In The Sunbearer Trials, Aiden Thomas doesn’t hesitate with the world building and mythology of the book. The first two chapters introduces us to Teo, the trans Son of Quetzal, Diosa of Birds. Teo is charming, funny, and saves a damsel in distress. After rescuing her doll from a fire, one little girl said he’s her hero. Hopefully with entrance to the Sunbearer Trials, he will prove his worth, have some adventures and eat that junk food in his backpack. Aiden Thomas creates Reino del So, where each tour stop comes to life with vivid descriptions and details of the clothing, food, traditions and habitat. I had to stop to eat after reading about the delicious foods that were served to the participants of the trials. I laughed at several turns of phrases and sentences that I’ll let you discover on your own. I loved that homophobia and transphobia doesn’t exist in this world. Tears came to my eyes upon reading that Teo’s wings finally became the brilliant colors of a proper male quetzal. There is a Talk between Teo and Xio about being trans, gender stuff and body dysmorphia that is really important. I haven’t even talked about the trials, which are thrilling and adventurous. You’ll be rooting for Teo, Niya and Xio in due time. Feeling some way about Aurelio. Group bonding and competitive with Dezi, Ocelo, Marino, Auristela, Xochi, and Atzi. I’m excited to find out what Aiden Thomas has in store for us in book two of The Sunbearer Trials. Thanks to Bookish First and Feiwel & Friends/Macmillan USA/ MacKidsBooks for the ARC.