THE HERO TWINS IN THE REALM OF FRIGHT

Hunahpu and Xbalanke, the rambunctious young demigods of corn, journey to the Underworld to save their father and uncle while restoring balance between realms.

Picking up after the events of The Hero Twins and the Magic of Song (2024), Bowles and Bowles’ latest ups the fun to mythic proportions. After playing a ball game so loud that it can be heard in Xibalba (the Underworld), Hunahpu and Xbalanke receive an invitation from the King and Queen of Death to play against the dark lords. Prepped by their Underworld mother, Lady Blood, the demigods descend into the Realm of Fright. The brothers must contend with the dark nobles and all their tricks, tests, and torments, overcoming all trials until the demigods of corn sacrifice themselves “to wield the ultimate power of renewal.” Shortly thereafter, whispers concerning a boisterous pair of clowns travel across the lands of Xibalba, eliciting a summons from the King and Queen of Death for a realm-altering performance. Volume 3 of David Bowles’ series delivers on the whimsical promise of its immediate predecessor, charting an epic battle of wits and feats in the Maya underworld. A consistent source of cool charm, Charlene Bowles’ energetic, strong-lined artwork accentuates the enchanting characters once more.

Utterly triumphant.