This story starts with an excerpt of teen protagonist Nick's fanfiction, authored about a real life superhero (called an Extraordinary in the world of the book) named Shadow Star. Although Nick has never met Shadow Star, he has a huge cringe-worthy and relatable adolescent crush on the dashing hero, which I'm guessing will come into play as the story goes on.
While the existence of superpowers is not explained in the first chapter, the fantasy element is a great addition to a story that could have otherwise seemed straightforward: a teen dealing with grief (the loss of his mother) and other issues (ADHD) while starting a new year of high school. Nick is obviously struggling, but as a narrator, he's funny and awkward - especially when it comes to discussing (or not discussing) sex with his cop father, who seems pretty understanding. The author also sets up a cops vs. vigilantes premise (a la Watchmen) that could turn out to be interesting.
All in all, this book is going to be an excellent choice for kids who love shipping and fanfiction and all those things, as well as for kids looking for their next fun read.
While the existence of superpowers is not explained in the first chapter, the fantasy element is a great addition to a story that could have otherwise seemed straightforward: a teen dealing with grief (the loss of his mother) and other issues (ADHD) while starting a new year of high school. Nick is obviously struggling, but as a narrator, he's funny and awkward - especially when it comes to discussing (or not discussing) sex with his cop father, who seems pretty understanding. The author also sets up a cops vs. vigilantes premise (a la Watchmen) that could turn out to be interesting.
All in all, this book is going to be an excellent choice for kids who love shipping and fanfiction and all those things, as well as for kids looking for their next fun read.