First published 1998
Number Ten Ox, a young peasant with tremendous strength but little wit, teams up with Master Li Kao, an elderly sage with a slight flaw in his character. Together they navigate the treacherous world of ancient China, where gods walk among mortals and magic flows through everyday life. When a mysterious plague strikes Ox's village, the unlikely pair must venture into a realm where emperors command divine powers and ancient curses threaten entire kingdoms. Their quest leads them through three interconnected adventures that blend mythology with detective work. Master Li's cunning mind and Ox's loyal heart prove that wisdom and strength together can overcome forces that would destroy lesser men. The bond between the scholar and the peasant becomes their greatest weapon against enemies both human and supernatural.
Genres: mythology, historical-fiction, adventure, fantasy
Vibes: suspenseful, thought-provoking, whimsical
Tropes: found-family, unlikely-allies
Setting: China
Period: Ancient
652 pages · Hardcover · The Stars Our Destination Books