Sidekicked by John David Anderson (review)

Compared to the other kids in H.E.R.O., the school club that's secretly training kids with superpowers to be sidekicks, Andrew's talents seem less than stellar: instead of flashy super strength like his best friend (and possible love interest) Jenna, he has hyper-acute senses, earning him a secret identity as the Sensationalist. Disappointing, too, is his assigned superhero mentor, the Titan, the former leader of the Legion of Justice who went underground after killing his arch-nemesis, the Dealer, and has spent the past few years drinking away his inner demons. When the Dealer emerges from presumed death, breaks his minions out of prison, and appears to be on a mission to eliminate all Supers—with a particular vengeance reserved for the still-hiding Titan—Andrew and his H.E.R.O. friends must spring into action to aid the city's current superhero in stopping the Dealer and saving the Titan. Along the way, though, Andrew uncovers a few nasty surprises, leading to some complicated questions about the ambiguity of what's right and wrong in the real world. Comparisons to Perry Moore's Hero (BCCB 10/07) are perhaps obvious, and Anderson hits the same mark of superhero action and hard but relevant issues for a younger audience. Though most readers will likely see the final twist coming, the book's combination of a seriously thrilling plot with a conclusion that satisfies without resorting to easy answers makes this novel a strong selection for comics kids.