About This Book:
The moving story of a superhero-loving boy born without hands who finds the hero inside himself
Benji feels like he’s had more than his fair share of good luck-so it’s frustrating that his disability tends to make people think the opposite. Adopted from an overseas orphanage when he was four, he’s grown up surrounded by the love of his dads and little sister. But it seems like the only thing people notice about him is that he was born without hands. He wishes that it didn’t bother him so much when people stare at him and that he could be as confident as the superheroes he’s obsessed with. Then Benji meets a real-life hero and begins to dream about new possibilities. Staff Sergeant Snyder is a quadruple war amputee whose comfort in his own skin inspires Benji. Plus, Staff Sergeant has fun with his prosthetic limbs, making Benji wonder if it’s time he becomes bionic. It takes a near disaster in the neighborhood with their pet cat to show Benji that bionic or not, he already has all the courage it takes to be a hero. After all, heroes walk among us every day, and if he just remembers to believe in himself, he can easily be one of them.
*Review Contributed by Mark Buxton, Staff Reviewer*
What worked:
Although Benji is the main character, his younger sister may be the most entertaining part of the book. Becka is in the first grade and has Down syndrome. Becka’s positivity and friendliness make it almost impossible for readers not to feel good. She says hello to everyone, and her smiling face spreads happiness to everyone she encounters. Becka gets very psyched to participate in the Special Olympics, and her performance there earns her a special honor. She loves Benji unconditionally, and they get along as well as any brother and sister.
Benji was born without hands, and his fathers adopted him into their home. They’re supportive and patient with him, especially as he battles his fears and lack of confidence. Benji is used to his lack of hands, but he’s uncomfortable when others stare at him when they first meet. Meeting a quadruple amputee inspires and excites Benji, but he’s too frightened to ask the man a single question. Benji fears anything he assumes he can’t do, but the staff sergeant’s speech at the Special Olympics gets Benji wondering. Is he brave enough to tackle difficult challenges, knowing that he might fail?
A subplot involves a new neighbor who seems to be angry all the time. Izzy makes it clear that she doesn’t want to be here, and she has no intention of ever speaking to Benji or Becka. Benji can handle being ignored by Izzy, but he’s very protective of Becka and her feelings. No one is allowed to hurt Becka! Readers will find Izzy is almost an unsolvable mystery, as she doesn’t offer any clues to explain her attitude.
What didn’t work as well:
The book’s first half focuses on Becka’s story rather than Benji’s. His handicap is put on the back burner until Benji is offered an opportunity to get bionic arms. However, Becka is delightful, so readers won’t mind the wait. Also, the reason for Becka’s grumpiness is predictable, especially as the author provides small clues.
The final verdict:
This emotional, feel-good story will appeal to readers who enjoy simple plots in a family setting. The topics of Down syndrome, physical disabilities, and adoption are large parts of the book. I recommend you try this book for yourself, but don’t be surprised if you shed a tear or two.
*Find More Info & Buy This Book HERE!*
