Defying Times: Stories for Teens and Young Adults

Chapter 9. The ChaseAsher and Marcus join forces and venture out to the New York Historical Society to continue the search together, but danger is closer—and more imminent—than they ever imagined as they discover they are not the only ones in pursuit of the mystery.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Young-Guardians-Circle-Treasure-Hunters/dp/B0F8VMGJ31/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QG0L0I7POTI9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sK_HYuCzHRs3jxW1ThEUwfUILjWrKtRf-v0QvGHNEtqB3MaW4rMVOTSKjJjb-ftAejOmoagQcJo2FOksRDsV86jqMxIhbGN3D9V-nvTDm8PXodpGC0idoS_LcHlXd781CTc-vMhlIsUitzaPF33t1toJ8yYGszDhj2Fel1cra8YipaCrRk67uOQID-XsCbrvUCSKsPtJ_ivMQ61Xoe-ue3CiNjyHlEz-PC4KkEuMZjw.Fh1lZKpSvNuRNSNI87pPLc7vGnmguLqSAfmeTPMpyc4&dib_tag=se&keywords=young+guardians+circle&qid=1776786473&sprefix=young+guardians+circle%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/young-guardians-circle

Chapter 12. The Immortal of HedongAs rebellion spreads across the empire, two future legends meet for the first time. Guan Yu, a wandering warrior with a mysterious past, crosses paths with Zhang Fei, a fearless butcher and fighter known for his fiery temper and immense strength.Their unlikely friendship becomes the first step toward one of history's most famous brotherhoods. Discover the meeting that helped shape the epic saga of the Three Kingdoms.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Flames-Legend-Brothers-Kingdoms/dp/B0FQ57WQB7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HX8X7H8MF0Z6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fvd5F8dToaNVDSDDpq1lAaPFmdV_2KmGWWfDnSX-XLs85zA0L-4YXxBvlNJZJ3Y_pkhVtVi1lFyoEQJkbo6glyswbR2vtD-n50bsGL7Eybcad3O9HnhIN6rWID9tnTCx6ie8H7PCL3Gh2lHm3OgpmQ.gXq0JrYI9vj8GJvLuqm7lWwgOGWRQlVF1wuiYN9OUDQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms&qid=1776787523&sprefix=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/empire-in-flames⁠

Chapter 6. The Knicks, SpaceX, and the Art of Pricing the 'Priceless'Fresh off the excitement of a historic Knicks playoff run, Asher discovers that the same question drives both sports fans and investors: What is something really worth?As his parents reminisce about the famous "Priceless" campaign, Asher begins to see that some of the most important things in life derive their value not from what they cost, but from what they make possible—the experiences, opportunities, dreams, and stories that follow.From sold-out arenas to reusable rockets, this chapter explores why people pay extraordinary prices for things they believe in—and why two smart people can look at the same opportunity and arrive at completely different answers.After all, whether it's a Knicks ticket, a share of stock, or a trip to Mars, everyone is trying to answer the same question:What makes something valuable, and how do you put a price on it?This story will continue next week.Learn more about us:mentornyc.org

Chapter 8. The AllianceAs the mystery deepens, news breaks that a rare rough diamond at the American Museum of Natural History has vanished overnight without a trace. As questions swirl and investigators scramble for answers, Asher Shine and Marcus Chen step outside their comfort zones and begin working together to uncover what really happened. Armed with little more than curiosity, determination, and a few vague clues, the two boys soon discover that solving a mystery is far more complicated—and dangerous—than they ever imagined.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Young-Guardians-Circle-Treasure-Hunters/dp/B0F8VMGJ31/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QG0L0I7POTI9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sK_HYuCzHRs3jxW1ThEUwfUILjWrKtRf-v0QvGHNEtqB3MaW4rMVOTSKjJjb-ftAejOmoagQcJo2FOksRDsV86jqMxIhbGN3D9V-nvTDm8PXodpGC0idoS_LcHlXd781CTc-vMhlIsUitzaPF33t1toJ8yYGszDhj2Fel1cra8YipaCrRk67uOQID-XsCbrvUCSKsPtJ_ivMQ61Xoe-ue3CiNjyHlEz-PC4KkEuMZjw.Fh1lZKpSvNuRNSNI87pPLc7vGnmguLqSAfmeTPMpyc4&dib_tag=se&keywords=young+guardians+circle&qid=1776786473&sprefix=young+guardians+circle%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/young-guardians-circle

