Overview
The second book in an action-packed middle grade fantasy duology by Gail D. Villanueva, steeped in Tagalog mythology and perfect for fans of Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky. Lulu should never have let Maligno get away. Corrupt souls are escaping the Underworld in droves, unrest is plaguing the Middleworld, and factions are pitting gods in the Upperworld against each other. Nothing Lulu, Bart, and Kitty can't handle, right? Then Lulu finds outs that the Maligno intends to awaken the king of destruction, the primordial serpent god Ulilang Kaluluwa, in order to control the god's power with the Sacred Niyog of legend--a powerful and ancient magical artifact that has been broken in three and kept hidden by the Salamangkeros of the past. But the Maligno isn't the only one in search of the niyog. Bathala, the god of gods, wants to use it to vanguish Ulilang Kaluluwa once and for all in a battle that would destroy the universe. To protect all three Realms, Lulu, Bart, and Kitty set off on a secret mission to find the three parts of the niyog before their enemies. But will they be able to keep the universe from falling into total chaos before it's ripped apart?
Full Product Details
Author: Gail D Villanueva
Publisher: Bound to Stay Bound Books
Imprint: Bound to Stay Bound Books
Volume: 2
ISBN: 9798855179491
Pages: 341
Publication Date: 07 October 2025
Recommended Age: From 8 to 12 years
Audience:
Children/juvenile
,
Children / Juvenile
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active
Availability: In Print
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Reviews
""The first in what is sure to be a hit series full of magic, mythical beings, and an endearing cast of characters... Villanueva is a spectacular worldbuilder and does a remarkable job of depicting Tagalog mythology and Filipino history that is riveting, and also accessible to readers with no background in either. A solid magical thriller that will leave readers anxiously awaiting Lulu's next adventure"". - School Library Journal (starred review) ""Villanueva seamlessly and naturally incorporates Tagalog folklore and vocabulary into the story along with Lulu's epilepsy, which she matter-of-factly describes as neither a weakness nor a strength but ""just part of who I am."" Humor and references to K-pop and P-pop help offset the existential threat. This easy-to-follow entry, which is accessible to new series readers thanks to succinct recaps, contains plenty of intrigue and hints of romance. An entertaining, immersive, and twisty adventure."" - Kirkus Reviews
Author Information
Gail D. Villanueva is a Filipino writer, illustrator, and web designer based in the Philippines. Some of her critically acclaimed books have earned a bunch of awards and recognitions. Gail was born in Manila but was raised in Quezon City. She and her husband currently live in Rizal with their many pets and the random creatures they befriend in the backyard. When she's not working, Gail plays pickleball and trains as a search and rescue K-9 handler with her super smart dog. Learn more at www.gaildvillanueva.com.
