Mighty Boy

A boy who wins the chance to live out his fantasy receives a good dose of reality as part of the prize in Sonenklar's (Bug Boy; Bug Girl) brisk and breezy novel. Howard Weinstein and his family have just moved to New York from California--a transition he wishes they had never made. As the new kid in fourth grade, he faces some tough adjustments, including dealing with obnoxious bully Eddie Gervinsky. Luckily, Howard can escape everyday at four o'clock when he tunes in to Mighty Boy and imagines himself in the world of his favorite superhero. He belongs to the Mighty Boy Boys' Club, eats Mighty Bites cereal and, best of all, his essay on ""What Mighty Power Is the Most Valuable and Why?"" wins him a guest role on the TV show. But when Howard finally meets Mighty Boy in person, he realizes his on-screen hero is an ordinary kid who has fears and weaknesses like everyone else. The tables turn when a Mighty Boy location shoot goes awry, and Howard has a chance to exhibit some super skills of his own. Sonenklar's snappy writing and clever plot twist will keep kids turning the pages. Howard's tale may even provide young TV junkies with some food for thought. Ages 8-12. (Oct.)