Becoming Bionic and Other Ways Science is Making Us Super by Heather Camlot, illustrated by Victor Wong. Owlkids, 2023. 9781771474610
Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 5
Format: Hardcover
What did you like about the book? This book shows kids how some of the most common superhero abilities may already be reality, may become reality, or why they will likely not be achievable. In each section, kids are introduced to advancements thus far and future technology. Super Parts tells the history of replacement body parts: toes, arms, legs, etc., as well as possibilities for the future. Super Flight relates the advancement of gliders, jet packs, hoverboards, and more. Super Sight introduces how we have already improved sight, telescopes, eye replacement procedures, night vision technology, x-rays and what’s still to come. Other sections cover Super Strength, Super Brains, and Super Survival. There are also tidbits about how other creatures already possess some superpowers, how birds are able to fly, how others camouflage, regenerate, and more. Vibrant, detailed illustrations make it easy for kids to envision these historical discoveries as well as future possibilities.
In the conclusion the book also brings morality into the question. Are these advancements moral? Where is that line? Who determines where the line is? The book also has a bibliography followed by a glossary.
Anything you didn’t like about it? Nothing at all, it was really great!
To whom would you recommend this book? Children ages 6-12, especially those who like superheroes or technological advancements.
Who should buy this book? Elementary schools, middle schools, public libraries, and day-cares.
Where would you shelve it? jNon-fiction
Should we (librarians/readers) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? Near the top
Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City and State: Vicky Tandy, Athol Public Library, Athol, MA
Date of review: July 18, 2023
Youth Services Book Review 
You must be logged in to post a comment.