A reader who enjoys Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse is typically a middle-grade student who revels in fast-paced fantasy adventures with strong, diverse protagonists. Fans of Rick Riordan's works, particularly his Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, will find similar appeal in Roanhorse's Navajo mythology-inspired narrative.

Rebecca Roanhorse's Race to the Sun captivates readers with its blend of Navajo mythology and modern adventure. Praises highlight its strong lead character and cultural authenticity. However, some find the pacing uneven. Overall, it is lauded for its compelling narrative and diverse representation, making it a vivid read for middle graders.

In Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse, seventh grader Nizhoni Begay discovers she can detect monsters, leading her on a quest to rescue her kidnapped father from the evil Mr. Charles. With her brother Mac and friend Davery, Nizhoni seeks Spider Woman and weapons to defeat the shapeshifting monsters, paralleling the Navajo hero twins' tale. The narrative discusses racist rhetoric, violence, and parental abandonment, and it references anti-gay rhetoric.

Adventurous / Fantastical / Exciting / Inspirational / Playful

- Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse is part of the Rick Riordan Presents imprint, which focuses on mythology and folklore-inspired stories by diverse authors.
- This novel was a finalist for the 2021 Lodestar Award for Best Young Adult Book, an honor presented annually during the Hugo Awards.
- Rebecca Roanhorse incorporates Navajo (Diné) mythology into the narrative, introducing young readers to Native American cultural elements through fantasy adventure.

**Nizhoni Begay**  
The Navajo protagonist who grapples with her ability to sense monsters and her feelings of abandonment and neglect. She embarks on a quest with her younger brother treading a complex journey towards self-discovery and embracing her cultural heritage.

**Marcus "Mac" Begay**  
Nizhoni’s younger brother, characterized by his artistic talent and lighthearted nature. He serves as Nizhoni's companion in their joint adventure, often providing comic relief and sibling camaraderie.

**Davery**  
Nizhoni’s responsible best friend and ally, who supports her throughout her journey. Known for founding the Ancestor Club at their school, he assists with research and interpretation of Navajo legends and texts.

**Mr. Yazzie**  
A horned toad toy associated with helpfulness in Navajo lore, who comes to life to assist Nizhoni in her journey. He offers guidance through enigmatic advice, proving to be a crucial yet enigmatic ally.

Rebecca Roanhorse

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Race to the Sun reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Race to the Sun | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Race to the Sun and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Race to the Sun Summary and Study Guide

Background

Race to the Sun Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-6

Race to the Sun Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-15

Race to the Sun Chapters 7-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-27

Race to the Sun Chapters 16-27 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 28-34

Race to the Sun Chapters 28-34 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 35-46

Race to the Sun Chapters 35-46 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Race to the Sun Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Race to the Sun Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Race to the Sun Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Race to the Sun Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Race to the Sun Essay Topics

Race to the Sun

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Race to the Sun?

Reading Age

Book Details