Three (3) Engaging Book Series for Young Readers: Adventure, Mystery & Magic

No matter the generation—Gen Z, Gen Alpha, or whatever comes next—kids thrive when they’re immersed in stories. Books don’t just entertain; they build empathy, spark curiosity, and help young minds explore worlds beyond their own. 

If you're looking for book series that will captivate young readers and keep them coming back for more, here are three standout picks that blend history, fantasy, and thrilling adventure. They are the best book series for kids.  (IMHO.)

AI_Generated Image Created Using DreamUP AI Art Tool

(1) The Roman Mysteries by Caroline Lawrence

Historical fiction for young readers:  Set in ancient Rome, this award-winning mystery series follows four young sleuths as they unravel secrets of the empire. With vivid historical detail and fast-paced plots, these books are perfect for readers who love solving puzzles and learning about the past.

Meet the main characters:

• Flavia Gemina – The clever daughter of a Roman sea captain.

• Nubia – A brave African girl rescued from slavery.

• Jonathan ben Mordecai – A thoughtful Jewish-Christian boy with a knack for logic.

• Lupus – A mute beggar boy whose silence hides a sharp mind.

**Bonus: The series was adapted into a BBC television show, bringing the adventures to life onscreen.

(2) Redwall by Brian Jacques (1939–2011)

Fantasy books for kids: In a world of brave woodland creatures, peace and heroism collide in this epic fantasy saga. The Redwall series spans 22 novels, each filled with battles, quests, and richly imagined settings that rival any human fantasy world.

Why kids love it:

• Talking animals with distinct personalities and cultures.

• Themes of courage, friendship, and justice.

• Lush descriptions and immersive storytelling.

**TV Adaptation: The animated series focuses on three key books—Redwall, Mattimeo, and Martin the Warrior—and serves as a great entry point for new fans.

(3) Chronicles of the Stone Series by Fiona Ingram

Children's adventure books:  Inspired by a real-life trip to Egypt, this trilogy blends archaeology, mythology, and high-stakes adventure. Adam and Justin Sinclair must solve a 5,000-year-old mystery and recover the seven Stones of Power before dark forces beat them to it.

What makes it special:

• Real historical sites and legends are woven into the plot.

• Fast-paced action with educational depth.

• A global journey that spans continents and cultures.

*Perfect for readers who love Indiana Jones-style thrills with a touch of ancient magic.

Image credit: Book mug

📚 Final Thoughts

Whether your child loves solving mysteries, exploring ancient worlds, or joining woodland warriors in epic battles, these series offer unforgettable journeys. Each one opens the door to imagination, learning, and a lifelong love of reading.

✨

Artists I Fancy: Monica Stewart

I discovered the art of Monica Stewart while searching for work by African-American artists similar to that of Lavarne Ross. Mr. Ross knows how to capture motion, and his most famous work is called "Tribute", which features African ballerinas.  Ms. Stewart's art radiates grace, movement, and emotional depth.

Admirers have nothing but good things to say about this gifted female artist. Monica Stewart’s art has been described as “a contemporary expression of culture and sisterhood” because she captures “women of color celebrating life”. She gives her work “an authentic, ethnic flavor”. 

The next time you watch the movies “Waiting to Exhale” or “Romeo Must Die”, watch them very carefully. Her artwork has been showcased via these films. Cool huh? :)

Image credit:  Monica Stewart: Ethereal Grace

Highlights about the career of Monica Stewart:

🎨 Artistic Style & Themes

• Stewart is best known for her pastel paintings, which she loves for their brilliance and flexibility.
• Her work often centers on Black women, capturing moments of joy, reflection, and sisterhood. She once said, “I have a good understanding of myself as a woman, so I do tend to paint a lot of women”.
• Her art explores universal human experiences, aiming to evoke personal meaning for each viewer.

🖼️ Famous Works

Some of her most popular pieces include:

• “Unity” – a vibrant portrayal of African-American women dancing in harmony.
• “Graceful Motion”, “Dance of Joy”, and “Rejoice!” – all celebrate movement, rhythm, and spiritual uplift.
• Her prints have appeared in films like Waiting to Exhale, Romeo Must Die, and the sitcom Living Single.

