Dave Whamond – illustratör

When Nick signed up to be a superhero, it seemed like a terrific idea. He was flattered to be chosen by Super Fantastic Guy — picked for his intelligence, his investigative skills and his super-amazing hearing abilities. But as Super Fantastic Guy’s assistant, Nick (who, by the way, hates being called a sidekick) didn’t realize that he would have to do all of the work — and get none of the credit. All Nick wants is an opportunity to prove himself. So, when he overhears a group of criminals planning an enormous bank heist, he knows his big chance to save the day has finally arrived. Or has it?

With a fresh take on the ever-popular theme of superheroes, award-winning author and illustrator Dave Whamond’s graphic novel is the perfect adventure for emerging readers. Whamond’s wacky sense of humor and illustrative talent are on full display in this book’s laugh-out-loud, comically irreverent tale, while the twists and intrigues of the plot keep the pages turning — fast. Nick is a sympathetic character whose situation will resonate with any child who knows someone who likes to steal the limelight or take credit for the work of others. Nick’s approach and coping style, along with the support of his best friend, Tess, speak to young children’s budding self-awareness and social development. This book also works for character education lessons on initiative, empathy and perseverance.

The fun is out of this world in this laugh-out-loud graphic novel about an alien, government agents and the unexpected power of pizza.

Nate’s on a mission to Earth from the planet Vega. His goal: eat pizza! Luckily, soon after he crash-lands on Earth he meets Fazel, who helps him create a disguise, learn the ways of Earthlings and, most importantly, stuff himself with pizza! Nate quickly discovers there are lots of things to love about Earth and Earthlings besides pizza. He’s having a blast! There’s only one problem. Two Men in Beige (government agents) are desperate to capture him and bring him to their lab — and they’re starting to close in. Will Fazel and Nate manage to elude the Men in Beige while they find fuel for Nate’s spacecraft so he can head home? And will Nate have had his fill of pizza by then?

Here’s a sidesplittingly funny graphic novel from multiple-award-winning writer, illustrator and cartoonist Dave Whamond. With its irreverent humor and high energy, it’s a perfect pick for emerging readers. Along with the fun, the lovable main character models an eagerness to learn new things and broaden his horizons and, together with Fazel, is able to look past surface differences to find friendship and a shared sense of adventure. There are terrific character education lessons here on adaptability, inclusiveness (even of “aliens”) and teamwork.