THE MAGIC PAINTBRUSH

Being the guardian of a paintbrush with magical powers isn’t all fun and games.

With seventh grade out for the year in Port Jefferson, New York, Chinese American Amy Li is ready to enjoy summer vacation with her best friend, Diego, and Luna, a part-tiger, part-bird friend whom she brought to life with an ancient magical jade paintbrush. As the newest guardian of the paintbrush, Amy can make the things she imagines real by painting them. This power amazes Amy every time, but it’s also a big responsibility, as she finds out when she uses the paintbrush to open a portal to another world and discovers that within two weeks, she must complete the Trial that will replenish the paintbrush’s powers if she hopes to remain its guardian. Alongside Diego, Luna, and a mysterious talking cat, Amy faces beings inspired by Chinese mythology who have the power to help or hinder her. With the paintbrush’s magic failing, she will have to rely on her friends and her own instincts to succeed. Themes of friendship and trust permeate the story, as well as lessons on learning from your mistakes and from intuition. A heartwarming story with a healthy dose of action and danger, this worthy second series entry sees Amy striking out on her own. Final art not seen.

Magic, wonder, and the power of creation combine in this tale of trials and rewards.