The Best Superhero Ever

For Module 2
Grey, M. (2005). Traction man is here. New York: Alfred A. Knopf.

Traction man comes in a cool box with several changes of clothes and loud pants. From the very beginning he shows his true mettle by battling the evil pillows and saving the farm animals, then volunteering to explore the hidden submerged regions to search for the lost Wreck of the Sieve. Because it's Christmas, the superhero has to take a trip to Grandma's house where he, along with everyone else, receives a fancy knitted Christmas gift! But how can a superhero be brave and strong while wearing a green romper suit? Suddenly, Traction Man's loyal sidekick, Scrubbing Brush, comes up with a marvelous idea!

My view:
What a wonderful story! This is one of Will's favorites. We've read and reread this tale even though Will, at 9 years old, thinks he is too old for most picture books (he's not). But I don't think we ever outgrow Traction Man!

A review from School Library Journal had this to say about Traction Man Is Here: "Powered by a young boy's imagination, an intrepid action figure embarks on several perilous adventures accompanied by his faithful pet, Scrubbing Brush. Traction Man---along with everyday objects cast as villains and victims--springs to life through lively comic-book-style pictures and witty text.

In the library: Although this book is much more geared for lap reading (with so many different captions and interesting asides), it would be wonderful in a Superhero storytime lineup with such other books as Superhero ABC and Robot Zot! I can imagine making capes or loyal sidekicks as a craft.

--- Traction Man Is Here (review). School Library Journal, 51, p38-38