Super Manny Cleans Up! (Super Manny)

Super Manny returns to tackle an important environmental concern. . . . Fighting apathy just might be the most difficult battle Manny and Gertie have ever faced. A gentle lesson to always listen to your inner hero and help others do the same.

K-Gr 2--Manny and Gertie are cape-wearing superheroes saving the planet from danger every weekend. They battle imaginary adversaries all over town--dinosaurs at the museum, lions at the library, veggie monsters at the farmer's market, and a yeti right in their backyard. But their most epic battles take place in the park. While they're fighting giant turtles from Neptune, a plastic six-pack ring around a real turtle's neck spurs Manny and Gertie into action fighting their worst foes yet: litterbugs. Despite not understanding why no one else seems to care, the mighty, awesome duo get to work. Soon their hard work inspires others to be heroes and help clean up, too. By sunset, the litterbugs have been defeated (for now), and Manny and Gertie are happy "because every superhero needs a planet worth saving." DiPucchio's text captures all the fun, enthusiasm, and power in being part of a superhero team. Graegin uses the technique that was so successful in Manny Takes a Stand by combining the real and imaginary characters in her illustrations. This along with a mix of full-page spreads, white space, and dynamic text placement creates the perfect complement to the narrative. VERDICT This second Manny story is just as successful as the first. It tackles personal responsibility, littering, friendship, and the joys of imaginary play in a realistic, nonpreachy manner. An entertaining and inspiring read-aloud choice.--Catherine Callegari, Gay-Kimball Library, Troy, NH

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