Scholastic Book Review: Backstories - "Batman Gotham City’s Guardian"

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Submitted by S.J. Mitchell on Tue, 03/22/2016 - 20:36

Title: Batman: Gotham City’s Guardian

Author: Matthew Manning

Illustrator: Steven Gordon

Ages: 8-12 / Grade: 3-7

Retail: $5.99

Before you head out to the theaters to watch Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, take a look at the backstory for the mysterious Dark Knight Detective, Batman.

Scholastic books pulls back the curtain to reveal the backstory of the greatest detective in all of comics, in chapter form. With a forward by Gotham’s protector, that documents his path, the book will be revealing for your young reader. Nine short chapters provide insight on how Batman went from a boy fed with a silver spoon, to the feared vigilante and defender of Gotham!

There are profiles that introduce the reader to important characters in Buce Wayne’s life such as, Alfred Pennyworth. And of course where Bruce Wayne goes, Batman is just a Bat Signal away, so among those profiles are characters that important to his ‘other’ life as well, such as Robin and Batgirl. Villains round out the profiles with enigmatic foes that include The Riddler and Joker.

Author, Matthew Manning, does a masterful job of snaring the essence of what makes Batman one of the world's finest heroes. The book honors the iconic stories of the past, while telling them in a way children can understand. There's a clever balance of detail and brevity that allows your reader to become a fan, before boredom sets in. Illustrator Steven Gordon provides accompanying art that illustrates important moments and places as the story unfolds.

If you're looking to introduce your child to the world of superheroes, BATMAN: GOTHAM CITY’S GUARDIAN is an excellent way to get them started.

Grade:

4.5 / 5.0