Even Superheroes Get Scared

Even Superheroes Get Scared is an adventure for young children to learn emotional regulation alongside superheroes. With a maximum of four sentences per page, Becker makes it easy for readers to follow along and relate to the characters. The superheroes, just like anyone else, did get nervous, were scared of bugs, and were afraid of the dark, but they overcame their fears. Becker challenges kids to consider alternative solutions in tight situations but ultimately encourages them to think things though and to be brave.

Kaban’s stunning illustrations add an extra layer of storytelling to Becker’s narrative. The superheroes are introduced on the end covers, and, based on their names and costumes, their super powers are quite distinguishable. Because Kaban has worked with big clients such as Disney, Marvel, and Nickelodeon, her invented superheroes create a sense of familiarity for readers. For example, Laserman has lasers as eyes, and Icky has webbing abilities coming from his wrists.

Becker and Kaban take what is common knowledge of what and who a superhero is, what a villain looks like, and they incorporate it all into a fun and witty story, teaching children how to face their fears. The adventures with these superheroes do not have to end as Even Superheroes Get Scared is part of a series with similar themes: Even Superheroes Have Bad Days and Even Superheroes Make Mistakes.