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Ring of Solomon #1
Ring of Solomon
This exciting and adventurous start to a middle-grade trilogy follows a queer boy and his family as they try to halt the chaotic effects of a mysterious ring, drawing upon Jewish mythology to navigate magic, mayhem and the search for pride in one’s identity.
The little beachside town of San Pancras is not known for anything exciting, but when Zach Darlington buys a mysterious ring at the local flea market, his quiet little hometown is turned topsy-turvy by monsters straight from Jewish folklore and a nefarious secret society focused on upholding an apocalyptic prophecy.
Zach discovers that the ring grants him strange powers, and he’s intrigued; maybe he can use the ring’s strengths to halt the slew of anti-Semitic and homophobic bullying he’s experiencing at school. But soon the ring brings unexpected visitors—Ashmedai, King of Demons, in the guise of a preteen boy named Ash, and the local chapter of the Knights of the Apocalypse, a secret society intent on completing a creepy prophecy that will bring three monsters to Earth to start the events of the end of times.
Now responsible for the ring and its consequences, will Zach and his friends, with the help of Ash, be able to stop the Apocalypse and save the world?
The little beachside town of San Pancras is not known for anything exciting, but when Zach Darlington buys a mysterious ring at the local flea market, his quiet little hometown is turned topsy-turvy by monsters straight from Jewish folklore and a nefarious secret society focused on upholding an apocalyptic prophecy.
Zach discovers that the ring grants him strange powers, and he’s intrigued; maybe he can use the ring’s strengths to halt the slew of anti-Semitic and homophobic bullying he’s experiencing at school. But soon the ring brings unexpected visitors—Ashmedai, King of Demons, in the guise of a preteen boy named Ash, and the local chapter of the Knights of the Apocalypse, a secret society intent on completing a creepy prophecy that will bring three monsters to Earth to start the events of the end of times.
Now responsible for the ring and its consequences, will Zach and his friends, with the help of Ash, be able to stop the Apocalypse and save the world?
256 pages, Hardcover
First published February 21, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
March 8, 2023
Zach and his younger sister are trying to find a present for their mom’s birthday. They buy her a gaudy and mysterious ring at a flea market, but Zach discovers it has magical powers and keeps it for himself. While he plans to use the ring to get back at his bullies, he soon realizes that there’s much more at stake. Monsters from Jewish folklore are awakening, and a secret society may be trying to end the world. Can Zach find the courage to stand up for himself and save the world?
This was a wonderful Middle Grade read! The characters were well written with unique and relatable voices as well as being well developed. Zach was a likeable protagonist who was struggling with bullying and intersections of his identity. I quite enjoyed how his relationship with his little sister was portrayed as well as his friendships. I thought the evolution of his crush on a classmate was wonderfully done and added something extra special to this read.
Another focus of this work was on Jewish culture and folklore. The author wonderfully incorporated history and folklore into this story in a way that was approachable and interesting. It never took the center stage, but added to Zach’s struggle with his identity, specifically relating to his “Jewishness.” While the plot itself wasn’t the most unique, it was executed exceedingly well. The only slight dislike I had was related to the action scenes – they were long and a little tedious to read, and there were quite a few of them.
I can’t recommend this work enough for Middle Grade readers and older readers alike! It’s fast paced and engaging, and I hope the author writes more works like this. Many thanks to NetGalley and Inkyard Press for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This was a wonderful Middle Grade read! The characters were well written with unique and relatable voices as well as being well developed. Zach was a likeable protagonist who was struggling with bullying and intersections of his identity. I quite enjoyed how his relationship with his little sister was portrayed as well as his friendships. I thought the evolution of his crush on a classmate was wonderfully done and added something extra special to this read.
Another focus of this work was on Jewish culture and folklore. The author wonderfully incorporated history and folklore into this story in a way that was approachable and interesting. It never took the center stage, but added to Zach’s struggle with his identity, specifically relating to his “Jewishness.” While the plot itself wasn’t the most unique, it was executed exceedingly well. The only slight dislike I had was related to the action scenes – they were long and a little tedious to read, and there were quite a few of them.
I can’t recommend this work enough for Middle Grade readers and older readers alike! It’s fast paced and engaging, and I hope the author writes more works like this. Many thanks to NetGalley and Inkyard Press for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
March 13, 2023
Ring of Solomon was a fun, quick, and action-packed middle grade novel that I flew through in a matter of hours. This story, which is based off Jewish mythology, follows a young queer boy, his best friend, and their newfound ally, who is key to saving the world.
I really enjoyed the Jewish mythology aspect to this story. I’ve only read one other book that features Jewish folklore this way, and it was also a middle grade. I love that younger kids are getting all kinds of representation these days. It’s so important and so desperately needed. Reading about Zach’s adventure was so much fun, and I learned a lot that I didn’t know about the mythology before, which was really cool.
