The Bionic Boy

Fifth grader Benji Ames-Cyr hates being the center of attention. He especially dislikes the stares and comments he gets when people notice he “was born without hands.” Living in Maine with Dad and Papa, who adopted him from an overseas orphanage, he’s accustomed to using tools, such as straps to wield utensils. Though he tries to emulate the can-do attitude of his favorite superheroes, he often feels like the opposite of super, particularly because he can’t hold the hand of his spirited seven-year-old sister Becka, who has Down syndrome, to comfort her when she’s overwhelmed or keep her close, as she’s inclined to wander off. Then Benji attends a speech by staff sergeant Dirk Snyder, a “real live superhero” and quadruple amputee who uses a prosthetic arm and legs following an IED explosion. Benji resolves to become more like Snyder, who was “greater than any superhero I’d ever seen before.” This uplifting, feel-good narrative by Plourde (Best Buddies) is reinforced by the compassionate support of Benji’s family and friends, particularly from Snyder, whom the white-cued protagonist looks to as he begins to see himself in a new light. Ages 8–12. Agent: Andrea Morrison, Writers House. (Oct.)