Absolute Hero (Izzy Newton and the S.M.A.R.T. Squad #1)

Gr 2-6--Izzy Newton started middle school with two big problems; the fourth member of her friend group, Marie Curie, isn't talking to Izzy, Charlie Darwin, or Allie Einstein anymore; and the school's air conditioning is broken, leaving everyone freezing. Luckily, she has the scientific method for solving the air conditioning problem and determination for her friend issue. This book tackles both problems simultaneously and introduces readers to basic scientific concepts along the way. Each girl's scientific interests mirror those of their namesakes, and short introductions of the real-life scientists are featured in the back matter. By the end, the friendship issue has been resolved as a misunderstanding, and the girls, along with a new friend, Gale Carver, have formed the S.M.A.R.T. (Solving Mysteries And Revealing Truths) Squad. United as the S.M.A.R.T. Squad, the girls put their science minds together to solve the air conditioning problem. While this book is longer and meant for an older audience, the writing style has a sentence structure and vocabulary level similar to the "American Girl" series. The result is a story that is simple and a bit clichéd for older readers, but a good read for younger readers who can handle a longer book. The first chapter is a bit disjointed, but once the story gets started, it is a truly fun read that many kids will not want to put down. The characters are racially diverse, with traditional and nontraditional family units. Fabulous black-and-white illustrations bring the characters to life and further align the book with a younger audience. Despite its minor issues, this series debut is sure to be popular. VERDICT This first book in the upcoming series will be a hit, especially with younger proficient readers and hi-lo readers.--Katherine Rao, Palos Verdes Lib. Dist., CA