The book features an adventure plot that almost feels like it could be a quest story. For those who enjoy the books in the Rick Riordan presents series, this one will be a hit, especially if you’re looking for something a little shorter. When Zach and his sister accidentally stumble across a magical ring, he has no idea what he’s in for, but he rises to the challenge with agility and determination.
Even though the book is short, the characters all stand out, and their relationships are developed well. I particularly enjoyed the dynamic between Zach, Sandra, and Ash, the prickly and a little confused demon king. Ash was my favorite, and he had me chuckling a few times at his bewilderment surrounding the human world, but also his awe and curiosity. He might have been thousands of years old, but he fit right in with Zach and Sandra.
Ring of Solomon also includes discussions of identity and bullying. Zach is a queer kid with a crush on another boy in his class but is struggling to articulate his feelings. Additionally, he’s being bullied by other students, which is making it more difficult to find the courage to express how he feels. Zach grows as a character and in his identity throughout the story, and it was something I particularly enjoyed seeing, especially in a middle grade book where topics like these are so important.
My only critique is that I wish it had been just a little bit longer, so we could’ve gotten even more lore and action, but if you’re looking for a quick and fast-paced read, then this book will be perfect for you.
Overall, I enjoyed Ring of Solomon and I’m glad I read it!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I really enjoyed the Jewish mythology aspect to this story. I’ve only read one other book that features Jewish folklore this way, and it was also a middle grade. I love that younger kids are getting all kinds of representation these days. It’s so important and so desperately needed. Reading about Zach’s adventure was so much fun, and I learned a lot that I didn’t know about the mythology before, which was really cool.
The book features an adventure plot that almost feels like it could be a quest story. For those who enjoy the books in the Rick Riordan presents series, this one will be a hit, especially if you’re looking for something a little shorter. When Zach and his sister accidentally stumble across a magical ring, he has no idea what he’s in for, but he rises to the challenge with agility and determination.
Even though the book is short, the characters all stand out, and their relationships are developed well. I particularly enjoyed the dynamic between Zach, Sandra, and Ash, the prickly and a little confused demon king. Ash was my favorite, and he had me chuckling a few times at his bewilderment surrounding the human world, but also his awe and curiosity. He might have been thousands of years old, but he fit right in with Zach and Sandra.
Ring of Solomon also includes discussions of identity and bullying. Zach is a queer kid with a crush on another boy in his class but is struggling to articulate his feelings. Additionally, he’s being bullied by other students, which is making it more difficult to find the courage to express how he feels. Zach grows as a character and in his identity throughout the story, and it was something I particularly enjoyed seeing, especially in a middle grade book where topics like these are so important.
My only critique is that I wish it had been just a little bit longer, so we could’ve gotten even more lore and action, but if you’re looking for a quick and fast-paced read, then this book will be perfect for you.
Overall, I enjoyed Ring of Solomon and I’m glad I read it!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 30, 2023
I was really excited to get an early copy of this middle grade Jewish fantasy. When I realized the protagonist was also queer I was even more excited. Of all the genres I read I feel like fantasy gets the least diverse representation which is unfortunate. I loved that his story gave me a little bit of information about Jewish mythology, a topic I don’t know much about. Zach and his little sister are a flea market when she spots an old Jewish ring that Zach reluctantly spends 20 dollars on for his mother’s birthday. But that ring leads him on a journey he could never have predicted. I do think there is a little suspension of belief needed for this book, but it’s a fantasy story and I feel like that goes with the territory. I did wish the story had been a little longer so the characters could have more fully developed just a little bit. Overall though this was a fun and engaging story. I wouldn’t mind seeing more set in this world for sure.
September 22, 2023
queer PJO fans: READ THIS!!!! rtc :)
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January 16, 2023LOL EDIT TY TO THE PUBLISHER FOR SENDING ME A COPY (that was sent to me before the strike//i will not be reviewing until the hcp union's VERY reasonable requests have been met. solidarity forever!!) Just letting the publisher and author (hi Aden) know that I would fight someone for an ARC of this and truly cannot wait
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February 28, 2023Thank you to the publisher for sending me an ARC of this book!
An incredibly fun and adventurous middle-grade novel that I would easily pitch as a queer Jewish Percy Jackson. This is most definitely a book I wish I could've had when I was a kid. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a diverse middle-grade pick.
It did feel a bit rushed at times, and I think it would've been far more fun for the plot of this book to be stretched out over 3-5 books detailed with more adventures and more folkloric flashbacks. All the elements were there, but felt a little crammed in. There was just soooo much goodness that deserved to be narratively milked.
