DJ MacDonald Book One: A Tale of a Malipayon Warrior

Magic spells, mythical transformations and a life-threatening quest—DJ MacDonald Book One: A Tale of a Malipayon Warrior has it all. In her first novel, Corie Laraya-Coutts introduces readers to fourteen-year-old Duncan “DJ” James MacDonald, who is living a relatively normal life in Guelph, Ontario—or so he thinks. After his Halloween night brings an unexpected treat—in the form of a magic book only he can operate—his world begins to unravel. Graphic visions plague his waking and dreaming states, a strange creature sends him messages asking to be rescued, and his emotions become uncontrollable, moving into The Incredible Hulk territory. It isn’t until a family reunion in the Philippines, his mother’s home country, that DJ begins to understand the source of his newfound powers. From clothing to food to family dynamics, Laraya-Coutts’ love and respect for Filipino history and culture are evident. She uses these cultural details to enhance her story, enriching this story with vivid authenticity that fans of Jentry Chau vs. The Underworld will particularly enjoy.

In a welcome change from some YA fiction, and perhaps because of the strong Filipino connection, adults are present and capable in DJ MacDonald, playing a key role in advancing the plot without overshadowing the teenaged characters. This connection to family helps build the characters into people who strive for positive change. In believing in each other, they learn to believe in themselves, and this faith ultimately brings them the superpowers and adventures most kids dream of.

The writing is vivid and fast-paced, taking DJ, his family, and readers to a range of dangerous locations, including a melting hot volcano centre and deepest, darkest corners of the sea. The pacing remains taut and engaging, free from unnecessary detours, yet Laraya-Coutts still allows room for awe, pausing to linger on each carefully imagined colour, creature, and sensation. Whether riding sea horses or hiding from carnivorous ants, the imagery leaps off the page and is further elevated by Hanne Lore Koehler’s accompanying illustrations, which bring Laraya-Coutts’ world to life.

While the story structure and grammar could be more refined, and a few of the wording choices may feel questionable or dated, it’s clear this book is a well-intentioned labour of love. The prose reads like a traditional fairytale, often summarizing action rather than dramatizing it, yet this stylistic choice lends the book a folkloric charm and timeless rhythm that will resonate with readers who enjoy classic storytelling. The result is a reading experience that feels both nostalgic and distinctive—one that may leave some readers wholly satisfied, and others eager for more.

A modern piece of folklore filled with heart, DJ MacDonald is an imaginative adventure that celebrates courage, heritage, and the magic of believing in yourself. Whether it’s the visual delights and new cultural experiences of travelling, the heart-pounding rush of adrenaline that comes from fighting your enemies, or the overwhelming thrill of using your superpowers, every chapter is a new, captivating experience that will keep readers hooked until the very end.

—CANREADS BOOK REVIEW

Purchase DJ MacDonald at Indigo