In a fantastical version of the United States filled to the brim with magic and dragons, the tween prince of Texas must compete in a notoriously dangerous scavenger hunt in Realmsweep by Stonewall Honoree H.E. Edgmon.
Rowdy Buckner, the twelve-year-old prince of Texas, has a problem. More than anything, he wants access to the transfiguration tonics that will transform him from head to toe into the prince he is, in a body that feels more his own. His parents are skeptical-not because they aren't supportive, but because they don't believe that self-absorbed, spoiled Rowdy is responsible enough to be trusted with such powerful magic just yet.
In order prove himself, Rowdy signs up to compete in Realmsweep, a notoriously dangerous scavenger hunt held across the Allied Lands every five years, and sends his personal guard to assemble a team. The resulting ragtag crew of preteens isn't exactly impressive at first glance, but they're all Rowdy has. With them, he'll face off against everything from monstrous creatures to the monstrosity of humans, and maybe, if he's lucky, become the person he so desperately wants to be.
About the Author :
H.E. Edgmon did not sleep for several years and is now the award winning author of copious novels and short stories for tweens, teens, and adults. Across genres, their work prioritizes the righteous rage of survivors, the sanctity of queer love in all its forms, and an unkillable hope for an Indigenous future. They live on the ancestral lands of the Suquamish Tribe, surrounded by chosen family and giant dogs.
Review :
Praise for H.E. Edgmon:
★ "Thoughtful details add realism to the vampires' world, and the affection between quirky Lux and his compatriots brings fun and hope to a story that addresses serious, all-too-relevant issues . . . A clever, perceptive read that's full of love for those who are different." --Kirkus, starred review
★ "Edgmon injects optimism throughout . . . As Lux's biological and found families overlap, they offer a reassuring sense of acceptance and belonging in the face of adversity and oppression." --Publisher's Weekly, starred review
★ "Edgmon's middle grade debut is a dystopian, anti-capitalist, Indigenous, gender nonconforming love letter to tweens . . . The writing is engaging, the plot is lively, and the social dynamics are believable, even when presenting lessons. Edgmon doesn't pull any punches with this book . . . Through a story with some genuinely frightening moments, Edgmon helps readers explore identity. After all, who are we after all the systems we've used to define ourselves crumble?" --School Library Journal, starred review
★ "Incisive worldbuilding surrounding the climate collapse makes this middle grade debut a simultaneously cautionary tale and dystopian adventure in which Edgmon showcases the unflagging power of community in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds." --Publishers Weekly, starred review