CW: bullying, antisemitism, racism, violence, blood, fire, emesis, drowning, kidnapping
An incredibly fun and adventurous middle-grade novel that I would easily pitch as a queer Jewish Percy Jackson. This is most definitely a book I wish I could've had when I was a kid. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a diverse middle-grade pick.
It did feel a bit rushed at times, and I think it would've been far more fun for the plot of this book to be stretched out over 3-5 books detailed with more adventures and more folkloric flashbacks. All the elements were there, but felt a little crammed in. There was just soooo much goodness that deserved to be narratively milked.
CW: bullying, antisemitism, racism, violence, blood, fire, emesis, drowning, kidnapping
September 10, 2023
CW: bullying, antisemitism, vomit, kidnapping, (mentioned) dieting/calorie restricting
5 stars*
SCREAMING CRYING THROWING UP THIS BOOK HAS SOLVED ALL OF MY LIFE PROBLEMS.
This is the book I have waited my entire 27 years to read. This is the book I have dreamed of for my entire life.
I also needed to share the best quote I've ever found - I was reading the Wikipedia on Ashmodai to make sure my synagogue review is accurate and this is what it says about Ashmodai and Kabbalah: "[Ashmodai] is still able to inflict pain and destruction, but only on Mondays."
I love being Jewish 😂
*except for a serious printing error. On page 137 the characters go into Zach's mother's Judaica cabinet and pull out a Challah knife. Engraved on the blade is "Shabbat Kadosh/שבת קודש" (holy Shabbat). However, there is a serious publication error where the Hebrew (which is read right to left as opposed to English's left to right) is printed backwards - the letters are in the opposite order they would be read, following the English left to right system, resulting in nonsense words.
I would consider this a very serious issue that should have been caught by the publishing team or by an ARC reader. This is why you need to include people of the culture in your creation process. If I had been one of the insanely lucky people to receive an ARC, that would literally have been my only major comment.
The following is the review I wrote for my synagogue newsletter:
When Zach buys a ring for his mother's birthday at a flea market, he never expected to find the ACTUAL ring of King Solomon. With the help of his friend Sandra and the interference of his younger sister Naomi, Zach must battle antisemitism, bullying, and the forces of evil to protect his new friend, a sheyd (or spirit) from Jewish folklore that came with the ring - who happens to be Ashmodai, King of Demons.
Ring of Solomon is the book I spent my entire childhood searching for. This is the Percy Jackson of Jewish tween books. Adventurous and funny, this story touches on aspects of less frequently discussed elements of Jewish mythology and folklore, as well as serious moments of antisemitic bullying in schools and the feeling of feeling "not Jewish enough" while growing up in a secular environment.
5 stars*
SCREAMING CRYING THROWING UP THIS BOOK HAS SOLVED ALL OF MY LIFE PROBLEMS.
This is the book I have waited my entire 27 years to read. This is the book I have dreamed of for my entire life.
I also needed to share the best quote I've ever found - I was reading the Wikipedia on Ashmodai to make sure my synagogue review is accurate and this is what it says about Ashmodai and Kabbalah: "[Ashmodai] is still able to inflict pain and destruction, but only on Mondays."
I love being Jewish 😂
*except for a serious printing error. On page 137 the characters go into Zach's mother's Judaica cabinet and pull out a Challah knife. Engraved on the blade is "Shabbat Kadosh/שבת קודש" (holy Shabbat). However, there is a serious publication error where the Hebrew (which is read right to left as opposed to English's left to right) is printed backwards - the letters are in the opposite order they would be read, following the English left to right system, resulting in nonsense words.
I would consider this a very serious issue that should have been caught by the publishing team or by an ARC reader. This is why you need to include people of the culture in your creation process. If I had been one of the insanely lucky people to receive an ARC, that would literally have been my only major comment.
The following is the review I wrote for my synagogue newsletter:
When Zach buys a ring for his mother's birthday at a flea market, he never expected to find the ACTUAL ring of King Solomon. With the help of his friend Sandra and the interference of his younger sister Naomi, Zach must battle antisemitism, bullying, and the forces of evil to protect his new friend, a sheyd (or spirit) from Jewish folklore that came with the ring - who happens to be Ashmodai, King of Demons.
Ring of Solomon is the book I spent my entire childhood searching for. This is the Percy Jackson of Jewish tween books. Adventurous and funny, this story touches on aspects of less frequently discussed elements of Jewish mythology and folklore, as well as serious moments of antisemitic bullying in schools and the feeling of feeling "not Jewish enough" while growing up in a secular environment.
November 10, 2022
Debated on giving this a 3 star rating but man this book didn't deliver. The best way I could describe it is that it reads like an adapted novelization of a movie based on a better book. The bones of a really good middle grade adventure are there, but it's too short for its own good so the characters have no time to actually develop and be characters, let alone friends. The fact that 2 tweens and an immortal being managed to defeat 3 large monsters in less than a week is kind of ludicrous. Feels like this book could use a couple more rounds of edits to pad it out but this is InkYard Press so I'm not sure where their standards are at this point.