Chapter 11. A Flicker of HopeAs the Han Empire slid deeper into decline, the Yellow Turbans ravaged villages while corruption spread through the imperial court. In Luoyang, the powerful Ten Eunuchs tightened their grip on the emperor and the empire alike.As Liu Bei sought a brief respite from the growing turmoil, he unexpectedly encountered someone who had long been forgotten.Inspired by the ancient Chinese classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Empire in Flames: The Legend of Three Brothers stays faithful to the original classic while vividly reimagining the legendary tale for modern English readers and listeners. Crafted for today’s teens and young adults, the story brings timeless themes of courage, adventure, loyalty, and strategy to life with cinematic storytelling.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Flames-Legend-Brothers-Kingdoms/dp/B0FQ57WQB7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HX8X7H8MF0Z6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fvd5F8dToaNVDSDDpq1lAaPFmdV_2KmGWWfDnSX-XLs85zA0L-4YXxBvlNJZJ3Y_pkhVtVi1lFyoEQJkbo6glyswbR2vtD-n50bsGL7Eybcad3O9HnhIN6rWID9tnTCx6ie8H7PCL3Gh2lHm3OgpmQ.gXq0JrYI9vj8GJvLuqm7lWwgOGWRQlVF1wuiYN9OUDQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms&qid=1776787523&sprefix=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/empire-in-flames⁠

Chapter 10. A Hero's ResolveReturning from a perilous journey with a priceless gift of tribute tea, Liu Bei expects his mother to be delighted. Instead, her response leaves him stunned.Inspired by the ancient Chinese classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Empire in Flames: The Legend of Three Brothers stays faithful to the original classic while vividly reimagining the legendary tale for modern English readers and listeners. Crafted for today’s teens and young adults, the story brings timeless themes of courage, adventure, loyalty, and strategy to life with cinematic storytelling.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Flames-Legend-Brothers-Kingdoms/dp/B0FQ57WQB7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HX8X7H8MF0Z6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fvd5F8dToaNVDSDDpq1lAaPFmdV_2KmGWWfDnSX-XLs85zA0L-4YXxBvlNJZJ3Y_pkhVtVi1lFyoEQJkbo6glyswbR2vtD-n50bsGL7Eybcad3O9HnhIN6rWID9tnTCx6ie8H7PCL3Gh2lHm3OgpmQ.gXq0JrYI9vj8GJvLuqm7lWwgOGWRQlVF1wuiYN9OUDQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms&qid=1776787523&sprefix=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/empire-in-flames⁠

Chapter 5. AI, Robotics,and SpaceXOn a weekend escape to a mountain resort in Upstate New York, Asher and his family find themselves talking about some of the biggest ideas shaping the future. After learning that he didn't get into a popular robotics class, Asher wonders whether robotics still matters in the age of AI—and what kinds of human skills are still needed to make the AIxRobotics future possible. The conversation soon turns to the possibility of SpaceX IPO. What does it mean when a private company goes public, and why are investors so excited about it?Coming Next Week:A deeper dive into IPOs, the differences between private and public companies, and why a SpaceX public offering has captured so much attention.Learn more about us:mentornyc.org

