Lulu Sinagtala and the City of Noble Warriors (Lulu Sinagtala and the Tagalog Gods #1)

All 11-year-old Luningning Sinagtala wants is "an ordinary life" in the Philippines with her adoptive Chinese Filipina mother and sister Kitty, also 11, in this high-energy exploration of Tagalog mythology, strong relationships, and self-identity by Villanueva (Sugar and Spite). But their physical differences ("My being dark and flat-nosed means I'm not 'pretty'") and her epilepsy make her feel like the odd one out. And when strange things begin happening to Lulu that other people don't seem to remember afterward--such as her single-handedly stopping a truck from hitting her and Kitty--she feels even more at odds with her family. As enchanted creatures descend upon her community, seeming intent on finding and targeting Lulu, she realizes that the Tagalog myths she learned about in school are real, and that she's been chosen by the Anito, or the spirits, to wield their power to protect the universe. Laugh-out-loud humor and a plethora of pop-culture references add contemporary sparkle to this vividly imagined and riveting fantasy adventure starring a charming protagonist whose quick wit and loyalty, as well as love for those around her, make her easy to root for. Ages 8-12. (Jan.)

"Villanueva's fun fantasy adventure takes us on a quest through the urban landscape of metropolitan Manila and includes details of street life in Silanganan: aromatic food vendors, high-speeding bucket trucks, and sari sari stores. Tagalog words and phrases are sprinkled throughout the book and add to the overall atmosphere and world building. There's plenty of humor in this story, and it also touches on epilepsy and adoption in mixed-race families (Chinese and Filipino)." — Booklist

"?A Manila tween learns of her magical powers in this duology opener steeped in Tagalog mythology... Readers will be completely immersed in the book's fantastical and culturally and historically rich world, which features inclusive representation; Lulu's bisexuality is naturally woven into her characterization. Villanueva deftly balances complex worldbuilding, plot twists, and moments of levity while touching on serious themes such as colonization. Rich in adventure, intrigue, and magical fun." — Kirkus Reviews

"A gem of a fantasy novel, vibrant with thrilling Tagalog mythology, laugh-out-loud humor, and the love of family and friends. Readers will cheer for Lulu as much as I do." — Elsie Chapman, author of The Scroll of Chaos

"Readers will fall in love with Lulu Sinagtala as she makes her way through the world of Tagalog gods and monsters while exploring the complexities of family, friendship, colonialism, and compassion. Sincerely protective, deeply determined, and supernaturally strong, Lulu is a hero for the ages." — Misa Sugiura, author of the Momo Arashima series

"In this page-turning, twisty middle grade fantasy rooted in Tagalog folklore, readers will be enthralled by Lulu's adventurous spirit and inspired by her love for her family and friends. A must-read for mythology fans everywhere!" — Katie Zhao, author of The Dragon Warrior and Winnie Zeng series

"Lulu Sinagtala and the City of Noble Warriors is a funny, fast-paced romp across Tagalog mythological worlds, packed with karaoke-singing creatures, epic Filipino heroes, and boy band-loving gods. Amid all the twists, turns, and treachery, Gail D. Villanueva masterfully weaves in a heartfelt exploration of family and identity: there is so much to love about Lulu!" — Tracy Badua, author of Freddie vs. the Family Curse