🏆 Recognition & Impact

• Stewart’s art has been featured on California State Lottery and Bank of America calendars, as well as family record books, journals, and photo albums.
• She’s a nationally recognized artist, with her work displayed in galleries and stores across the U.S.
• Though she didn’t complete her formal art degree, her talent was nurtured early on and reignited in the 1990s, thanks in part to encouragement from novelist Terry McMillan, who was one of her first collectors.

♦

REFERENCES:

Artist Biographies - Monica Stewart

Monica Stewart – Heritages Art

The Art of Monica Stewart - Kentake Page

Music: Yuna, Malaysian Singer and Songwriter ~ What's Happening NOW?

UPDATE on Yuna, Malaysian singer-songwriter.

In 2020, I published a short blog post introducing Yuna, a Muslim Malaysian singer/songwriter. It's been 5 years, and this fabulous lady has been very busy. There’s quite a bit happening with her, and it’s a mix of music, activism, and a heartfelt return to her roots. Link to previous post.

Yuna’s official website is yunamusic.com 🎧. 

Irwandy Mazwir, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

🎶 Music & Performances

• New Malay EP in the works: Yuna is currently writing and producing a new EP in Bahasa Melayu, her first full Malay-language project since Bicara in 2017. She’s excited to reconnect with her Malaysian fanbase through this release, expected later in 2025.

• Sold-out homecoming concert: In October 2023, she performed Yunaverse in Kuala Lumpur—her first major Malaysian concert in five years. The show featured songs from her 2023 Malay EP Masih Sunyi and other fan favorites.

• Acoustic sets & fan meets: She’s been active with intimate performances, including a fan event in Bangsar in late October 2023 where she also launched a new single.

💿 Recent Releases

• Album “Y5” (2022): A genre-blending project born during the pandemic, Y5 was released as a full-length album after dropping five EPs throughout the year. It showcases R&B, soul, and disco influences.

🧵 Independent Artist Journey

• Yuna has embraced full independence, producing music from a home studio she built in her father’s office. This shift gave her creative freedom and marked a personal rebirth as an artist.

🌍 Advocacy & Impact

• Support for Palestine: Yuna has been outspoken about the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, which has led to a loss of followers, gigs, and international invitations. Despite this, she remains committed to advocacy.

• Freedom Football & YZ Label: She co-founded a fundraiser called Freedom Football and donates 15% of profits from her fashion brand YZ Label to humanitarian causes.

🏡 Return to Malaysia

• Though based in Los Angeles, Yuna has expressed a deep emotional connection to Malaysia—especially Kuala Lumpur’s Sungei Wang Plaza—and has hinted at moving back permanently to be closer to her aging parents.

Yuna’s journey right now is a beautiful blend of artistic evolution, cultural reconnection, and bold activism. If you’d like to explore her discography or dive deeper into her advocacy work, I’d be happy to guide you.

REFERENCES:

“Yuna.” Apple Music - Web Player. Accessed 4 Sept. 2025.

Izhar, Asilah. “Yuna Returns to KL with Her Homecoming Concert, ’Yunaverse.” Harper’s BAZAAR Malaysia, 24 Oct. 2023, https://harpersbazaar.my/lifestyle/culture/yunaverse-homecoming-concert-details/.

WEBBER, ANNDREA A. “LA-Based Malaysian Singer Yuna Reveals Why She Wants to Hold Her Concert at Sungei Wang Plaza.” The Star, 16 Oct. 2023, https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2023/10/13/la-based-malaysian-singer-yuna-reveals-why-she-wants-to-hold-her-concert-at-sungei-wang-plaza. 

Adleena. “Yuna Admits To Losing Followers & Overseas Show Offers After Voicing Support For Palestine.” Hype MY, 3 Sept. 2025, https://hype.my/yuna-admits-to-losing-followers-overseas-show-offers-after-voicing-support-for-palestine/.

*

Yuna- Risk It All (Official Music Video) A soulful, cinematic piece from her Y5 era, this video captures Yuna’s signature elegance and emotional depth.  

Thanks for visiting. 💓

[Blogger’s Note: This post was created with the help of a free AI tool that assisted with research, writing, formatting, and SEO.]