Author of picture books, middle grade, and young adult novels

Ever since she became the guardian of the magic paintbrush, Amy has been nonstop painting. But when her paintbrush starts glitching, Amy accidentally paints a portal to a strange, magical world filled with creatures of Chinese folktales!

A mysterious cat from the portal leads Amy and her friends Diego and Luna to Minli, who presents herself as the creator of the paintbrush, and her magical forest. The magic paintbrush’s power is dwindling. Amy has two weeks to complete a Trial, a series of three tests to prove she is worthy to be the paintbrush’s guardian.

Amy’s quest will take her to mystical places. She’ll have help from Diego, Luna and the secretive Cat who may be a friend or foe. Amy and her friends must face dangerous threats, perilous landscapes, and the ever-looming feeling that everything might not be what it seems….

Award-winning author Kat Zhang teams up with Eric Darnell, the writer and director of the Madagascar series and the Chief Creative Officer of Baobab Studios on this story about responsibility, the power of friendship, and what it means to be worthy.

Buy your copy of The Guardian’s Quest

“A heartwarming story with a healthy dose of action and danger…Magic, wonder, and the power of creation combine in this tale of trials and rewards.”

– Kirkus Reviews

“Will appeal to reluctant readers who enjoy fantasy, and the incorporation of Chinese folklore will hook those with a mythology bent.”

– Booklist