Kid X

Gr 3-7–The stakes are raised in this action-packed follow-up to Boy 2.0. Win “Coal” Keegan, who is Black, can camouflage his body, a trait passed down from his ancestors who developed it as a means of survival in the Jim Crow South. In this second installment, Coal uses his ability to do small favors for his foster siblings and classmates. As the favors escalate into pranks and reports of ghost sightings start circulating, Coal must take a break from using his powers. When he discovers a robot has been stalking him, he becomes convinced that there is a much larger plot at hand. With the worldbuilding already established in the first book, this second title maintains a suspenseful pace while exploring deeper themes. Technology and ethics are central to the plot, yet the book never lets these ideas slow its momentum. Familiar characters return, including Coal’s lovable and hilarious foster family and his friend Door. A new character is also introduced—a cousin who shares his camouflage ability and opens up the potential for sequels. The stakes are high, creating an exciting experience for readers well balanced by the pensive themes of technology, independence, and ethics.