Review: Simon Grey and the March of a Hundred Ghosts, by Charles Kowalski

⬂↘⬊ Initial Thoughts ⬋↙⬃

       I am so excited to review my FIRST EVER physical ARC that was sent to me by Charles Kowalski in exchange for an honest review! Simon Grey is a brand new series about a boy who can see ghosts in the early 1600s. This first book is perfect for younger teens because it reels in readers from the start and has them on the edge of their seats throughout the book. I loved being able to experience Simon’s adventures as he traveled to Japan, and I can’t wait to see what his future holds!

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⬂↘⬊ Let’s Go On An Adventure ⬋↙⬃

       It has been a long time since I’ve read a story that focused solely on an adventure or quest. In most YA books, a big part of the story is about the romance. Now, don’t get me wrong, I am a sucker for a good romance story, but this book was just a refreshing break from what I usually read. While there were tiny little hints that romance could come in future books, I’m glad the author chose to hold off on that storyline until after we immerse ourselves in Simon’s world. Throughout Simon’s adventure, there is a ton of action. I never felt like there was a bland chapter, and the story gripped me from start to finish.

⬂↘⬊ New Mythology in YA ⬋↙⬃

       Watch out, Rick Riordan, because there is new mythology in town. As a girl who grew up with Percy Jackson before Harry Potter, the world of demigods and Greek myths has a special place in my heart. However...I am excited to be able to broaden my horizons when it comes to my mythological knowledge. Since the Percy Jackson franchise is enormous, I think authors have shied away from creating something like it. It’s such a shame because I believe there are kids out there who want to learn about more things than just Greek (and Roman) mythology. The Simon Grey series is the start of a brand new world for kids to discover, and I cannot wait to see what they think.

⬂↘⬊ A Story For Everyone ⬋↙⬃

       While the intended audience for this series is the younger side of YA, I think it has elements that make it enjoyable for all readers. First and foremost, the narration throughout the story is hilarious. Though Simon would find himself in some pretty unfortunate circumstances, there was always a light feel to the story with some iconic laugh-out-loud dialogue. Not only did the humor appeal to all readers, but I also felt like the historical elements catered to a wide range of readers. From a personal viewpoint, the little bits of history were fun for me to discover since I remember learning about those events in school. I think having a connection between school lessons, and a beloved book will take away resistance to schooling and make learning World History that much more enjoyable for younger students.

⬂↘⬊ Overall ⬋↙⬃

       I am so grateful that Charles sent me a copy of his book, and I’m so excited for you all to read it! Happy Book Birthday to Simon Grey, and be sure to go get a copy today!

Your yokai lover,
Ashton

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       Alone and lost in haunted Japan...
       Japan, 1620: A mysterious shipwreck has left cabin boy Simon Grey stranded in an unfamiliar, dangerous land.
       He hoped that a long sea voyage would provide some relief from his "gift" of seeing ghosts everywhere on land. Instead, he finds that his ability draws him into the shadowy world of yokai, the spirits and monsters that roam Japan by night. Together with the mysterious Oyuki, daughter of an English sailor-turned-samurai, Simon must earn the yokai's trust and help, while staying one step ahead of the Shogun's guards and an evil sorcerer determined to discover the "secret" of Simon's powers.
       As they struggle to stay alive and find a way home, Simon and Oyuki deal with friends and foes from both sides of the grave.

⬂↘⬊ Discuss ⬋↙⬃
What is your favorite mythology to learn about?
​Leave any similar YA recommendations in the comments!