Wedgieman: A Hero Is Born

K-Gr 2–In this “true” history of how a superhero named Veggieman became known as Wedgieman, Harper serves up a generous portion of humor that’s sure to elicit giggles from the intended chapter-book audience. Veggiebaby progresses from a playful, bold vegetable-loving infant to a strong, scoutlike Veggieboy, and, finally, dressed in superhero regalia, he is Veggieman. In this final incarnation, he executes his most daring deed, rescuing a child stranded high in a tree. However, sticks from the tree adhere to his neon green shirt, making his “V” appear as a “W” and making way for the gag that drives the entire story. His young fans dub him Wedgieman, concluding this adventure and undoubtedly paving the way for subsequent ones. Parents will appreciate the healthy-eating pitch while children are eating up a nonsensical story that is perfect for newly independent readers.–Gloria Koster, West School, New Canaan, CT