Nick the Sidekick

April 1, 2018

Gr 4-6-Nick's superpower, incredible hearing, is both a blessing and a curse; though he can always tell when the ice-cream truck is coming, his large ears make him the target of jokes. When Nick graduates, Super Fantastic Guy recruits him as a sidekick. Instead of spending his days chasing villains, however, he is overshadowed by the self-absorbed caped crusader. What's worse, Nick is the one solving crimes, but Super Fantastic Guy takes all the credit. This accessible graphic novel packs a punch. With bold colors and deep shading, the art is enticing, and the jokes about comic book clichés will have graphic novel fans laughing. Though lighthearted and simple, it offers deep, relatable messages about friendships, bullies, and standing up for yourself. VERDICT Fans of "Captain Underpants" will appreciate the humor and root for underdog Nick's hard work to be rewarded.-Emily Beasley, Omaha Public Schools

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 15, 2018
Nick never gives up faith in his own abilities even when others try to relegate him to the sidelines in this oddball, quick-paced graphic novel. In a dramatic, full-page panel, readers are introduced to caped hero Nick, silhouetted against the moon, standing atop a building--or is it a garbage can? The omniscient narrator shifts gears: If he's not a superhero, Nick must be a sidekick. But Nick rejects the typical role, breaking the fourth wall and forcing the narrator to backtrack. Left turns and surprises such as this abound in this irreverent romp, which features a mostly white cast. Readers are treated to a colorful retelling of Nick's early life and his special ability: excellent hearing powered by superbig ears. While those ears appear comical--and boy, does Nick hear about it--they can be used to good effect. Often cranky, sometimes dispirited, Nick will impress readers most with his bounce-back, never-give-up attitude, especially when he's paired with vainglorious buffoon Super Fantastic Guy. Well-paced panels, vibrant colors, and tongue-in-cheek asides keep the action popping along. In most scenes, Super Fantastic Guy dwarfs Nick, but no one outranks him. In fact, the duo might just start to work together--just not before one gets his comeuppance and the other his reward. Nick, Super Fantastic Guy, and the villains all present white, with people of color largely limited to one journalist and bystanders.A light read with a not inconsiderable punch. (Graphic fantasy. 6-9)

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