Brooks, Zane is destined to release an evil God from his prison, unless she can find the secret prison first. Zane’s unforgettable adventure begins deep in his volcano and is full of demons, hawk girls, squabbling gods and goddesses, and a mighty mission to save his beloved Rosie. 

The Storm Runner is the second book from the Rick Riordan Presents and is a wonderful addition to this awesome imprint that celebrates diversity and own voices! Full of captivating Maya mythology, action-packed adventure, and diverse characters, The Storm Runner is a breathtaking treat from beginning to end. 

Author J.C. Cervantes spins a spellbinding story overflowing with humor, heart, and head spinning thrills. Cervantes immerses readers in the fascinating world of Maya mythology and brings key players and stories within this mythology to life in big, amusing ways. Young readers will love diving into this epic mythology and be inspired to learn even more about this vastly intriguing and intricate world. Like the worlds found in Rick Riordan’s mythology inspired books, Cervantes gives her Maya gods, goddesses, and other beings larger than life personalities, creating entertaining and always surprising characters.  

And while the various gods and goddesses are lots of fun, it’s the younger characters in The Storm Runner that really shine. From brave Zane, loyal Brooks, and funny Hondo, Cervantes offer readers engaging, diverse, and relatably flawed characters that readers will root for, admire, and see themselves in.  

Twists and turns abound in this book as Zane and readers are taken on a heart-pounding thrill ride across the country, across realms, and across reality. Bursting with all things mythical, fantastical, and down-right cool, young readers will find The Storm Runner unputdownable!

MY RATING

5/5 Cupcakes

Jen (J.C) is an award-winning children’s author; her most recent book, THE STORM RUNNER  is scheduled for release in September 2018 with its sequel THE FIRE KEEPER, coming in 2019. As an author, she has earned multiple awards and recognitions, including the New Mexico Book Award, Zia Book Award, and was named a New Voices Pick by the American Booksellers Association for her first book Tortilla Sun.  

Jen's a champion of the underdog, an advocate for more POC in children's fiction, and a believer in magic. But only if you’re willing to listen to the whispers of the universe. 

Follow her on Twitter @jencerv and Instagram authorjcervantes