Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite

Saygar the Superhero (Saygar Books Book 2) by Elizabeth Jurado is the perfect story to stir a child's imagination. Full of energy, heart, and unexpected twists, readers in grades 4-6 will gravitate toward this wild, fun story about Joseph and Saygar, and a Halloween plan gone wrong. Joseph inadvertently changes Saygar into a superhero, a kid-size ant, which causes headaches for Joseph. Headaches like trying to steer clear of the school bully, confronting an old curse, and a boat-load of problems. Joseph tries to protect Saygar, who really believes himself to be a superhero, but will it be enough? Add a 4-year-old cousin named Julia, and the problems multiply. This quirky adventure is full of surprises, secrets, and fun.

This great children's book works on so many levels. Having Joseph telling the story in the first-person gets you into the young mindset from the start, and you are instantly absorbed in what he's telling you. You get a real sense of Joseph's personality. Jurado doesn't talk down to her child audience, and that's refreshing. She uses current references as well as older ones and offers a lot for the reader's imagination to play with. Many funny observations are made by the characters, and there are tons of things going on that kids will love. I also appreciate the kids' individualism. These aren't cookie-cutter characters. They act and sound like real kids, even though they're in a fantasy situation. Some of them you like; others you don't. I also like how the characters experience various emotions that readers will relate to. There are also themes of acceptance, friendship, and overcoming self-doubt. The predicaments are funny, and illustrations are used to enhance the text. Saygar the Superhero by Elizabeth Jurado is a story that young readers will want to read more than once. And if you become a fan of this book, good news: This book's predecessor is called Saygar the Magnificent.