"The Last Fallen Star" by Graci Kim

The Last Fallen Star (May 4, 2021) by Graci Kim.

*This is the first novel in a trilogy by a debut author.*

An important time is coming to the Oh family. Riley will soon watch a rite of passage as her older sister, Hattie, is initiated into the Gom clan. For them, Korean mythology isn’t folklore; it’s real life. The Gom are the Healers, one of six Gifted Clans in the Mortalrealm (a.k.a. Earth). Riley wants so badly to be a healer when she turns 13, earning her Gi bracelet so she can cast spells without adult supervision, but she’s a saram (someone not gifted with magic). She is adopted and has no recollection of her birth parents. Then her brave, enthusiastic sister comes up with the idea of casting a spell at her initiation ceremony that will allow her to share half her magic with Riley. It’s temporary, but it’s something. Unfortunately, the plan doesn’t unfold as perfectly as it should, and Riley learns something shocking about herself, something that would have gotten her banished and seen as cursed even as a baby. Hattie hatches another idea and convinces Riley of its practicality. Riley’s best friend, Emmett Harrison (also saram and a masterful baker), comes, too, as does Boris, the “dragon-on-wheels” (the latter courtesy of Noah Noh, who’s totally crushing on Hattie). Hattie’s new idea ends badly, as this next attempt violates the laws of the Godrealm, and now Hattie’s life is fading. To save her, Riley must accomplish the impossible by finding the last fallen star. But what exactly is it? And where is it hiding?

            Did I read this story because I love mythological fantasy adventures? Yes. Did I want to read this story because it showcases Korean mythology, and I identify as both Korean and American? Also yes. Does the story have a very helpful Glossary in the back for anyone unfamiliar with the Korean terms and how to pronounce them? You betcha (and I do love me a well-informed Glossary). Graci Kim’s writing prowess is on full display with this story, which features relatable characters, time-is-of-the-essence adventure, magic and, yes, emotion. Watching Riley grow in the story toward her own self-acceptance and the struggle and emotion that goes along with it is empowering to read, but the story is also tempered with wit, Korean culture staples (like H-Mart and tteokbokki) and Korean mythological creatures (e.g. inmyeonjo, dokkaebi and cheollima). Oh, and one can never forget references to K-pop. According to the author, “All but one of the BTS members are Gumiho. You heard it here first.”

            I can only speak for myself, but I appreciate when the main characters (and even the supporting ones we get to know well) have flaws and struggles. After all, we do as children and adults. To struggle with your identity only adds to how mentally and emotionally wrought that can make any person, no matter the age. The plot is engaging, the mythology is modern, the adventure is rollicking and the potential for calamity calamitous. It is a thrill ride of snappy humor with heartfelt moments not to be forgotten (go “leaky-bladder eyeballs”). For those of you living in gifted homes, please do remember to compliment your house-sins (because no one wants the toilet-sin to make your bathroom breaks uncomfortable).