Deep in the collection of my online reader links, Maker Girl and Professor Smarts by Jasmine Florentine showed up and I read it via that manner. Currently available, I’m glad I read this book via the online way for this cute and silly superhero story. While there was nothing wrong with the book, everything was not for me and therefore, I did not need a physical copy to keep. It is great for the second grade on up, as it has all the elements younger readers like, such as bold, bright, and minimalistic illustrations that capture the fun. The story arc is fast and not so furious. And in addition to the traditional elements of a good book or graphic novel read, STEM information and goodies. When the sequel comes out (August 2026) your child will run to the independent bookstore of their choice and buy it.
The age old superhero origin story takes place, but a little differently than usual. Everyone, but this small, backwater-like town has real heroes and super villains. This town has such lame villains it’s hard to tell if they meant to be a hero or villain in the first place. But nonetheless, they are annoying and it’s up to a couple of pre-teens to save the day. Or at least one thinks so and her best friend is along for the ride, to try and make sure she does not go off the rails too much. Especially since neither of them have “real” powers. After all, a tote bag with the abilities to make Mary Poppins carpet bag be jealous, might not really be a good idea.
The action happens and we see how things like Making Things and Thinking up Things (or being smart) are real powers. Volume two, Maker Girl and Professor Smarts: Beware the Evil Lair, seems to have more humor and science information to keep both your superhero, science experiment loving and humor reader entertained.
