The Great Cape Rescue (The Society of Super Secret Heroes, Book 1)
Grade 2–4—Finch and his buddies have always enjoyed playing superheroes, but now that they're in fourth grade, they worry that it may seem babyish. Then, the costume cape that Finch has played with since kindergarten begins talking to him. It claims to be an ancient Arabian Thinking Cape, capable of endowing its Master with extraordinary powers. The boys form the Society of Super Secret Heroes and resolve to use the cape's magic to help others, secretly solving problems through brains rather than brawn. With the cape's advice and assistance, the SSSH members help reconcile two quarreling friends and plan a huge surprise party to help a new teacher feel welcome. Unfortunately, the class bully is determined to force Finch into a fight, whether it takes insults, threatening the class pets, or even stealing the cape itself. This genial fantasy emphasizes individual courage and initiative. Although the cape talks like a fabulous being straight out of the Arabian Nights, its actual powers are fairly limited, forcing the boys to do most of the real work. Relationships realistically reflect the changes kids go through between primary and early intermediate grades. There is plenty of playground humor, including the gross-out variety supplied by plastic vomit and other noxious substances. The black-and-white sketches are amusing as well. Longer than most early chapter books, this selection is a worthwhile choice for transition readers anxious to tackle a "big book."—Elaine E. Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, ILCopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.