Catwoman is on the prowl, with her eye set on the diamond-studded statue topping Oswald Cobblepot's (aka the Penguin) new building. Her late-night jewel heist is interrupted, however, by her old nemesis Batman, who has no intention of letting such a brazen theft take place. As the two grapple at perilous heights, they discover that the Penguin's bejeweled sparrow is more than decorative is also deadly! In an unexpected turn of events, Catwoman and Batman team up to stop the Penguin's dastardly plot against Gotham City. First in the publisher's new DC Super Heroes series, this brings the action and excitement of comics to early chapter books. Colorful full-page illustrations supplement the text, which is punctuated by boldly printed sound effects ("CRRREEEEEAK!") that add to the comic-book feel. This straightforward adventure will entice beginning and reluctant readers to the page through its use of beloved heroes and villains and its thrill-seeking spirit.

These three books present various superhero stories in chapter-book format. Simple story lines--featuring characteristic comic bookstyle onomatopoeia within the text--combine with rapid pacing and not-so-witty playful banter for slight but entertaining reads. Snazzy colors and familiar characters will likely appeal to reluctant readers. Superhero and supervillain glossaries are appended.

SONNEBORN . Supergirl vs. Brainiac . illus. by Luciano Vecchio. ISBN 9781434260154 . ea vol: 56p. (DC Superheroes Series). ebook available. glossary. websites. Stone Arch . 2013. lib. ed. $25.32. Gr 2-4 The strong female characters are the stars in these action-packed adventures based on the superheroes from DC Comics. In the first book, the feline supervillain is up to no good, attempting to steal a diamond bird statue from the top of one of Gotham City's towers. When she sees that the evil Penguin is using the statue to manipulate the brains of animals, turning them into killers, she must change her ways and help save Gotham City. In the second title, Supergirl's brain is overtaken by a Brainiac clone. She must struggle to regain control, or Earth will fall. Both of these beginning chapter books are written in simple language that describes the action, making them exciting and fast paced. Short, engaging stories and colorful, text-enhancing illustrations will make these books appealing to superhero fans and reluctant readers. Tina Martin, Arlington Heights Memorial Library, IL