Do you love imaginative stories with noble characters? Jack Zulu and the Waylander’s Key, by S. D. and J. C. Smith, brings all this to the table and more!

Jack Zulu feels trapped in his hometown of Myrtle, West Virginia. His mother is sick and dying in the town’s hospital, his daily life feels devoid of adventure, and he longs for some way to escape.

Take that back: His daily life is devoid of adventure except for Mr. Wheeler, an old groundskeeper and bookstore owner he knows. Mr. Wheeler sometimes disappears for long lengths of time, and his rundown bookstore would be unvisited if not for Jack. When Mr. Wheeler tasks Jack with guarding a wooden box, Jack’s life takes an unexpected turn that will lead to greater adventure and temptations that he could imagine.

Jack Zulu is a fun and engaging book that I enjoyed! I appreciated the development of the settings in this story, along with how the authors wrote the villain. The characters were developed and distinct, and I love how they interacted with each other. (Get ready for some awesome humor and loyalty in Jack’s friend group!) I recommend Jack Zulu for fans of middle grade fantasy who love new fantasy worlds, loyal friend groups, and homegrown tales of adventure and courage!

Purchase Jack Zulu here, or visit the book’s website!