4 out of 4 stars
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In today’s world where superheroes rule a child’s imagination on television, the author R.D. Base introduces a similar superhero in her children’s book Toni the Superhero. While most of the children’s books in the market deal with a moral lesson or a noble deed, this book is a bit different. It depicts the life of a superhero who is very much like a normal kid.
In this book, Toni, a young superhero, is performing his day-to-day task like any other normal kid. He is not shown to display his special powers even though he is seen flying at times, which is most probably to ascertain his status as a superhero.
The theme of a superhero as the main character is indeed a unique plot. It shows the kid that even someone with superhuman power also needs to carry on with his daily life. Toni is seen playing with his friends, helping his mother in the household chores, dusting the house, swimming, eating and sleeping, like any other boy of his age. It also breaks the norm of superheroes as usually shown on television. It is interesting to see the author depict a boy of colour as the Superhero which is not yet usual in today’s society. Subconsciously, a child accepts a superhero who also has a normal life as he does, and who doesn’t need to be a grown-up to be a hero.
Apart from the story, the illustration by Debbie Hefke was on point. The image of Toni was adorable. He wore a costume so alike Superman, but with the letter ‘T’ on his chest. He has a red cape and an eye mask to display his superhero side. The illustration is colourful, and everyone seems happy. The world where Toni lives in is shown to be a happy one, which creates a positive image in a child’s mind.
Each page in the book has a colourful picture explaining the one-line text. Through the use of visual aid, children can learn faster, and they could understand the meaning of longer words like ‘swimming’ and what it signifies in a more detailed format. It is indeed a fun way to teach a child how to read. The repetition of words makes sure that a child learns the words by heart.
I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. The book is perfect for kids who are learning to read. It is indeed appropriate, and parents could teach their young ones in a fun way. It would be better, though, if the book had a few more pages. Other than that, for a light read, I would certainly recommend this book.
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Toni the Superhero
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