Chapter 7. The Dragon CircleAt the iconic New York Public Library, Asher encounters a mysterious stranger who reveals the existence of the Dragon Circle—a secret network hidden beneath layers of history, and forgotten clues. Asher must decide whom to trust and what dangers lie ahead. Is he finally getting closer to the truth, or stepping deeper into a centuries-old maze of mysteries that has trapped seekers for generations?Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Young-Guardians-Circle-Treasure-Hunters/dp/B0F8VMGJ31/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QG0L0I7POTI9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sK_HYuCzHRs3jxW1ThEUwfUILjWrKtRf-v0QvGHNEtqB3MaW4rMVOTSKjJjb-ftAejOmoagQcJo2FOksRDsV86jqMxIhbGN3D9V-nvTDm8PXodpGC0idoS_LcHlXd781CTc-vMhlIsUitzaPF33t1toJ8yYGszDhj2Fel1cra8YipaCrRk67uOQID-XsCbrvUCSKsPtJ_ivMQ61Xoe-ue3CiNjyHlEz-PC4KkEuMZjw.Fh1lZKpSvNuRNSNI87pPLc7vGnmguLqSAfmeTPMpyc4&dib_tag=se&keywords=young+guardians+circle&qid=1776786473&sprefix=young+guardians+circle%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/young-guardians-circle

Chapter 9. The Fierce Man of YanLiu Bei and Lady Lotus are relentlessly pursued by the Yellow Turbans when an unexpected figure emerges from the chaos to save them — marking the fateful first meeting of the heroes.Inspired by the ancient Chinese classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Empire in Flames: The Legend of Three Brothers stays faithful to the original classic while vividly reimagining the legendary tale for modern English readers and listeners. Crafted for today’s teens and young adults, the story brings timeless themes of courage, adventure, loyalty, and strategy to life with cinematic storytelling.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Flames-Legend-Brothers-Kingdoms/dp/B0FQ57WQB7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HX8X7H8MF0Z6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fvd5F8dToaNVDSDDpq1lAaPFmdV_2KmGWWfDnSX-XLs85zA0L-4YXxBvlNJZJ3Y_pkhVtVi1lFyoEQJkbo6glyswbR2vtD-n50bsGL7Eybcad3O9HnhIN6rWID9tnTCx6ie8H7PCL3Gh2lHm3OgpmQ.gXq0JrYI9vj8GJvLuqm7lWwgOGWRQlVF1wuiYN9OUDQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms&qid=1776787523&sprefix=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/empire-in-flames⁠

Chapter 4: Keith Haring, Street Musicians, and the Art of BagelsAsher and his older cousin Kai visit the Brant Foundation to see the Keith Haring exhibition and wander through the East Village. They discuss everything from the art and magic of New York bagels to contemporary art, and subway musicians. Along the way, they reflect on why some talents are celebrated while others are overlooked — and how, in New York City, the revolving doors of opportunity seem to swing open and shut at dizzying speed, from Prep for Prep and Cooper Union to galleries, and even underground subway platforms.Learn more about us:mentornyc.org

Chapter 6. A Secret Hidden In the OdysseyThis chapter follows Asher to the towering marble lions Patience and Fortitude guarding the entrance of the New York Public Library, where the key to a mysterious object may be hidden. Beneath the shadows of the grand library, Asher searches for the hidden treasure that would uncover much bigger secrets.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Young-Guardians-Circle-Treasure-Hunters/dp/B0F8VMGJ31/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QG0L0I7POTI9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sK_HYuCzHRs3jxW1ThEUwfUILjWrKtRf-v0QvGHNEtqB3MaW4rMVOTSKjJjb-ftAejOmoagQcJo2FOksRDsV86jqMxIhbGN3D9V-nvTDm8PXodpGC0idoS_LcHlXd781CTc-vMhlIsUitzaPF33t1toJ8yYGszDhj2Fel1cra8YipaCrRk67uOQID-XsCbrvUCSKsPtJ_ivMQ61Xoe-ue3CiNjyHlEz-PC4KkEuMZjw.Fh1lZKpSvNuRNSNI87pPLc7vGnmguLqSAfmeTPMpyc4&dib_tag=se&keywords=young+guardians+circle&qid=1776786473&sprefix=young+guardians+circle%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/young-guardians-circle

