The Bionic Boy

“Benji hates being the center of attention, and his limb difference invites plenty of scrutiny. But after Benji meets Staff Sergeant Dirk Snyder, a self-assured quadruple amputee who uses a bionic prosthetic arm, he realizes that getting hands of his own could make him a superhero: the Bionic Boy. Still, he wonders if he made the right decision, especially after an upsetting incident involving the family cat. Can Benji still be a hero? While his conflicting feelings about using prostheses realistically highlight issues such as identity and self-confidence, family and friendship are the story’s core. The loving support of Benji’s dads, his best friend, Sam, and his 7-year-old sister, Becka, who has Down syndrome, radiates throughout, and even a surly new neighbor, Izzy, has a soft side. . . . A feel-good story of family, friends, and self-confidence.” —Kirkus Reviews

“This is a tale about bravery and not merely living through but absolutely thriving against odds. Told in very short chapters, this will appeal to readers in upper-elementary and middle schools who enjoy realistic fiction and accounts of everyday heroes. For fans of Sharon Draper’s Out of My Mind, Cece Bell’s El Deafo, and stories that celebrate children with disabilities.” —Booklist

“This uplifting, feel-good narrative by Plourde is reinforced by the compassionate support of Benji’s family and friends, particularly from Snyder, whom [Benji] looks to as he begins to see himself in a new light.” —Publishers Weekly