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Publisher's Note:

Thirteen-year-old Lani Li has grown up with the legendary tales of the Eight Invincible Brothers—Chinese heroes who used their superpowers to conquer every challenge. Lani has always wished she could be as brave as them. Now, she’s about to face her own test of courage. When her elite performance band is chosen to perform in London, Lani should be thrilled. But with too many fears to count and her little brother, Gavin, unable to join her due to a serious heart condition, the trip feels more daunting than exciting. Before she leaves, Gavin gives her a challenge: tap into her own hidden strength by embodying the Eight Invincible Brothers—each with a special power. In London, Lani creates her own "Invincible List" based on the fable, and as she checks off each quality, she discovers that these "superpowers" might not be as far-fetched as they seem. But when the final challenge demands that she face a daunting fear—running down the famous Cooper's Hill in a wild cheese race—Lani wonders if she has what it takes to complete the list. With her brother’s courage as her guide, can Lani conquer her fears and prove she’s invincible in her own way? Or will this last challenge be the one that defeats her? Filled with heart, adventure, and a dash of humor, The Invincible List of Lani Li is a story about finding strength in unexpected places—and learning that the greatest superpower might just be believing in yourself.…

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The Invincible List of Lani Li

by Veeda Bybee

Reviewer: Jenny
Genre: Fiction
Recommended Age: 9+

Overall Book Review:

The Invincible List of Lani Li is a captivating story rich in adventure and challenges.

There are so many things to love about this book. The main character, Lani Li, is preparing for a trip to London to perform with her elite band. She comes from an incredibly supportive and close-knit family, some of whom plan to join her on the trip until a tragic event occurs.

The narrative provides something for everyone, from Chinese mythology that adds adventure to the story, to teaching about various global cultures. Musical terms are woven throughout, offering delightful “Easter eggs” for music enthusiasts. Several sports references are also present. The heartwarming inclusion of family bonding and improving relationships adds significant depth to the plot. Author Veeda Bybee has crafted a compelling tale of sacrifice, overcoming fears, and facing challenges that will undoubtedly inspire readers. The story imparts valuable lessons, demonstrating that hard work yields rewards and that sometimes one must sacrifice desires for necessities.

Review of copy provided by Shadow Mountain

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language: None

Violence/Gore: Several (19) brief incidents including character feels like he’s getting punched in the chest; character tackles another one; character worried she will die on a scooter; character in a story put in fire but not hurt; character in a dream reaches into child’s chest to grab heart; dream of character attacking and character dies; song that reference celebration of the dead; character afraid that her plane with crash; verbal threats; characters in story preparing to fight; signs that explain how people died to save someone else; army swept out to sea in a story; character falls and sprains arm; character hits head; character passes out; surgery complications leaving person in a coma.

Sex/Nudity: Few (2) brief incidents including girl thinks a boy is cute; boy squeezes girl’s hand.

Mature Subject Matter:

Character has congenital heart condition that needs surgery which has complications; fear of heights.

Alcohol/Drug Use:

None

Overall Book Rating
Profanity/Language
Rating:
0
10
Violence/Gore
Rating:
2
10
Sex/Nudity
Rating:
1
10

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About the Reviewer

Jenny
I love being able to help busy parents who just don’t have the time to pre-screen all their children’s books and know how much I appreciate it as my sons have gotten older. I feel very blessed that my amazing husband makes it possible for me to be a stay-at-home mother to four amazing boys. When not reading or enjoying time with my family, I like baking, especially trying new recipes, and the occasional sewing project.

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