The Secret Super Powers of Marco

Ever since he was three and escaped through a window wearing a red cape, Marco has been convinced that he possesses secret powers that will save him from danger. As the new kid in a sometimes rough urban neighborhood, Marco has particular need of his secret powers--especially when he almost gets caught breaking off car antennas on the ``bad end of the street.'' Marco's direct first-person narrative conveys his personal take on his efforts to grow up to be the ``good person'' his mother wants him to be, but it loses focus in chasing several tangents. A major plot line centers on Marco's friendship with Tyrone, a bully in his class, and on the conflicts Marco faces when Tyrone is caught stealing from Marco's uncle. It is never entirely clear whether Marco's ``powers'' are indeed real or wholly imaginary, and references to them become irritating. The end result is a story that offers up more problems and themes than it can effectively handle. Ages 8-12. (June)