Super Human

Carroll's alternate version of our world includes superpowered heroes and villains, but even they are falling victim to a global epidemic. Or at least the adults are—teenagers, superhuman or not, are immune. So when a group called the Helotry plans to resurrect an ancient, invincible superhuman named Krodin, the only people in their way are a handful of teenagers. These include telekinetic Roz; superstrong Abby; Thunder, who manipulates sound waves; and a con artist named Lance. But they have little experience using their powers, and none working as a team. Balancing abundant action with moments of introspection, Carroll's (the Quantum Prophecy trilogy) exuberant prose is just right for setting, story, and characters alike—this is basically a novel-length superhero comic, sans illustrations, and should easily appeal to fans of the X-Men, Justice League, etc. The young heroes are both brave and terrified, often acting solely because it's the only way to save their families. They're clever, yet make mistakes, which casts them in a more realistic light. Ages 10–up. (May)