Leon: Worst Friends Forever

Gr 3-8–Leon is back and ready to fight elementary school crime in this new installment of Nicholas’s graphic novel series focused on life as a fifth grade superhero. With the principal at his heels, Leon goes to great lengths to fight the bullies at recess. Leon’s inflated sense of self-assurance results in him taking his pledge to defend his peers too seriously, overlooking the potential consequences for himself and others. While he’s figuring out how to make amends for those he has hurt, he forges a friendship with Clementine, the daughter of two fame-obsessed superheroes. Readers follow Clementine’s experiences as her parents force her to be on a reality show. This action-packed graphic novel is inclusive, relatable, and heartwarming. It serves as a reminder that despite apparent differences, people are not so different from one another. Both protagonists experience personal growth and discover strategies to become their best selves. The illustrations vividly capture the adventures and tone of each scene. The varying panel shapes and sizes will keep readers engaged and connected with the dialogue on each spread. The diversity of the families and characters provide relatable experiences for a wide audience.