About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the pressure to perform or struggling to balance their public persona with their private insecurities. It is an ideal pick for the middle schooler who feels like they have to put on a brave face while hiding a world of doubt underneath. This graphic biography uses a high-stakes leap into a frozen river as a framing device to explore the complex inner life of Harry Houdini, touching on themes of Jewish identity, the weight of public expectation, and the grit required to master a craft. While it captures the thrill of magic, its real value lies in its grounded, humanizing portrait of a legend. It is most appropriate for readers aged 10 to 14 who are ready for a nuanced look at a historical figure, as it addresses real-world challenges like anti-Semitism and the intense physical toll of Houdini's work. Parents will appreciate how it demystifies greatness, showing that even the Handcuff King felt fear.
