The Invincible Boy-Bot

Gr 2–5—Lighthearted comic action is the focus of this collection of four previously published comics. Zack Allen is a smart kid who is teased at school. His life changes when he uses his wits to create a Mech-style robot suit. With it, he rights wrongs both big and small, from runaway trains to school bullies. In "Super Zero," readers learn the Zinc Alloy backstory. In "Revealed!" Zack reveals his own secret identity-a rare thing-and must deal with the consequences. In "Zinc Alloy vs. Frankenstein," the protagonist takes on a robot version of the famous neck-bolted monster, wrecking the town in the process. In "Coldfinger," Zack must protect the town from evil Dr. Icee and his Giant Freeze Ray. Reluctant readers will appreciate the pace, which is set to hyperdrive. The action comes early and often. Frequent humor assures that the mood stays light. The full-color illustrations are more cartoon than comic-book superhero, with bold outlines and basic panel work. An entertaining combination of action, humor, and silliness, Boy-Bot will be a popular pick for graphic-novel fans.—Travis Jonker, Wayland Union Schools, MI