“Baptist presents the direness of abject poverty with exquisite empathy. Isaiah is a likable character readers will identify with his struggle to rise above his family’s housing issues to define himself.” - School Library Journal “ An accessible story about a child facing loss and home instability. 'In this moving tale of life, loss, and the love of words, Isaiah learns that perseverance and vulnerability are real superpowers and that family and community are the real wind beneath a superhero’s cape.' - The Horn Book 'Isaiah’s optimism, drive, and loyalty to friends and family make him a hero to cheer for and lend a feeling of hope to this exploration of difficult topics.' - Publishers Weekly, starred review ' An uplifting, affirming story for every collection.” - Booklist, starred review

“An inventive and heartfelt debut novel.” - The New York Times

Baptist's debut novel explores the indomitable spirit of a ten-year-old boy and the superhero strength it takes to grow up.Ī Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year! He could use those powers right about now! Plus, his classmate Angel has a few good ideas of her own-once she stops hassling Isaiah.Īnd when things get really tough, there's Daddy's journal, filled with stories about the amazing Isaiah Dunn, a superhero who gets his powers from beans and rice. Good thing Isaiah can count on his best friend, Sneaky, who always has a scheme for getting around the rules. His little sister, Charlie, asks too many questions, and Mama's gone totally silent. But it's a lot harder than his dad made it look. Adapted from a story that first appeared in Flying Lessons & Other Stories and perfect for fans of The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson. A coming-of-age tale about a boy who proves that with superhero courage-and a few great sidekicks-you can take on even the toughest of odds.

Isaiah dunn is my hero read aloud