Arnold the Super-ish Hero

Peach-skinned, spindly limbed Arnold works “in the family superhero business”—answering phones and writing “really neat” messages for his family (Cousin Marvella is superstrong; his brother Rocket flies “at lightning speed”). With no remarkable abilities of his own (his knack for eating really fast is “impressive, but not super”), it seems all he can offer is administrative support. Then Arnold receives a distress call in the empty office. “I must do something!” he exclaims, setting off (on a city bus) to find the child in distress. Along the way, Arnold offers aid: feeding a neglected baby duck, stopping a speeding skateboarder. But when he helps the child who sparked his journey, he realizes his “super-ish” capabilities. Relayed in a comics style enhanced by Perreault’s detailed digital art, Tekavec’s humorous underdog story is endearing, reminding readers of the truism that one can “change the world with a few good deeds.” Ages 4–7. (June)