Chapter 8. Danger EverywhereIn this chapter, Liu Bei continues his journey to bring precious tribute tea home to his mother. But the road is far from safe. As storms gather and hidden threats emerge, Liu Bei must rely on courage, quick thinking, wisdom, and determination to protect the priceless gift and survive the dangers ahead.Inspired by the ancient Chinese classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Empire in Flames: The Legend of Three Brothers stays faithful to the original classic while vividly reimagining the legendary tale for modern English readers and listeners. Crafted for today’s teens and young adults, the story brings timeless themes of courage, adventure, loyalty, and strategy to life with cinematic storytelling.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Flames-Legend-Brothers-Kingdoms/dp/B0FQ57WQB7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HX8X7H8MF0Z6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fvd5F8dToaNVDSDDpq1lAaPFmdV_2KmGWWfDnSX-XLs85zA0L-4YXxBvlNJZJ3Y_pkhVtVi1lFyoEQJkbo6glyswbR2vtD-n50bsGL7Eybcad3O9HnhIN6rWID9tnTCx6ie8H7PCL3Gh2lHm3OgpmQ.gXq0JrYI9vj8GJvLuqm7lWwgOGWRQlVF1wuiYN9OUDQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms&qid=1776787523&sprefix=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/empire-in-flames⁠

Chapter 3: Mega Millions and the Business of Selling HopeA curious NYC kid, a young babysitter dreaming a West Village life, and a glowing Mega Millions sign at a bodega spark a surprisingly deep conversation about money, luck, probability, psychology, behavioral economics, FOMO, herd mentality, and the dreams people chase.Learn more about us:mentornyc.org

Chapter 5. The PackageA mysterious, ancient-looking package arrives at Asher’s Upper West Side home, carrying a cryptic message unlike anything he’s ever seen. Could this be the moment that pulls him into a hunt far greater than he ever imagined? Or has the hunt already begun?Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Young-Guardians-Circle-Treasure-Hunters/dp/B0F8VMGJ31/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QG0L0I7POTI9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sK_HYuCzHRs3jxW1ThEUwfUILjWrKtRf-v0QvGHNEtqB3MaW4rMVOTSKjJjb-ftAejOmoagQcJo2FOksRDsV86jqMxIhbGN3D9V-nvTDm8PXodpGC0idoS_LcHlXd781CTc-vMhlIsUitzaPF33t1toJ8yYGszDhj2Fel1cra8YipaCrRk67uOQID-XsCbrvUCSKsPtJ_ivMQ61Xoe-ue3CiNjyHlEz-PC4KkEuMZjw.Fh1lZKpSvNuRNSNI87pPLc7vGnmguLqSAfmeTPMpyc4&dib_tag=se&keywords=young+guardians+circle&qid=1776786473&sprefix=young+guardians+circle%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/young-guardians-circle

Chapter 7. The Mighty Yellow RiverInspired by the ancient Chinese classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Empire in Flames: The Legend of Three Brothers stays faithful to the original classic while vividly reimagining the legendary tale for modern English readers and listeners. Crafted for today’s teens and young adults, the story brings timeless themes of courage, adventure, loyalty, and strategy to life with cinematic storytelling.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Flames-Legend-Brothers-Kingdoms/dp/B0FQ57WQB7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HX8X7H8MF0Z6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fvd5F8dToaNVDSDDpq1lAaPFmdV_2KmGWWfDnSX-XLs85zA0L-4YXxBvlNJZJ3Y_pkhVtVi1lFyoEQJkbo6glyswbR2vtD-n50bsGL7Eybcad3O9HnhIN6rWID9tnTCx6ie8H7PCL3Gh2lHm3OgpmQ.gXq0JrYI9vj8GJvLuqm7lWwgOGWRQlVF1wuiYN9OUDQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms&qid=1776787523&sprefix=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/empire-in-flames⁠

Chapter 2. Venmo, Banking, and Invisible LedgersOn the streets of New York City, Asher notices a homeless man holding a sign that says he accepts Venmo. Confused and curious, Asher begins asking questions about how money works in a world where cash is disappearing. What follows is an eye-opening conversation about banks, digital payments, invisible ledgers, and the giant systems quietly tracking money behind everyday life.

