Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor
Xiran Jay Zhao
📚 Genre
Middle Grade Fantasy / Mythology
🏢 Publisher
Margaret K. McElderry Books (Simon & Schuster)
📅 Publication Year
2022
🔢 ISBN
978-1665900706 (Trade Hardcover equivalent)
About This Book
A contemporary middle-grade fantasy inspired by Chinese history and mythology. The story follows Zachary Ying, a Chinese-American boy who discovers he is the host for the spirit of the First Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. He must travel across China to seal a portal to the underworld. The cover features vibrant blue and gold typography with an illustration of Zachary and the spectral Dragon Emperor against a background of stylized clouds and a dragon.
Book Details
Language
English
Pages
352 pages (standard edition)
Edition
Advance Reader's Copy (ARC) / Uncorrected Proof
Series
Zachary Ying, Book 1
Target Audience
Middle Grade (Ages 8-12)
Collector Information
Condition
Good to Very Good; visible shelf wear along the edges and some minor creasing on the spine typical of softcover ARCs.
Estimated Value
$10-$30
Rarity
Uncommon; as an Advance Reader's Copy, it was produced in a limited quantity prior to the official release for reviewers and booksellers, though it is not a 'rare' antique.
Historical Significance
A New York Times Bestseller. Significant for its representation of Chinese-American identity and the integration of authentic Chinese history and gaming culture into modern children's literature.
Collector Notes
ARCs are collected by fans of specific authors or series, but generally hold less value than a signed first-edition hardcover. Collectors should note that because these are 'Uncorrected Proofs,' they may contain typos or draft text not present in the final published version. Avoid significant sunlight to prevent fading of the blue cover inks.
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Notable Features
Includes prominent yellow 'Advance Reader's Copy Not for Sale or Quotation' badge on the front cover. Features cover art by Velinxi.