About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their child is facing the impending loss of a father or close male relative to chronic illness. Set in 1950s Virginia, the story follows young Carter as he uses the mantle of a comic book superhero, Prince Namor, to process his helplessness and attempt to 'save' his dying father. It is a poignant, realistic exploration of anticipatory grief and the power of a child's imagination as a coping mechanism. While the subject matter is heavy, the bond between siblings and the historical setting provide a grounding sense of continuity. It is best suited for middle-grade readers who are ready for a serious, honest look at mortality and familial love, offering a safe space to discuss the complex feelings that arise when a parent is no longer the 'invincible' hero children expect.