January 12, 2023
Percy Jackson fans, especially Jewish and/or queer Percy Jackson fans: check this one out.
This could have benefited from being a bit longer, but it was still a pretty solid story with some great moments. I don't know where the series is going from here, but I'm looking forward to finding out!
CW: bullying, antisemitism, injuries
This could have benefited from being a bit longer, but it was still a pretty solid story with some great moments. I don't know where the series is going from here, but I'm looking forward to finding out!
CW: bullying, antisemitism, injuries
February 27, 2023
Won finished hardcover from BookishFirst.com!
Aside from a typo or two and an inconsistency or two in the finished copy, this was a thoroughly enjoyable middle grade Jewish mythological retelling. I thought Zach, Sandra, and Ash made a good team but yikes, what these twelve-year-olds (and an ancient demon) got up to!!! Surprisingly intense and violent! I know nothing of Jewish mythology so it was cool to learn a little bit about it and then turn it on its head! I have never read anything by Aden Polydoros before, had never even heard of him before reading the excerpt for this on BookishFirst. I thought the cover did well at showing the contents of the book, making it look very thrilling and for any tween, it definitely is! Any tween kid could read this and feel comfortable in it. This definitely felt like the start of a series to me...! For fans of Rick Riordan for sure and I'll bet you learn something new along the way!
Aside from a typo or two and an inconsistency or two in the finished copy, this was a thoroughly enjoyable middle grade Jewish mythological retelling. I thought Zach, Sandra, and Ash made a good team but yikes, what these twelve-year-olds (and an ancient demon) got up to!!! Surprisingly intense and violent! I know nothing of Jewish mythology so it was cool to learn a little bit about it and then turn it on its head! I have never read anything by Aden Polydoros before, had never even heard of him before reading the excerpt for this on BookishFirst. I thought the cover did well at showing the contents of the book, making it look very thrilling and for any tween, it definitely is! Any tween kid could read this and feel comfortable in it. This definitely felt like the start of a series to me...! For fans of Rick Riordan for sure and I'll bet you learn something new along the way!
March 3, 2023
This is a fun little young adult story where a gay Jewish pre-teen acquires the Seal of Solomon and defeats monsters with the help of the demon king Ashmedai (in disguise). I've loved a lot of Aden Polydoros's other work, and I think that this'll be a great read for young readers, especially gay and/or Jewish kids! Unfortunately, for me personally, the narrative style was grating, and I found things moved fast and with a sort of handwavey acceptance of everything going on (which might just be different age expectations here). A really great thing for kids to have, but not for me personally.
Thank you to NetGalley and Inkyard Press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to NetGalley and Inkyard Press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
February 27, 2023
3.5 rounded up
This was a fun middle grade book! The story was billed to me as queer Percy Jackson. I think it came within the realm of that! It had great gay and Jewish representation!
This was a fun middle grade book! The story was billed to me as queer Percy Jackson. I think it came within the realm of that! It had great gay and Jewish representation!
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March 1, 2024Young Adult Action & Adventure, LGBTQ+, Young Adult Monsters, Young Adult Religious
Miniseries
Ring of Solomon (Book #1)
Miniseries
Ring of Solomon (Book #1)
January 15, 2023
3.5 ish. This is on the higher end of a 3 star rating! I enjoyed this middle grade Jewish inspired fantasy. It was really interesting to learn more about Jewish culture in this! I would definitely recommend this book to younger readers and I feel that this book would definitely be a gift to young Jewish readers! Personally I just felt like it was too fast paced to the point where the action scenes we’re getting jumbled together. Also felt like the blurb was misleading because it says a brother sister duo saving the world but his sister was barely included in the story. Overall this was an enjoyable read! I want to try this authors YA works like Bone Weaver next!
April 2, 2023
Zach’s discovery of the Ring of Solomon turns his boring town into one of life-or-death situations as the King of Demons is summoned by the ring. But his appearance is just the beginning of what seems to Zach as an end of the world apocalypse! The book is filled with action, almost from day one, quiet moments where you get to know the characters, flashbacks to get background on the mythology, and humor which makes the book so much fun to read.
Fans of Percy Jackson and other mythology-focused action/adventure books are going to want to grab this one!
Full review with teaching tools: https://www.unleashingreaders.com/26114
Fans of Percy Jackson and other mythology-focused action/adventure books are going to want to grab this one!
Full review with teaching tools: https://www.unleashingreaders.com/26114
October 20, 2022
I think my new favorite genre is Jewish middle grade fantasy where children accidentally befriend a demon/other magical creature. I am so pleased that there are so many Jewish fantasy books out now that I actually have a list to recommend people! I would have loved that as a kid.
