Review of Toni the Superhero

[Nancy Ferris Postilli]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Toni the Superhero" by R.D. Base.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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The book, Toni the Superhero by R.D. Base, is a colorfully illustrated, cute children’s book about an active character who is a “superhero” boy.

The author cleverly makes a comparison of Toni, who does everyday activities like you and me, to a superhero. Throughout the story, Toni is shown completing chores, playing with friends, and being a regular person while frequently wearing a costume. It reminds me of the superheroes we all know, like Batman and Superwoman, who are just like the rest of us, living their daily lives. Only when they are called upon do they become a superhero. In this story, the main character is identified as a superhero because he is living his best life. I loved the book's theme of everyone having the ability to be a superhero just as you are.

Another aspect of this book I appreciated was its inclusivity of various ethnicities in the portrayal of Toni’s peers and friends. Diversity is an important part of our culture, and it is refreshing to see a book that acknowledges that. It makes the book relatable to all children if they can see someone like them on the pages.

The beautiful pictures that delightfully show Toni’s activities are colorful and fun. The author emphasized that this book is targeted at parents of children who are beginning or non-readers. This is also why there is no real plot. Young children will be attracted to the illustrations. The basic sentence form and the repetitive beginning help teach emergent readers. They can pair the word meanings with the pictures they see. The numerous activities that Toni engages in lend themselves to discussing what is going on in the pictures; thus, children are using context clues that beginning readers use. 

Some people may criticize the book because it isn’t very long, but I think the author intended to introduce her character and then possibly elaborate on more of his “superpowers” in future texts. I give this book a 5 out of 5 for the flawless editing, realistic illustrations, and appropriateness for the age group it is intended for (ages 0-4). I think anyone (including preschool teachers) looking for a beginner book could choose this one with confidence. 

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Toni the Superhero
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