For the child who loves epic quests and discovering their true identity, this book plunges a young hero into the heart of Maya mythology, where family secrets and destiny collide.
A parent might reach for this book when their child is grappling with family expectations or feels defined by a reputation that isn't their own. It's perfect for middle graders who are discovering who they are, separate from their family, and learning to embrace the parts of themselves that seem 'different' or even a little dark. The final book in The Storm Runner trilogy, The Shadow Crosser follows Zane Obayan, the godborn son of the Maya god of death, on a high-stakes quest to rescue his father from a rival god. Zane must journey through the underworld, team up with gods and demigods, and confront his deepest fears about his own identity and power. This action-packed fantasy adventure is a thrilling read that also provides powerful representation of Maya mythology and features a hero with a physical disability, making it an excellent choice for kids aged 9 to 13 who love epic quests and stories of self-acceptance.
Descriptions of the underworld and encounters with powerful, threatening mythological beings.
Character DeathMild
Some fantasy/mythological characters are defeated or destroyed, but without a focus on grief.
Sensitive Topics
The book deals extensively with death and the underworld, but in a mythological, metaphorical context. It is about a cosmic realm and its rulers, not a direct exploration of human grief or mortality. The resolution is hopeful. Zane's core struggle is with his identity and the fear that he is destined for evil because of his parentage. The story strongly reinforces the theme of choice over destiny, ending on an empowering and optimistic note for the protagonist.
Ideal Reader
The ideal reader is a 10 to 13-year-old who has devoured the Percy Jackson series and is eager for mythology from a different culture. This book is perfect for a child who feels misunderstood or is wrestling with their family's reputation, wondering how they can forge their own path. It will especially resonate with kids who appreciate heroes who aren't perfect but are defined by their courage and loyalty.
Parent Prep
This is the third book in a series. It is essential to read the first two books, "The Storm Runner" and "The Fire Keeper," for the story to make sense. Parents should be aware that the book is full of fantasy violence (battles with monsters and gods) and deals with themes of death and the underworld, but it is all handled within a mythological, age-appropriate framework. No specific scenes require previewing for a child comfortable with the genre. A parent might seek this book after hearing their child say something like: "Everyone thinks I'm going to be just like my dad, but I'm not," or express feelings of being an outsider due to their family or background. It's also a great choice when a parent is actively looking for fantasy books with Hispanic/Latine characters or non-European mythological traditions.
Age Experience
A younger reader (9-10) will be captivated by the non-stop action, the incredible monsters, and the epic quest. They will see it as a thrilling adventure. An older reader (11-13) will connect more deeply with Zane's internal conflict. They will better understand the nuances of his complicated relationship with his father and the themes of destiny, choice, and what it means to embrace the 'shadow' parts of one's identity.
What Makes It Special
Its foundation in Maya mythology is a significant differentiator in a market saturated with Greek and Roman myths. Furthermore, the protagonist's identity as the son of the god of death (a traditional antagonist) creates a unique and compelling internal conflict about good versus evil and inherited identity. The consistent, positive representation of a protagonist with a physical disability (a limp) throughout the series is also a key feature.
Read plot summary
This is the third and final book in The Storm Runner series. Zane Obayan, son of the Maya god of death Ah-Puch, learns his father has been captured and imprisoned by the malevolent god of the underworld, Camazotz. To prevent a war among the gods and save his dad, Zane must embark on a quest through Xib'alqa, the Maya underworld. He is joined by his best friend Brooks, a shapeshifter, and other allies including the goddess Ixtab. Along the way, he confronts terrifying monsters, navigates godly politics, and uncovers long-held secrets. Ultimately, Zane must accept his unique identity as a 'shadow crosser', a being who can navigate both the world of the living and the dead, to fulfill his destiny and save everyone he loves.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Zane struggles with being the son of Ah-Puch, the god of death. How does he learn to accept and use his 'shadow' powers for good? Do you think it's fair for others to judge him based on his father?
2
Brooks, Ren, and Hondo are loyal friends to Zane. Think of a moment when one of his friends helped him when he was doubting himself. Why is it important to have friends who believe in you?
3
Zane is told he has a specific destiny as the Shadow Crosser. Do you think he was just following a path that was already decided, or did his own choices shape the outcome?
4
Zane’s relationship with his father, Ah-Puch, is very complicated. In what ways is Ah-Puch a villain, and in what ways is he a loving father? How does their relationship change by the end of the book?