The “Dear Reader” at the start was very touching and I loved it. And even in the fantasy setting, Polydoros sets up the very real feeling of “otherness” that comes from being Jewish or queer or Jewish AND queer. And the added helplessness of being part of a minority group while being harassed by school bullies and the way teachers just ignore it instead of taking a stand. I know the book is really more geared toward the fantasy and apocalypse plot but it does a great job paralleling to real world discrimination.
My only complaints were the kind of like “boy humor” jokes which were kind of gross but I know I’m not the target audience so it’s something I can forgive and then also the way the ending just seemed to kind of trail off. Open endings are fine but this seemed waaaay more broadly open ended.
Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!
The “Dear Reader” at the start was very touching and I loved it. And even in the fantasy setting, Polydoros sets up the very real feeling of “otherness” that comes from being Jewish or queer or Jewish AND queer. And the added helplessness of being part of a minority group while being harassed by school bullies and the way teachers just ignore it instead of taking a stand. I know the book is really more geared toward the fantasy and apocalypse plot but it does a great job paralleling to real world discrimination.
My only complaints were the kind of like “boy humor” jokes which were kind of gross but I know I’m not the target audience so it’s something I can forgive and then also the way the ending just seemed to kind of trail off. Open endings are fine but this seemed waaaay more broadly open ended.
Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!
July 24, 2022
I loved this book so so much. I enjoyed The City Beautiful by the author, but I did not expect to like this book so much. It’s been wonderful to see queer Jewish rep in books and get to learn new things. I’m so glad this is the beginning of a trilogy because I definitely want more of these characters and this world.
July 17, 2022
Thank you, Inkyard Press, for allowing me to read The Ring of Solomon early.
This story is just a glorious adventure. After reading The City Beautiful, I already knew that Aden Polydoros was a gifted writer, and with this middle-grade book, he proves it again. Loved, loved, loved the book!
This story is just a glorious adventure. After reading The City Beautiful, I already knew that Aden Polydoros was a gifted writer, and with this middle-grade book, he proves it again. Loved, loved, loved the book!
February 8, 2023
Thank you BookishFirst and Ink Yard Press for sending me a finished copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I was originally pulled into this book because the cover was giving me strong Percy Jackson vibes, and that's a pretty good indicator of what this story is like! Except, you know, Jewish mythology instead of Greek mythology. Opening this book gave me some of the same feelings I had when I read PJO for the first time, and if this does end up becoming a series, I feel like it could be important for the next generation of kids.
"I didn't asked to be wrapped up in this. First the literal king of demons, and now three gigantic beasts, and the antichrist. You've got to be kidding me."
I love a good book with mythology in it, yet I do not know much about Jewish mythology! I feel like I learned a little bit throughout the course of the 240-odd pages, and the author does a good job of explaining it without making it overly complicated or too biblical in the description. It was pretty easy for someone with little to no biblical experience to understand.....which is me. I know next to nothing about the bible (or different religions in general for that matter). The mythology also does not overtake the main portion of the story, instead, it just gives the main character some background to his history and allow himself to learn more about what his culture believes in.
This book does deal with some racism and bullying, evidenced through a single child that literally throws pennies at the main character, and I think the author tackled those topics well. The main character does finally stand up for himself at one point, and even though the "fight" was super exaggerated, the bully kind of backed off once the kid confronted him.
I enjoyed the action sequences, even though I was worried this book would be too short to tackle all three monsters. There was a bit of a twist at the end I did not see coming, but if you know a bit about Jewish mythology and figures, it probably would have been more noticeable from the start. I was definitely googling my way through this book to find out more information!
The side characters are well written, and I loved the humor from all of them. The humor is definitely at a middle grade level (see: "[boogers] are too precious for Jeffrey. He needs to save them for his after-school snacks."), and I will admit that I laughed out loud at a couple of the quips. This is just a group of kids you cannot help but love, and you root for them every step of the way.
Overall, this was a fun and engaging read that gave me some new insight on Jewish mythology while having some good action sequences and funny one-liners. I have no complaints about this book, I think it is all around a great read. This is a book I can definitely see being popular at the middle grade level, especially for fans of Percy Jackson. And if the author does every decide to write a sequel, well.....I would love to get my hands on it!
Content warnings: bullying, racism, kidnapping, blood, broken bones, violence
I was originally pulled into this book because the cover was giving me strong Percy Jackson vibes, and that's a pretty good indicator of what this story is like! Except, you know, Jewish mythology instead of Greek mythology. Opening this book gave me some of the same feelings I had when I read PJO for the first time, and if this does end up becoming a series, I feel like it could be important for the next generation of kids.
"I didn't asked to be wrapped up in this. First the literal king of demons, and now three gigantic beasts, and the antichrist. You've got to be kidding me."
