Reviewed by Vivian Santos for Readers' Favorite

Persevere by Greg Ramsay is a superhero story with a strong message about turning weaknesses into strengths. The story follows different protagonists, but mainly Dave, a boy who acquires superpowers when his dad gives him and other family members disks that mysterious aliens drop around the city. Much of the story centers on a camp where Dave and different generations of superheroes, along with their children who can inherit their abilities, help kids with disabilities discover ways to use their unusual powers. Some of these powers are especially funny. One girl, for example, can shoot out huge amounts of snot and eventually learns to use her ability to slow down enemies and protect others. The author created a very interesting world full of action, family relationships, uncommon abilities, time travel, and heroes who face personal challenges while learning how their differences can become strengths.

What I liked most about Persevere was how fully people with disabilities are included in the story. They aren't just in the background; they matter to the story. That was really new to me because it is not something I see very often in superhero books: people with disabilities were saving others, not being saved. I also appreciated that the characters aren't portrayed as flawless; they are very human. They make mistakes, they have regrets, and some of them have mental health issues and friends and family issues like everyone else. That made them feel more real, and the concepts of acceptance and personal growth work better. I also enjoyed Dave’s ability to find strengths in situations that might initially seem like weaknesses, while his relationship with James adds warmth and a sense of brotherhood. Greg Ramsay has created a superhero universe with many characters, generations, and major events, while keeping a positive message about accepting differences and discovering the value in what makes each person unique.