Chapter 4. Treasure Hunt in Old SeoulAs summer break begins, Asher boards a flight to Seoul with his parents and unexpectedly sits next to Jia — a clever and kind girl who shares insider tips about where to find interesting artifacts in the old part of Seoul. But while watching the grand changing of the royal guards ceremony at Gwanghwamun Gate, Asher catches sight of a strange black-and-white cat moving silently through the guards. What begins as a summer trip soon turns into the first clue of a much larger mystery hidden across different parts of the world.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Young-Guardians-Circle-Treasure-Hunters/dp/B0F8VMGJ31/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QG0L0I7POTI9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sK_HYuCzHRs3jxW1ThEUwfUILjWrKtRf-v0QvGHNEtqB3MaW4rMVOTSKjJjb-ftAejOmoagQcJo2FOksRDsV86jqMxIhbGN3D9V-nvTDm8PXodpGC0idoS_LcHlXd781CTc-vMhlIsUitzaPF33t1toJ8yYGszDhj2Fel1cra8YipaCrRk67uOQID-XsCbrvUCSKsPtJ_ivMQ61Xoe-ue3CiNjyHlEz-PC4KkEuMZjw.Fh1lZKpSvNuRNSNI87pPLc7vGnmguLqSAfmeTPMpyc4&dib_tag=se&keywords=young+guardians+circle&qid=1776786473&sprefix=young+guardians+circle%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/young-guardians-circle

Chapter 6. Heaven's CommandInspired by the ancient Chinese classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Empire in Flames: The Legend of Three Brothers stays faithful to the original classic while vividly reimagining the legendary tale for modern English readers and listeners. Crafted for today’s teens and young adults, the story brings timeless themes of courage, adventure, loyalty, and strategy to life with cinematic storytelling.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Flames-Legend-Brothers-Kingdoms/dp/B0FQ57WQB7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HX8X7H8MF0Z6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fvd5F8dToaNVDSDDpq1lAaPFmdV_2KmGWWfDnSX-XLs85zA0L-4YXxBvlNJZJ3Y_pkhVtVi1lFyoEQJkbo6glyswbR2vtD-n50bsGL7Eybcad3O9HnhIN6rWID9tnTCx6ie8H7PCL3Gh2lHm3OgpmQ.gXq0JrYI9vj8GJvLuqm7lWwgOGWRQlVF1wuiYN9OUDQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms&qid=1776787523&sprefix=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠⁠1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/empire-in-flames⁠

Chapter 1. Robux, Bitcoin, and Fool's GoldAsher loses his hard-earned Robux—and starts asking a bigger question: what is money, really? A story about value, trust, and what makes something "money".

Chapter 3. The Watchers of The EdgeFollow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Young-Guardians-Circle-Treasure-Hunters/dp/B0F8VMGJ31/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QG0L0I7POTI9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sK_HYuCzHRs3jxW1ThEUwfUILjWrKtRf-v0QvGHNEtqB3MaW4rMVOTSKjJjb-ftAejOmoagQcJo2FOksRDsV86jqMxIhbGN3D9V-nvTDm8PXodpGC0idoS_LcHlXd781CTc-vMhlIsUitzaPF33t1toJ8yYGszDhj2Fel1cra8YipaCrRk67uOQID-XsCbrvUCSKsPtJ_ivMQ61Xoe-ue3CiNjyHlEz-PC4KkEuMZjw.Fh1lZKpSvNuRNSNI87pPLc7vGnmguLqSAfmeTPMpyc4&dib_tag=se&keywords=young+guardians+circle&qid=1776786473&sprefix=young+guardians+circle%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/young-guardians-circle

