Momo Arashima Duels the Queen of Death
#3 of 3 in Momo Arashima Series
on Goodreads (26)
What’s inside...
In the third adventure of Misa Sugiura’s Japanese-mythology–infused series, half-goddess Momo Arashima races against time after the door to Yomi—the land of the dead—swings open above her quiet coastal hometown. When her mother is spirited away by Izanami, Queen of Death, Momo must travel through present-day California, the Pacific, and the shadowy underworld to save both her family and the human world. Armed with the Sword of the Wind, the teen hero teams up with friends Danny and Niko, weathering treacherous trials, trickster spirits, and her own self-doubt before a climactic duel with the death goddess herself.
Character compass
Momo Arashima
Niko (Kitsune Guardian)
Danny Ramirez
Izanami-no-Mikoto (Queen of Death)
Discussion points
What does Momo learn about balancing mercy and strength?
How do Danny and Niko’s skills complement Momo’s?
Why might Izanami feel wronged? Is she purely evil?
Which trial in Yomi felt most challenging and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a ‘myth creature’ journal together, noting each spirit’s traits.
Pause after tense scenes to ask how your child feels and what they predict next.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy strengthens leadership.
Explanation: Momo tempers her sword skills with compassion during the final duel.
Real-World Application: Listening to classmates’ feelings before reacting.
Example Lesson: Courage can mean admitting fear.
Explanation: Momo voices her anxiety in the Hall of Reflections.
Real-World Application: Sharing worries with trusted adults or friends.
Example Lesson: Teamwork multiplies strengths.
Explanation: Each friend’s unique talent overcomes different Yomi trials.
Real-World Application: Group projects at school benefit from diverse skills.
Example Lesson: Cultural roots are valuable.
Explanation: Momo’s knowledge of myths gives her an edge against Izanami.
Real-World Application: Researching family traditions and sharing them in class.