Citation:  Boys of Steel:  The Creators of Superman by Marc Tyler Nobleman and Ross MacDonald, ill.  New York:  Random House, 2008.

ISBN: 978-0-375-83802-6

Annotation: Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster were two geeky boys until they created the world’s most famous comic called “Superman.” Their lonely adolescence, their success at DC comics, and their struggle to gain recognition is covered in this excellent book.

Media: Comic style done in pastel color with a lovely homage to the artistic style of the 1930’s and 1940’s.

Personal Rating: 5Q/5P

Curricular Connections:  This is a fascinating book about the creators of Superman. The art and text work well together and it would be a good read aloud for younger readers for a unit on Superheroes. Students could read a variety of comics and then research Siegel and Shuster. For older readers, it is an interesting book to discuss copyright and artistic license.  The story about how Siegel and Shuster sold their rights to Superman and then how they eventually got compensation is a fascinating one. Nobleman’s afterward explaining this legal battle would make a good topic to discuss for older readers.  The book also has excellent source notes and students could use this book for a unit on biographies as well.

Grade Level or Age Range: Grades 5-8

By: Joanne Maher July 24th, 2009

Boys of Steel:  The Creators of Superman by Marc Tyler Nobleman and Ross MacDonald, ill.  NY:  Random House,

     2008.  ISBN 978-0-375-93802-3

Written and illustrated in comic book style, Boys of Steel goes back to the roots of Superman, sharing the stories of its creators, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster.

Illustrations:  Retro Comic book style

Themes:  Biography, Superman, Comic Books

5Q/5P

ggolden

7/14/09