Chapter 5. The Golden Empire CrumblesInspired by the ancient Chinese classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Empire in Flames: The Legend of Three Brothers stays faithful to the original classic while vividly reimagining the legendary tale for modern English readers and listeners. Crafted for today’s teens and young adults, the story brings timeless themes of courage, adventure, loyalty, and strategy to life with cinematic storytelling.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Flames-Legend-Brothers-Kingdoms/dp/B0FQ57WQB7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HX8X7H8MF0Z6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fvd5F8dToaNVDSDDpq1lAaPFmdV_2KmGWWfDnSX-XLs85zA0L-4YXxBvlNJZJ3Y_pkhVtVi1lFyoEQJkbo6glyswbR2vtD-n50bsGL7Eybcad3O9HnhIN6rWID9tnTCx6ie8H7PCL3Gh2lHm3OgpmQ.gXq0JrYI9vj8GJvLuqm7lWwgOGWRQlVF1wuiYN9OUDQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms&qid=1776787523&sprefix=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/empire-in-flames⁠

Chapter 4. The Family HeirloomInspired by the ancient Chinese classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Empire in Flames: The Legend of Three Brothers stays faithful to the original classic while vividly reimagining the legendary tale for modern English readers and listeners. Crafted for today’s teens and young adults, the story brings timeless themes of courage, adventure, loyalty, and strategy to life with cinematic storytelling.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Flames-Legend-Brothers-Kingdoms/dp/B0FQ57WQB7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HX8X7H8MF0Z6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fvd5F8dToaNVDSDDpq1lAaPFmdV_2KmGWWfDnSX-XLs85zA0L-4YXxBvlNJZJ3Y_pkhVtVi1lFyoEQJkbo6glyswbR2vtD-n50bsGL7Eybcad3O9HnhIN6rWID9tnTCx6ie8H7PCL3Gh2lHm3OgpmQ.gXq0JrYI9vj8GJvLuqm7lWwgOGWRQlVF1wuiYN9OUDQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms&qid=1776787523&sprefix=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-⁠⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠⁠1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/empire-in-flames⁠

This episode introduces A Young New Yorker’s Guide to Money (working title)—a story-driven, real-world exploration of how young people think about, experience, and learn money in today’s fast-moving world. Set against the backdrop of New York City, the series bridges everyday curiosity with deeper financial understanding, inviting teens, parents, and curious listeners everywhere into an ongoing conversation about making sense of money and investing in the age of AI. Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:www.mentornyc.org

Chapter 2. A Mysterious Cat in AthensFollow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠https://www.amazon.com/Young-Guardians-Circle-Treasure-Hunters/dp/B0F8VMGJ31/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QG0L0I7POTI9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sK_HYuCzHRs3jxW1ThEUwfUILjWrKtRf-v0QvGHNEtqB3MaW4rMVOTSKjJjb-ftAejOmoagQcJo2FOksRDsV86jqMxIhbGN3D9V-nvTDm8PXodpGC0idoS_LcHlXd781CTc-vMhlIsUitzaPF33t1toJ8yYGszDhj2Fel1cra8YipaCrRk67uOQID-XsCbrvUCSKsPtJ_ivMQ61Xoe-ue3CiNjyHlEz-PC4KkEuMZjw.Fh1lZKpSvNuRNSNI87pPLc7vGnmguLqSAfmeTPMpyc4&dib_tag=se&keywords=young+guardians+circle&qid=1776786473&sprefix=young+guardians+circle%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/young-guardians-circle

Chapter 3. The Mysterious MonkInspired by the ancient Chinese classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Empire in Flames: The Legend of Three Brothers stays faithful to the original classic while vividly reimagining the legendary tale for modern English readers and listeners. Crafted for today’s teens and young adults, the story brings timeless themes of courage, adventure, loyalty, and strategy to life with cinematic storytelling.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Flames-Legend-Brothers-Kingdoms/dp/B0FQ57WQB7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HX8X7H8MF0Z6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fvd5F8dToaNVDSDDpq1lAaPFmdV_2KmGWWfDnSX-XLs85zA0L-4YXxBvlNJZJ3Y_pkhVtVi1lFyoEQJkbo6glyswbR2vtD-n50bsGL7Eybcad3O9HnhIN6rWID9tnTCx6ie8H7PCL3Gh2lHm3OgpmQ.gXq0JrYI9vj8GJvLuqm7lWwgOGWRQlVF1wuiYN9OUDQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms&qid=1776787523&sprefix=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-⁠⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠⁠1⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/empire-in-flames