I love a good book with mythology in it, yet I do not know much about Jewish mythology! I feel like I learned a little bit throughout the course of the 240-odd pages, and the author does a good job of explaining it without making it overly complicated or too biblical in the description. It was pretty easy for someone with little to no biblical experience to understand.....which is me. I know next to nothing about the bible (or different religions in general for that matter). The mythology also does not overtake the main portion of the story, instead, it just gives the main character some background to his history and allow himself to learn more about what his culture believes in.
This book does deal with some racism and bullying, evidenced through a single child that literally throws pennies at the main character, and I think the author tackled those topics well. The main character does finally stand up for himself at one point, and even though the "fight" was super exaggerated, the bully kind of backed off once the kid confronted him.
I enjoyed the action sequences, even though I was worried this book would be too short to tackle all three monsters. There was a bit of a twist at the end I did not see coming, but if you know a bit about Jewish mythology and figures, it probably would have been more noticeable from the start. I was definitely googling my way through this book to find out more information!
The side characters are well written, and I loved the humor from all of them. The humor is definitely at a middle grade level (see: "[boogers] are too precious for Jeffrey. He needs to save them for his after-school snacks."), and I will admit that I laughed out loud at a couple of the quips. This is just a group of kids you cannot help but love, and you root for them every step of the way.
Overall, this was a fun and engaging read that gave me some new insight on Jewish mythology while having some good action sequences and funny one-liners. I have no complaints about this book, I think it is all around a great read. This is a book I can definitely see being popular at the middle grade level, especially for fans of Percy Jackson. And if the author does every decide to write a sequel, well.....I would love to get my hands on it!
Content warnings: bullying, racism, kidnapping, blood, broken bones, violence
February 24, 2023
I think I’ve read everything Aden Polydoros has written (I also have an ARC of his next release – woohoo!), and when he decided to play in the middle grade sandbox, I was excited to see what he came up with.
In the author’s note before the story begins, he mentions that he comes from an interfaith family and discovered his love of horror movies at a young age. Other than a few passing references in a popular MG series, he never came across books with Jewish main characters and struggled to see himself in stories. A few of his novels contain queer Jewish main characters, and it’s wonderful to see that representation available to YA and MG readers today.
The book begins with Zach and his younger sister buying a mysterious ring for their mother’s birthday at a flea market. Little does he know the adventure that awaits him because of that simple transaction. First, he can hear animals talk and converse with them – which is pretty cool. Then the King of Demons (who discovers a strong passion for pizza) appears in Zach’s bedroom, and soon he’s in over his head dealing with a nutty kind of cult and three monsters predicted to start the end times.
Knowing little to nothing about Jewish mythology, I enjoyed learning more about it, and it’s one of my favorite things about this book. The author does a wonderful job of portraying tweens – their interactions, the bottomless stomachs of tween boys (which gave me several laughs), and relationships with their parents and siblings. Zach is also the target of bullying by one student in particular in his class, which sadly is still a reality in our schools, and it’s handled well in the story.
Ring of Solomon is full of action with plenty of humor, and several reviewers have recommended it to fans of Percy Jackson. I was delighted to learn this will be a trilogy, and I’m excited to spend more time with these characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
In the author’s note before the story begins, he mentions that he comes from an interfaith family and discovered his love of horror movies at a young age. Other than a few passing references in a popular MG series, he never came across books with Jewish main characters and struggled to see himself in stories. A few of his novels contain queer Jewish main characters, and it’s wonderful to see that representation available to YA and MG readers today.
The book begins with Zach and his younger sister buying a mysterious ring for their mother’s birthday at a flea market. Little does he know the adventure that awaits him because of that simple transaction. First, he can hear animals talk and converse with them – which is pretty cool. Then the King of Demons (who discovers a strong passion for pizza) appears in Zach’s bedroom, and soon he’s in over his head dealing with a nutty kind of cult and three monsters predicted to start the end times.
Knowing little to nothing about Jewish mythology, I enjoyed learning more about it, and it’s one of my favorite things about this book. The author does a wonderful job of portraying tweens – their interactions, the bottomless stomachs of tween boys (which gave me several laughs), and relationships with their parents and siblings. Zach is also the target of bullying by one student in particular in his class, which sadly is still a reality in our schools, and it’s handled well in the story.
Ring of Solomon is full of action with plenty of humor, and several reviewers have recommended it to fans of Percy Jackson. I was delighted to learn this will be a trilogy, and I’m excited to spend more time with these characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 9, 2023
Ring of Solomon follows a young boy, Zach, along with friends and family as he befriends a demon and battles a bully. Zach faces down not only the end of the world, but also, y'know, puberty, full of embarassing voice cracks and crushes on cute boys. His little sister Naomi, his best friend Sandra, and her cousin Carmen, along with unlikely demon ally Ash, all help protect each other and prevent the end of the world.
