Super Duper Me, by Malcolm Mitchell/Illustrated by Deise Lino, (Aug. 2026, Orchard Books), $19.99, ISBN: 9781338225334
Ages 4-8
Theo’s the new kid at school and has trouble fitting in until a new school librarian arrives. Mr. Burton sees Theo when he feels invisible and invites him to his “Treasure Trove of Knowledge”; his “fancy-schmancy way of saying ‘the library'”. Burton tells Theo that he is never afraid because books give him wings: “They lift you up and show you how far you can fly”. Mr. Burton leaves special quotes on the bulletin board every day, allowing Theo to draw strength and confidence from books. The words lift him up and empower him, enabling him to make friends and share his own stories. Bold and bright illustrations attract a reader’s eye, and characters’ expressive faces are friendly and inviting. There are moving illustrations that celebrate self-confidence and the power of words; Theo basks in the warmth of his teacher’s support and is lifted up by the words from books. A strong story that brings home the power of books, the power of words, and the benefit of a good librarian! Back matter includes a warm author note. A recommended add to SEL collections.
Malcolm Mitchell is the rookie who helped the New England Patriots win Super Bowl LI. He’s also the founder of an initiative called Read with Malcolm, which introduces book ownership to students, and works to improve literacy in schools. Malcolm’s Share the Magic Foundation promotes the benefits of reading to kids in underserved communities. As the New England Patriots Summer Reading Ambassador, he encourages summer reading. Malcolm lives in Atlanta, Georgia.
Mom Read It 