Chapter 1. The Young New YorkerFollow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/Young-Guardians-Circle-Treasure-Hunters/dp/B0F8VMGJ31/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QG0L0I7POTI9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sK_HYuCzHRs3jxW1ThEUwfUILjWrKtRf-v0QvGHNEtqB3MaW4rMVOTSKjJjb-ftAejOmoagQcJo2FOksRDsV86jqMxIhbGN3D9V-nvTDm8PXodpGC0idoS_LcHlXd781CTc-vMhlIsUitzaPF33t1toJ8yYGszDhj2Fel1cra8YipaCrRk67uOQID-XsCbrvUCSKsPtJ_ivMQ61Xoe-ue3CiNjyHlEz-PC4KkEuMZjw.Fh1lZKpSvNuRNSNI87pPLc7vGnmguLqSAfmeTPMpyc4&dib_tag=se&keywords=young+guardians+circle&qid=1776786473&sprefix=young+guardians+circle%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/young-guardians-circle

Step into the world of Young Guardians’ Circle: Treasure Hunters in New York, the first book of the Guardians’ Circle Trilogy—where mystery, adventure, and imagination collide in the heart of New York City. This episode marks the official launch of the Young Guardians’ Circle audiobook.Each chapter will be released weekly as part of this podcast, leading up to the full-length unabridged audiobook, which will be available for purchase on major audiobook platforms.Follow along as the story unfolds—each episode drawing you deeper into a journey of courage, curiosity, and the thrill of discovery.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠https://www.amazon.com/Young-Guardians-Circle-Treasure-Hunters/dp/B0F8VMGJ31/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QG0L0I7POTI9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sK_HYuCzHRs3jxW1ThEUwfUILjWrKtRf-v0QvGHNEtqB3MaW4rMVOTSKjJjb-ftAejOmoagQcJo2FOksRDsV86jqMxIhbGN3D9V-nvTDm8PXodpGC0idoS_LcHlXd781CTc-vMhlIsUitzaPF33t1toJ8yYGszDhj2Fel1cra8YipaCrRk67uOQID-XsCbrvUCSKsPtJ_ivMQ61Xoe-ue3CiNjyHlEz-PC4KkEuMZjw.Fh1lZKpSvNuRNSNI87pPLc7vGnmguLqSAfmeTPMpyc4&dib_tag=se&keywords=young+guardians+circle&qid=1776786473&sprefix=young+guardians+circle%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/young-guardians-circle

Chapter 2. Pavilion on the Mulberry TreeInspired by the ancient Chinese classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Empire in Flames: The Legend of Three Brothers stays faithful to the original classic while vividly reimagining the legendary tale for modern English readers and listeners. Crafted for today’s teens and young adults, the story brings timeless themes of courage, adventure, loyalty, and strategy to life with cinematic storytelling.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Flames-Legend-Brothers-Kingdoms/dp/B0FQ57WQB7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HX8X7H8MF0Z6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fvd5F8dToaNVDSDDpq1lAaPFmdV_2KmGWWfDnSX-XLs85zA0L-4YXxBvlNJZJ3Y_pkhVtVi1lFyoEQJkbo6glyswbR2vtD-n50bsGL7Eybcad3O9HnhIN6rWID9tnTCx6ie8H7PCL3Gh2lHm3OgpmQ.gXq0JrYI9vj8GJvLuqm7lWwgOGWRQlVF1wuiYN9OUDQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms&qid=1776787523&sprefix=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠1⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/empire-in-flames