I would have loved this story when I was closer to Zach's age, and I loved it still as an adult. Having queer Jewish rep is so important to me personally. I know of many kids (and former kids) who will see themselves in these pages, and many others who will see their friends and classmates and perhaps understand a little more of their experience.
Plus it's just a fun story - magic! Demons! Adventure! Averting the apocalypse! What more could you ask for?
Thank you to BookishFirst and Inkyard Press for the ARC.
I would have loved this story when I was closer to Zach's age, and I loved it still as an adult. Having queer Jewish rep is so important to me personally. I know of many kids (and former kids) who will see themselves in these pages, and many others who will see their friends and classmates and perhaps understand a little more of their experience.
Plus it's just a fun story - magic! Demons! Adventure! Averting the apocalypse! What more could you ask for?
Thank you to BookishFirst and Inkyard Press for the ARC.
December 4, 2023
I have yet to read a book by Polydoros that I don't love, though this is the first book I've read by him that is marked towards middle grade readers. I like how even though the main characters step up when needed, they also feel and show fear. And sometimes get it wrong, since they aren't practiced in defending the world.
I really liked one of the plot twists Polydoros through in; I definitely didn't see it coming. Though I do wonder if someone was more familiar with stories and myths from Jewish tradition might have picked up on things sooner. Because even though it's obvious that Polydoros is taking inspiration from Jewish myth and beliefs, I don't know enough about them to know if he also pulled from other inspiration, etc.
It looks like there will be at least one more book in these series set to come out next year, and I'm definitely excited to read it and see what happens next.
I really liked one of the plot twists Polydoros through in; I definitely didn't see it coming. Though I do wonder if someone was more familiar with stories and myths from Jewish tradition might have picked up on things sooner. Because even though it's obvious that Polydoros is taking inspiration from Jewish myth and beliefs, I don't know enough about them to know if he also pulled from other inspiration, etc.
It looks like there will be at least one more book in these series set to come out next year, and I'm definitely excited to read it and see what happens next.
February 2, 2023
I am not a tween boy, but Aden Polydoros's Middle Grade debut fantasy Ring of Solomon seems like the kind of high-action, non-stop adventure that today's tween boys would love. Start with the usual problems of middle school life -- antisemitic bully, unrequited crush on a gorgeous boy, caring but "old" parents, and annoying but clever little sister -- and then throw in magical artifacts, talking animals, a demon king, and monsters from Jewish legends, and I was sold.
Recommended for the young adventurer in your house. Bonus points for low-key LGBT representation, friendships that cross ethnic and religious lines, and comeuppances to cheer for. Fans of classic horror films will like some of the references, too.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Recommended for the young adventurer in your house. Bonus points for low-key LGBT representation, friendships that cross ethnic and religious lines, and comeuppances to cheer for. Fans of classic horror films will like some of the references, too.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2023
This book was super fun. I loved hanging out with Zach and his friends and family. And of course Ash was very entertaining. The historical and religious references were educational and interesting too. This would be a great gift for any middle grade reader.
February 6, 2024
It was an awesome adventure with the right mix of characters and action, I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a good fantasy, adventure,mythology stand alone.
February 13, 2023
Zach Darlington is a pretty typical kid. He has to deal with a bully, he has a crush on someone who does not share his feelings, and he faces anti-Semitic and homophobic comments. As if he doesn’t have enough to deal with, he is also the proud owner of a magic ring that not only allows him to speak to animals, but also comes with its own King of Demons. Ashmedai, or Ash, is an ancient being who helped King Solomon build his temple, but now Zach, with the help of his friend Sandra, must teach Ash how to act like a normal kid. Plans change when the Knights of the Apocalypse steal the ring with plans to awaken three beasts and lead to the end times. Like I said, Zach is a pretty typical kid.
This is a fun fantasy novel that, in my opinion, every middle schooler can find something to connect with. Themes such as bullying, sexuality and identity, religion, friendship, and good versus evel are found throughout this novel, as well as being a delightful fantastical tale. The story is quick-paced, which I believe will keep kids hooked and reading. The inclusion of characters and events from mythology and lore was a plus, as I feel that may awaken some curiosity in kids. Ring of Solomon is a great middle school novel.
This is a fun fantasy novel that, in my opinion, every middle schooler can find something to connect with. Themes such as bullying, sexuality and identity, religion, friendship, and good versus evel are found throughout this novel, as well as being a delightful fantastical tale. The story is quick-paced, which I believe will keep kids hooked and reading. The inclusion of characters and events from mythology and lore was a plus, as I feel that may awaken some curiosity in kids. Ring of Solomon is a great middle school novel.
