55 pages • 1 hour read •
Race to the Sun
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Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
Navajo Lands • Contemporary
2020
Rick Riordan Presents
Middle grade
8-12 years
Super Short Summary
In Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse, seventh grader Nizhoni Begay discovers she can detect monsters, leading her on a quest to rescue her kidnapped father from the evil Mr. Charles. With her brother Mac and friend Davery, Nizhoni seeks Spider Woman and weapons to defeat the shapeshifting monsters, paralleling the Navajo hero twins' tale. The narrative discusses racist rhetoric, violence, and parental abandonment, and it references anti-gay rhetoric.
Adventurous
Fantastical
Exciting
Inspirational
Playful
Reviews & Readership
6,519 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Rebecca Roanhorse's Race to the Sun captivates readers with its blend of Navajo mythology and modern adventure. Praises highlight its strong lead character and cultural authenticity. However, some find the pacing uneven. Overall, it is lauded for its compelling narrative and diverse representation, making it a vivid read for middle graders.
Who Should Read Race to the Sun?
A reader who enjoys Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse is typically a middle-grade student who revels in fast-paced fantasy adventures with strong, diverse protagonists. Fans of Rick Riordan's works, particularly his Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, will find similar appeal in Roanhorse's Navajo mythology-inspired narrative.
6,519 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Marcus "Mac" Begay
Marcus "Mac" Begay
Nizhoni’s younger brother, characterized by his artistic talent and lighthearted nature. He serves as Nizhoni's companion in their joint adventure, often providing comic relief and sibling camaraderie.
Davery
Davery
Nizhoni’s responsible best friend and ally, who supports her throughout her journey. Known for founding the Ancestor Club at their school, he assists with research and interpretation of Navajo legends and texts.
Mr. Yazzie
Mr. Yazzie
A horned toad toy associated with helpfulness in Navajo lore, who comes to life to assist Nizhoni in her journey. He offers guidance through enigmatic advice, proving to be a crucial yet enigmatic ally.
Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse is part of the Rick Riordan Presents imprint, which focuses on mythology and folklore-inspired stories by diverse authors.
This novel was a finalist for the 2021 Lodestar Award for Best Young Adult Book, an honor presented annually during the Hugo Awards.
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Rebecca Roanhorse incorporates Navajo (Diné) mythology into the narrative, introducing young readers to Native American cultural elements through fantasy adventure.
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320
Novel • Fiction
Navajo Lands • Contemporary
2020
Rick Riordan Presents
Middle grade
8-12 years
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