SuperHero ABC

McLeod translates his adult comic book renderings for the preschool crowd in this cleverly conceived ABC. Drawn in vivid bright colors that capture the eye, his heroes practically leap from the pages. He represents each letter of the alphabet with an original superhero who saves the day by committing heroic acts that begin with—what else?—that very letter (e.g., "Astro-Man is Always Alert for An Alien Attack"). One character is more inventive than the next, from the "Quiet Knight [who] Keeps Kindergarten Kids safe" to the superhero Volcano (sporting a V on his chest and V-patterned shorts; he "Vomits on Villains"). McLeod is not only a master at creating entertaining figures, but also at introducing youngsters to vocabulary words that go beyond the average spelling list, and with phrases ideal for introducing alliteration ("Water-Woman Weaves below the Watery Waves"). In a single bound, McLeod is sure to gain a new generation of comic book fans—and may well entertain his lifelong followers as they introduce their offspring to this clever primer. Ages 3-6. (Feb.)