Monkey King and the World of Myths: The Monster and the Maze A Graphic Novel

Praise for Monkey King and the World of Myths:

A Kirkus Reviews Best of Middle Grade Pick (2024)!
A CALA Best Children's Book Winner (2025)!

A stellar illustration of the time-honored, universal power of friendship, communication, and mutual trust. Lam again weaves a colorful and exhilarating pictorial narrative that will delight readers . . . [ and her] charmingly expressive and endearing illustrations add humor to this rollicking adventure. Kirkus (starred review) on The Battle of the Beasts

This humorous and heartfelt series opener is packed with exciting action scenes and a whole lot of monkey business unfolding in cute, colorful, and exaggerated illustrations that are reminiscent of manga. Lam seamlessly weaves together threads from Chinese and Greek mythology to great effect, throws in a cast of highly likable characters, and presents a compelling story focused on a quest for friendship, self-acceptance, and belonging. A thrilling, wholesome remix of a classic Chinese tale. Kirkus (starred review) on The Monster and the Maze

Wukong is perceptive and kind, and he quickly realizes that there is almost never anything in the world as simple as pure good or evil. The artwork vibrates with action and humor. . . [but] nothing is too visually intimidating in this colorful, zippy graphic novel. The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Lam intertwines lessons in employing critical thinking skills to understand others with fast-paced writing and appealing panel illustrations. With plenty of humor, adventure, and heart, this first book makes for a rousing read. Horn Book

A funny, inventive opener. Maple Lam weaves together elements from different world mythologies in clever, playful ways that will leave kids excited to join the Monkey King on his next adventure. LitHub.com

"Perfect for fans of mythology or those just learning these stories for the first time, The Monkey King and the World of Myths is an extremely fun comic that makes the most of its clever premise." Good Comics for Kids

"An action-packed and adorable blend of mythological worlds that highlights the power of understanding. Monkey King and the World of Myths reminds us that, with the help of their friends, even outsiders will find where they belong. This compelling and truly unique blend of cultural histories will fill your heart and leave you with a big smile on your face." Andy Runton, Eisner-Award winning creator of the Owly Series

"Maple Lam does not monkey around. Monkey King is action-packed, heartfelt, and funny from start to finish!" James Burks, creator of the Agent 9 and Bird & Squirrel series

"I had a blast following Sun Wukong on his hilarious adventures as he navigates world myths retold with a twist." Remy Lai, award-winning creator of Pie in the Sky

"A fantastic retelling of an old classic tale from the East." Dan Santat, Caldecott Medalist and New York Times bestselling creator of The Aquanaut and After the Fall

"A kinetic, bombastic, and wholly original cartoon take on classic mythology, exalting in the strength found in self-acceptance and the love of good friends." Shannon Watters, Eisner Award-winning and New York Times bestselling co-creator of the Lumberjanes series

Young mythology lovers will adore this funny, action-packed, and playful spin on the classic tales. The illustrations are so cute and fun. BookRiot

Filled with cute artwork A fun introduction to the Monkey King for a younger audience, with room for sequels. Recommended. School Library Journal