4 out of 4 stars
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Toni the Superhero is a delightful early reader book with colorful and vibrant illustrations. The story introduces the always cheerful Toni who just happens to be a superhero. We follow Toni throughout his day and learn about some of the things he likes to do. The simple wording and lively pictures work together to express how Toni has reached superhero status.
The repetition in the body of the story will help beginning readers recognize frequently used common words by sight. The supporting illustration is full of action and energy, which helps make the book fun to read over and over. Toni is shown in various activities with his friends, his mother, and by himself. No matter the task, he carries out every activity with a smile. This is what I enjoyed most about this book. It is a special person who can find pleasure in all things. Whether it is an overt theme or an underlying one, Toni is expressing his superpowers of contentment and enjoyment.
The only thing I disliked in the book is the illustration for page eight; it is a little confusing when compared to the text. Toni is smiling while reading a book, which at this point, completely represents the text. Yet, it may leave the reader wondering why there is an unhappy cat in a tree. Toni has his hand outstretched toward the cat, but he is otherwise ignoring him, choosing to focus on his book. Based on the picture, it could be surmised that the cat is unhappy because Toni is enjoying his book rather than playing with him. This would not be superhero-like behavior, and unbecoming to Toni. However, the situation becomes clear on page nine where we learn that Toni likes to rescue animals. Pictured is a tree minus Toni and the cat. At this point, it is realized the cat was unhappy because he was afraid to jump out of the tree and was rescued by Toni.
Despite the unclear image on page 8, I rate Toni the Superhero 4 out of 4 stars. The book is appropriate for its target age range of four years and under. The energetic illustrations are drawn in primary colors, which will capture the attention of very young children, as well as hold the attention of parents who could potentially, under their child’s request, read this book on a daily basis.
Toni’s cheerful and confident personality is present as he plays with his friends, engage in solo activities, and even as he completes his household chores. A young superhero with a joyful disposition is a positive role model for other children who are seeking to live a superhero lifestyle.
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Toni the Superhero
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