Super Soccer Boy and the Monster Mutants

Super Soccer Boy, also known as Harry Gribble, is back in the eighth and final volume in the series. When he was hit by lightning during an electrical storm, Harry was given super powers, which he uses to solve mysteries, as well as to score goals for the Middletown Mini-Stars. In this story, chemicals from a disused factory have caused mutations in surrounding plant life, which threatens to take over the town. The plants start to attack people, who then turn green and start behaving very strangely – taking root in parks, gardens, and even plant pots.

This book is nicely-paced for young readers. With plenty of action and witty illustrations that really add to the story, as well as three sections presented in comic book style, there is plenty here to hold children’s interest.

Super Soccer Boy is a rather suburban superhero, and so much the better for it, although he seems to lack the personal challenges that usually undercut a hero’s strength. An irritating sister or an unfair teacher might have stood in nicely for an arch nemesis.