Craig Cormick’s Superheroes for a Day is a refreshing and heartfelt tale that showcases the power of friendship, bravery, and the unique abilities of three autistic children. The plot follows Max, Daniel, and Natalie as they embark on a mission to save their school from an unthinkable disaster: never-ending maths lessons. Told with warmth and humour, this fast-paced adventure offers a rarely seen perspective, normalising the experiences of autistic children in a fun and engaging manner.
The plot centres around the trio’s quest to solve a very real crisis— the lost key to the PE shed. With no footballs or sports equipment, the children face the dreaded alternative of more (and extended) maths lessons. However, Max, Daniel, and Natalie—each with their own unique talents—step up to save the day. Max’s photographic memory, Natalie’s incredible puzzle-solving skills, and Daniel’s extensive knowledge of dinosaurs might not seem like typical superhero traits, but they prove to be just the superpowers needed to tackle the problem. Together, they navigate cranky teachers, school bullies, and their own inner tensions as they try to pull off what seems like an impossible mission.
Cormick beautifully captures the nuances of neurodiversity in his portrayal of the three main characters. Max’s heightened memory, Natalie’s fast thinking, and Daniel’s passionate interests are treated not as quirks or obstacles but as strengths. The story does a brilliant job of showing how what makes these characters different is also what makes them special. Their courage in stepping out of their comfort zones and their growing confidence in their abilities sends a powerful message to readers, autistic and neurotypical alike: differences should be celebrated.
The writing is accessible, with a large, clear font and black-and-white illustrations (both of which support the understanding for some neurodiverse readers) that complement the story perfectly. The narrative voice is lively, pulling readers in and making it easy for them to relate to the characters. Cormick’s decision to show the story through the eyes of autistic children offers a unique and important perspective, one that fosters understanding and empathy for children who are often seen as “uncool” because of their differences.
Overall, Superheroes for a Day is an empowering, fun, and enlightening read. It successfully bridges the gap between adventure and advocacy, offering readers a heartwarming story about friendship, resilience, and the true meaning of being a hero. This book is a must-read for young readers, educators, and anyone looking for a story that champions diversity and celebrates what makes each of us special.
Reviewer: Chris Reed
EK Books