Best friends turned rivals compete to become the top lion dancer in their team.Ever since his father's unexpected passing, middle schooler Wei has struggled to feel like he belongs. After a chance encounter leads to his joining a Chinese lion dance team, he finds a renewed love for the sport that he once enjoyed with his dad, whose team won an international championship. There's just one problem-Wei's former best friend, Hung, is also on the team, and he's determined to push Wei out. With Lunar New Year performances approaching, Wei and Hung must give it their all to prove that they're worthy of joining the competition team. But lion dance is a team sport: Can they settle their differences and make things work? Despite Wei and Hung's rivalry being a large focus of the story, their relationship isn't sufficiently developed, resulting in what feels like an abrupt conclusion. Where this graphic novel truly shines, however, is in its lively and dynamic depictions of lion dancing and the admirable courage, strength, and teamwork involved in its performance. Tse deftly integrates technical information about lion dancing into the story, making it accessible even for those who are new to the sport. The author's enthusiasm thrums through each page and is simply infectious. Wei is cued as being of Chinese descent; the supporting cast is multiethnic.A passionate and visually enticing love letter to the art of lion dancing. (creator's note) (Graphic fiction. 8-12)

Gr 4–6— With the "hei si," which is often the first movement in the titular dance, the lion wakes for this coming-of-age graphic novel. Wei always wanted to follow in the footsteps of his late father, who was a lion dance champion. By chance, he joins the Southern Phoenix Lion Dance Team to take up the head once again. But his past misfortune and continuing grievance with one-time friend Hung make it difficult for this middle schooler. With faith and training from his teammates, Wei gains the skill needed to perform during the Lunar New Year festivities around the city. Tse, a performer herself, passes on her passion and knowledge of this traditional Chinese dance. She highlights the teamwork and the dancers' required physical strength using dynamic movements, close-ups in the lions, and pans to the other characters. Tse also uses the chapter breaks to summarize the dance steps and highlight their cultural significance. The core of the plot comes from Wei's growth, and as he faces his interpersonal problems, he begins to trust his teammates more. While this leaves readers with a good message, key beats aren't given enough space to truly depict how to handle betrayal, bullying, and grief. The story ends on a cliff-hanger; perhaps a sequel will provide welcome resolution. VERDICT This graphic novel leaps onto the stage as a great option for those who enjoy team sports manga.— Rachel Forbes