Ten Rules of Being a Superhero

August 25, 2014
As a boy plays sidekick to his beloved Captain Magma action figure, he formulates a set of rules that both celebrate the superhero life and justify his own not-
always-exemplary behavior, whether it’s littering the living room with toys (“Rule Number 2: Saving the day is messy. But everyone understands”) or escaping a scary bee (“Rule Number 8: A superhero is always brave. Well, almost always”). Pilutti (The Twelve Days of Christmas in Michigan) has a terrific sense of space, but what’s most refreshing is how she defines her characters and their relationship. Instead of opting for braggadocio and mock high drama, Pilutti’s duo’s self-awareness and low-stakes theatrics have an offhanded, almost improvisational vibe. Accused of being afraid of the bee, Lava Boy, hiding his head under his cape, is quick to point out, “I’m not, but Captain Magma is.” And after Lava Boy extols Captain Magma’s superpowers (“He is really strong, has lava vision, and a friendly personality”), Captain Magma thinks, “It’s true, but I do wish I could fly.” Ages 4–7. Agent: Jennifer Rofé, Andrea Brown Literary Agency.

September 15, 2014
There are 10 rules of being a superhero, but the second is the most important: "Saving the day is messy." By the end of this book, Captain Magma has been lifted into the sky by a bird, dropped in a nest and carted around in a wheelbarrow full of dirt. Captain Magma is only a few inches tall, and he's made of plastic, so he has to be carried around by his young sidekick, Lava Boy, who runs around the playroom in an adorable red cape and mask. The illustrations of the playroom are the highlight of the book. Pilutti has painted every toy a child could want: robots and monkeys and a green troll with hair like a firecracker. The room is so cluttered with colorful toys that readers may not know where to rest their eyes. Unfortunately, this means that large portions of the book involve sweeping and keeping the house tidy. Readers may wonder if some of the rules were created by an adult to send a wholesome message to kids. Take rule seven: "Superheroes must rest so that they can recharge...." Children may prefer the rules that involve tasty snacks; Captain Magma's battle cry is "Cookies for all!" This book is starchier than a superhero story ought to be, but almost everyone will agree with rule 10: "[S]aving the day is more fun with a friend." (Picture book. 4-7)

COPYRIGHT(2014) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

October 1, 2014

PreS-Gr 2-This story illuminates the fantasy world of one little boy and his favorite toy, Captain Magma. Together, they are Lava Boy and Captain Magma, an unstoppable duo committed to rescuing others, setting a good example, and being brave in a world that doesn't always understand them. The book does not have a traditional narrative. Rather, the 10 rules of being a superhero provide the framework for the story and much of the humor. The gouache illustrations are colorful and engaging, and children will enjoy the humorous speech bubbles throughout. From responding to a call for help and using one's powers for good to having tasty snacks on hand to keep in top form and saving the day, these rules will appeal to young superheroes (and their sidekicks) everywhere.-Sally James, South Hillsborough Elementary School, Hillsborough, CA

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.