Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor

An epic quest through history and myth

Xiran Jay Zhao author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Oneworld Publications

Published:7th Jul '22

Should be back in stock very soon

Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor cover

A humorous adventure where Zachary Ying, with the spirit of the First Emperor, must retrieve magical artifacts to save the world.

In Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor, the story unfolds as Zachary Ying, a young boy with little knowledge of his Chinese heritage, finds himself unexpectedly chosen to host the spirit of the First Emperor of China. This selection thrusts him into an adventure that he is far from prepared for, especially when the emperor's attempt to possess him goes awry, resulting in the spirit binding to Zach's AR gaming headset instead. This amusing twist sets the stage for an exhilarating journey filled with humor and action.

As the emperor's spirit communicates through the headset, Zach must embark on a quest across China to retrieve magical artifacts while facing legendary figures from both history and myth. The stakes are high, and the challenges are daunting, but with the help of newfound powers, including the ability to command a water dragon, Zach is determined to succeed. Each step of his journey is filled with excitement, as he navigates the complexities of his mission and the unique dynamics of his unusual partnership with the emperor.

Ultimately, Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor is a captivating tale that blends cultural elements with modern technology. It explores themes of identity, heritage, and the importance of understanding one's roots. As Zach races against time to complete his mission and save the mortal world, readers are taken on a delightful adventure that is both entertaining and enlightening.

’Fast-paced, furiously funny and utterly fantastic. I absolutely loved the combination of science-fiction, fantasy, Chinese history and mythology - and the battle scenes were completely epic!’ -- A.F. Steadman, author of Skandar and the Unicorn Thief
‘I started reading it and finished it in a day! There are so many things I adore about the book from the characters to the amazing and hilarious facts about Chinese history. It had me grinning all the way! It's a wonderful book and I will be raving about it to everyone I know for a long time.’  -- Ann Sei Lin, author of Rebel Skies

‘Culture and technology clash as Zachary Ying takes adventure to a new level!’

-- Kwame Mbalia, author of Tristan Strong

Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor is an edge-of-your-seat adventure that has you laughing on one page and cheering on the next. Zach is a gamer turned hero who goes on an epic quest across the globe only to find his greatest strength within. More, please!’

-- James Ponti, author of City Spies

‘Jam-packed with humour, heart, and hijinks, ZACHARY YING is the Chinese history class you wished you had at school. Exploring diaspora and intersectional identity in between magical heists and mythical creatures, this book is a marvel. I am officially a Xiran Jay Zhao stan!’

-- Graci Kim, author of The Last Fallen Star

'This is a truly amazing and exciting quest story for middle grade children...The combination of Chinese history, myths and modern gaming really works well and will attract a wide range of readers.'

-- Books for Keeps

‘Cue comedy and confusion… There is high-paced action throughout, packed with gaming and car chases, but there’s an emotional underbelly too… tense non-stop drama.’

-- Nic Bottomley of Mr B’s Emporium * Bath Life *

ISBN: 9780861545483

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: unknown

352 pages