Kingdom Riders

After the high king Khan Fitzen saved Autiria from a century of war, he founded the fatal Kingdom Race, a Hunger Games–esque competition meant to determine the realm’s next rulers. War-orphaned animal whisperer Kayla cares less about political authority and more about freeing herself and her best friend Mal from their credit debt. Thus compelled, Kayla claims victory at a regional qualifying race atop her large, golden-eyed mud toad Grok and advances to the next leg—a team-up match. Enigmatic sponsor Tig and his attendant mage offer Kayla a place on Team Autiria, a trio of young, motivated riders. Unbeknownst to them, Tig has purposefully assembled this team, hoping that, should they win, they’ll shift the kingdom’s brutal customs toward compassion. As Kayla faces off against new dangers from fellow riders, she must trust her sharp instincts, honorable heart, and new teammates if she wants to survive—and come out victorious. Denton (Monster Born) and To (Marvel’s Voices) balance bracing action sequences with quieter world- and character-building moments that showcase unique fantasy creatures, intriguing political machinations, and an eclectic human and alien population rendered in various skin tones, some fanciful. Ages 9–12. (May)