Bucky and Stu vs. the Mikanikal Man

K-Gr 2—Two boys play superhero games, battling pretend monsters made of boxes, mops, and vacuum cleaners. Their most interesting enemy is "the Mikanikal Man," a metallic robot creature made out of cycle fenders, laser tubes, and Aunt Susie's iron, among other items. When a lightning strike brings the robotic being to life, the boys must battle a real bad guy. The battle seems lost until the Mikanikal Man gets hungry and the boys bring him batteries, motor oil, and other appropriate food, setting up the predictable but satisfying conclusion in which they make friends and the duo becomes a trio of super pals. Soft palette watercolor and pencil cartoons support the lighthearted tone. The slightly goofy, expressive faces of Stu and Bucky let readers know that it's all in fun, even during the "real" battles with the Mikanikal Man. Specific but not overdone details add charm, from the pencil ears and paper towel tube arms of "Baddie Boxman" to Stu's bow-and-plunger weapon. Well laid-out panels and insets alternate with spreads, pacing the action effectively. Narration and dialogue match that of superhero cartoons ("Is this THE END for our fearless heroes?"), and the hyperbole is neatly balanced by occasional asides ("What's a nemesis?" asks Stu), reminding readers that they are really just a couple of boys.