August 2, 2023
I don't read middle-grade-fiction very often, but I really enjoy Polydoros. This contains his imagination and magic in a fun story. But it's very middle-grade, FYI.
April 9, 2023
I'm surprised this isn't published under Rick Riordan Presents because it reads very much like those books. It's super fast-paced, funny, and you learn a lot about Jewish mythology along with a kid who isn't really into his heritage at first. A great book for reluctant readers to pick up.
February 18, 2023
I received an advance copy from Inkyard Press via Netgalley for review purposes; this in no way influences my reviews.
Content notes:
If you’re after a middle grade reminiscent of Percy Jackson and other mythology inspired series, staring a Jewish teen trying to stop the apocalypse, then you’ll want to check Ring of Solomon out! Full review closer to release.
Full review:
I love Aden Polydoros’ books and when I saw he had a middle grade I was so excited. His books hit a very special place for me, and Ring of Solomon continues that trend.
Zach and his younger sister, Naomi, find an old ring at the flea market and plan to get it for their mom for her birthday as she collects Judaica, but when they realize they can use the ring to communicate with animals, Zach decides to keep it for himself. He’s been being bullied for a while now and the teachers don’t do anything, so he makes a wish of sorts to be able to enact revenge on Jeremy and ends up awakening Ashmedai, the King of Demons.
This is definitely a fitting addition to the realm of mythology inspired middle grade novels and I loved all the Jewish lore and history. I also really love how Zach is fascinated by classic horror movies and it brings up small comments about monstrosity and who is the monster in a story. I love that this is a theme Aden continues to explore in different aspects with his books, and I’m looking forward to the continuation of Zach’s adventures.
Overall this is a really fun, exciting middle grade novel and I can’t wait to see what’ll be next for Zach and his friends! Definitely recommend if you’re a fan of books like Percy Jackson and want a story inspired by Jewish lore.
Content notes:
If you’re after a middle grade reminiscent of Percy Jackson and other mythology inspired series, staring a Jewish teen trying to stop the apocalypse, then you’ll want to check Ring of Solomon out! Full review closer to release.
Full review:
I love Aden Polydoros’ books and when I saw he had a middle grade I was so excited. His books hit a very special place for me, and Ring of Solomon continues that trend.
Zach and his younger sister, Naomi, find an old ring at the flea market and plan to get it for their mom for her birthday as she collects Judaica, but when they realize they can use the ring to communicate with animals, Zach decides to keep it for himself. He’s been being bullied for a while now and the teachers don’t do anything, so he makes a wish of sorts to be able to enact revenge on Jeremy and ends up awakening Ashmedai, the King of Demons.
This is definitely a fitting addition to the realm of mythology inspired middle grade novels and I loved all the Jewish lore and history. I also really love how Zach is fascinated by classic horror movies and it brings up small comments about monstrosity and who is the monster in a story. I love that this is a theme Aden continues to explore in different aspects with his books, and I’m looking forward to the continuation of Zach’s adventures.
Overall this is a really fun, exciting middle grade novel and I can’t wait to see what’ll be next for Zach and his friends! Definitely recommend if you’re a fan of books like Percy Jackson and want a story inspired by Jewish lore.
February 22, 2023
I want to thank Inkyard Press for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
I wish I could be more excited about Ring of Solomon because it has some qualities that make it stand out. I appreciate that the protagonist is gay and that he's Jewish. I like that he's exploring Jewish mythology, something that was new to me.
But I couldn't get past the author's writing. His use of figurative language was a bit much for me. I don't know if middle-grade students will react in the same way, but I felt like I was constantly being hit over the head.
I also didn't love the "clueless parent" trope. Zach talks to Ashmedai, a mythical god/demon who has wings and talons, among other things, just off the kitchen as they whisper about what's available for Ash to eat. And his parents, who are sitting at the kitchen table are completely oblivious?
There was too much suspension of disbelief for me in the realistic portions of the book that I struggled more with the fantastic ones.
As a former Reading teacher, I was hoping to be more impressed than I was.
I wish I could be more excited about Ring of Solomon because it has some qualities that make it stand out. I appreciate that the protagonist is gay and that he's Jewish. I like that he's exploring Jewish mythology, something that was new to me.
But I couldn't get past the author's writing. His use of figurative language was a bit much for me. I don't know if middle-grade students will react in the same way, but I felt like I was constantly being hit over the head.
I also didn't love the "clueless parent" trope. Zach talks to Ashmedai, a mythical god/demon who has wings and talons, among other things, just off the kitchen as they whisper about what's available for Ash to eat. And his parents, who are sitting at the kitchen table are completely oblivious?
There was too much suspension of disbelief for me in the realistic portions of the book that I struggled more with the fantastic ones.
As a former Reading teacher, I was hoping to be more impressed than I was.
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