We Have to Try

Aisha Saeed returns with a fantastic second book, with even more adventures for Diana. Saeed does reiterate the previous book for those who need a refresher, though it really doesn’t cover how great the first book is. This book picks up a week after the first, with Diana saying goodbye to her dear friend Sakina as she leaves for home. When Sakina, and her new friend Imani, are kidnapped by mysterious cloaked figures. Diana must find out who is stealing kids and why, before they kidnap her too. Along the way Diana finds out that she is not just a kid, but a courageous hero. Is the Greek mythology adventure a bit mainstream now? Yes, probably, but a young girl on an adventure succeeding against impossible odds is still amazing to read. Especially with such a large cast of strong female characters, including a new baby dragon friend.

I appreciate that Diana is not entirely cool and collected after the ordeal in the previous book. Diana has to battle her fears in order to save her family and friends. Fears of responsibility, failure, loss, inadequacy, monsters, and unknown places. Including the dark voices in her own head. While finding that adults and authority figures do not always listen or have answers. The gods and goddesses are pretty terrible, but there are moments she learns to find empathy and compassion for difficulty people in difficult situations. Even though it is often easier for her to connect with animals. Diana is still impetuous and impatient as ever, but her determination is her best quality. She never gives up even when her adventure seems impossible to overcome. This is definitely an encouraging read, showing that even when things look impossible it is important to just try. ( )