Chapter 1. The Palace of ShadowsInspired by the ancient Chinese classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Empire in Flames: The Legend of Three Brothers stays faithful to the original classic while vividly reimagining the legendary tale for modern English readers and listeners. Crafted for today’s teens and young adults, the story brings timeless themes of courage, adventure, loyalty, and strategy to life with cinematic storytelling.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Flames-Legend-Brothers-Kingdoms/dp/B0FQ57WQB7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HX8X7H8MF0Z6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fvd5F8dToaNVDSDDpq1lAaPFmdV_2KmGWWfDnSX-XLs85zA0L-4YXxBvlNJZJ3Y_pkhVtVi1lFyoEQJkbo6glyswbR2vtD-n50bsGL7Eybcad3O9HnhIN6rWID9tnTCx6ie8H7PCL3Gh2lHm3OgpmQ.gXq0JrYI9vj8GJvLuqm7lWwgOGWRQlVF1wuiYN9OUDQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms&qid=1776787523&sprefix=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-⁠Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:⁠1⁠⁠https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/empire-in-flames

This episode introduces to the audience "Empire in Flames: The Legend of Three Brothers", Book 1 of The Three Kingdoms series.Inspired by the ancient Chinese classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Empire in Flames: The Legend of Three Brothers stays faithful to the original classic while vividly reimagining the legendary tale for modern English readers and listeners. Crafted for today’s teens and young adults, the story brings timeless themes of courage, adventure, loyalty, and strategy to life with cinematic storytelling.Follow the link below to order print or digital books from Amazon:⁠https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Flames-Legend-Brothers-Kingdoms/dp/B0FQ57WQB7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HX8X7H8MF0Z6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fvd5F8dToaNVDSDDpq1lAaPFmdV_2KmGWWfDnSX-XLs85zA0L-4YXxBvlNJZJ3Y_pkhVtVi1lFyoEQJkbo6glyswbR2vtD-n50bsGL7Eybcad3O9HnhIN6rWID9tnTCx6ie8H7PCL3Gh2lHm3OgpmQ.gXq0JrYI9vj8GJvLuqm7lWwgOGWRQlVF1wuiYN9OUDQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms&qid=1776787523&sprefix=empire+in+flames+three+kingdoms%2Caps%2C178&sr=8-Learn more about Mentor NYC and order print books:1https://www.mentornyc.org/product-page/empire-in-flames

Welcome to Defying Times: Stories for Teens & Young Adults—a storytelling podcast from Mentor NYC, an independent content creator and publishing studio based in New York City.At Mentor NYC, we create timeless stories, books, and immersive audio experiences for teens and young adults—blending culture, history, and modern ideas to inspire how the next generation thinks, learns, and grows.Each week, we bring you a new installment from our audiobooks—crafted as short, engaging episodes you can listen to anytime. Whether it’s a bedtime story, a quiet moment to unwind, or something to play on a long car ride, these stories are designed to fit into your day while leaving a lasting impression.If this story pulled you in, you’re just getting started.These are stories created in the heart of New York City—yet they resonate with growing minds everywhere. From city streets to ancient battlefields, each story is crafted to challenge how you think, decide, and see the world.We begin with Empire in Flames, the first book of the Three Kingdoms series—based on the classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms—and Young Guardians’ Circle, the first book of the Guardians’ Circle trilogy, set right in the heart of New York City.Enjoy these weekly installments—perfect for bedtime, long drives, or quiet moments to yourself. And when you’re ready for the full journey, the unabridged audiobooks will be available on major platforms including Spotify, Apple Books, Google Play Books, Kobo Books, and other major audiobook retailers.Learn more on MentorNYC.org. Print books are available on the website, on Amazon, and all the major booksellers.mentornyc.orgFollow now so you don’t miss a chapter—and stay tuned for the full audiobook releases.And keep listening, keep thinking, and keep moving forward.© Mentor NYC LLC. All rights reserved.This podcast contains serialized excerpts from copyrighted works and is intended for preview and promotional purposes only. No part may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted without prior written permission.Audio narration may be digitally generated or enhanced. All rights reserved by Mentor NYC.