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Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
In Imaginary Heroes by Michael Seidelman, twelve-year-old Matthew’s world is shaped by the challenges of Tourette Syndrome, leaving him isolated and targeted by relentless bullies. He is different and often struggles with loneliness. To escape the painful experience of being alone and bullied, he takes comfort in the company of two of his imaginary friends: a brave, no-nonsense girl and a mischievous green monster. One day, as he walks home from school, he is pursued by bullies who never give up, but they all suddenly fall into an underground lair. This could have been one of Mathew’s imagined worlds, except that the danger is real, and a breathing, dangerous creature closes in on them. To survive, they will have to put aside their differences and work together or perish at the hands of the thing pursuing them.
To say that Imaginary Heroes is an imaginative and beautifully executed book for children is an understatement. I enjoyed how well the author creates young Matthew's inner world, carefully crafting every detail of his condition and showing how it affects his relationships in school. Michael Seidelman discusses bullying, inviting young readers to consider its implications. The plot features compelling points, and the pacing is fast. The characters are well-drawn, especially Matthew, living with a condition that feels like a curse. The story builds steadily, pulling readers into a world of danger where the young characters realize that teamwork and inclusion are vital to their survival. This well-written story will delight young readers and help older readers understand what bullying does to the vulnerable and those who are different. It is a delightful read.
