I received an advance copy via NetGalley.

This middle grade book follows 12-year-old Theo Tan and trickster fox spirit Kai. In a near-future San Francisco where magic works a lot like advanced tech, Theo is determined to be as American and not-Chinese as possible, which is in contrast to his idolized older brother Jamie. Kai is his brother’s companion spirit, and Theo’s rival for his brother’s affections. But when Jamie is killed in an accident, Theo and Kai must team up to discover what his brother’s job’s big top-secret cultural project is really about.

I wasn’t sure about this book at first but it really grew on me. The two perspectives are used well, as we can understand Theo’s point of view but through Kai’s eyes also understand Theo can be a real brat. I like that the book approached Chinese and Indian cultures from a different angle and brought a unique futuristic bent. The ending was action-packed and quite satisfying, and provides a direct lead into a sequel. ( )