Book Review: Even Superheroes Have Bad Days (Superheroes Are Just Like Us)
Even Superheroes Have Bad Days: A Heartfelt Lesson in Emotional Resilience
Introduction: Superheroes Are Just Like Us
Imagine a world where caped crusaders and masked vigilantes don’t just battle villains—they battle bad moods, frustration, and overwhelming emotions, just like the rest of us. That’s the brilliant premise of Even Superheroes Have Bad Days (Superheroes Are Just Like Us) by Shelly Becker, a delightful and insightful children’s book that normalizes big emotions while teaching healthy coping mechanisms.
With vibrant illustrations by Eda Kaban and rhythmic, engaging prose, this book isn’t just for kids—it’s a gentle reminder for adults, too, that even the strongest among us have moments of weakness. Whether you’re a parent looking for a way to discuss emotions with your child or a superhero fan who appreciates a fresh take on the genre, this book delivers humor, heart, and wisdom in equal measure.
Plot Summary: What Happens When Superheroes Lose Their Cool?
The book opens with a simple but powerful question: What do superheroes do when they’re having a bad day? Instead of unleashing their powers in destructive ways—like hurling trains in frustration or melting buildings with heat vision—they find healthier outlets for their emotions.
Through a series of playful, exaggerated scenarios, Becker shows how superheroes could react poorly (and humorously) to bad moods but instead choose restraint and constructive actions. They might want to stomp and roar, but instead, they take deep breaths, help others, or channel their energy into positive deeds. The narrative doesn’t just preach—it entertains, making the lesson stick through humor and relatability.
Character Analysis: Superheroes with Emotional Depth
While the book doesn’t follow a single protagonist, the collective cast of superheroes serves as a metaphor for all of us. Each hero represents a different way emotions can manifest—anger, sadness, frustration—but they all share one thing in common: self-awareness.
What makes these characters special isn’t their superpowers but their ability to choose how they respond to adversity. They’re not perfect, and that’s the point. By showing superheroes struggling with ordinary emotions, Becker dismantles the myth that strength means never feeling weak.
Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Rhyme, Rhythm, and Relatability
Becker’s writing is crisp, rhythmic, and engaging, making it perfect for read-aloud sessions. The rhyming structure keeps the pacing lively, while the repetition of key phrases (“They COULD super-pout, they COULD super-shout… but they DON’T!”) reinforces the book’s central message.
Eda Kaban’s illustrations are bursting with energy, color, and expressive characters. The exaggerated facial expressions of the superheroes—whether scowling, sulking, or sighing—make their emotions instantly recognizable to young readers. The visual humor (like a hero accidentally freezing a playground in frustration) adds another layer of engagement.
Themes & Deeper Meanings: Emotional Intelligence for Kids
At its core, Even Superheroes Have Bad Days is about emotional regulation and resilience. It subtly teaches:
- Emotions are normal—even superheroes feel them.
- Power comes from self-control—not just physical strength.
- Helping others can help you feel better.
The book also challenges toxic masculinity in a kid-friendly way. Superheroes are often portrayed as stoic, unshakable figures, but here, they’re allowed to feel—and that’s okay. It’s a refreshing take that encourages emotional honesty.
Personal Reading Experience: Why This Book Resonates
As someone who grew up idolizing superheroes, I loved seeing them portrayed with such vulnerability. Reading this to my niece, I watched her eyes light up at the idea that even her favorite heroes have tough days—just like her. The book sparked a great conversation about how she handles her own frustrations.
What struck me most was how universal the message is. Whether you’re 5 or 35, we all have moments where we want to “super-stomp” the world. The book doesn’t judge those feelings—it just offers a better way forward.
Comparison to Other Books in the Genre
Fans of The Bad Seed by Jory John or Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang will appreciate this book’s similar approach to emotional literacy. However, Even Superheroes Have Bad Days stands out by using the superhero trope to make the lesson feel fresh and exciting.
Unlike more abstract emotional-regulation books, this one keeps the tone light and fun, making it easier for kids to absorb the message without feeling lectured.
Strengths & Minor Weaknesses
Strengths:
✅ Relatable & Engaging – Kids love superheroes, and seeing them struggle makes emotions feel normal.
✅ Humor & Heart – The playful tone keeps the lesson from feeling heavy-handed.
✅ Stunning Illustrations – Eda Kaban’s art is dynamic and full of personality.
✅ Great Read-Aloud Flow – The rhyming text makes it fun for parents and teachers to perform.
Minor Weaknesses:
❌ Somewhat Predictable – If you’ve read similar books, the structure may feel familiar.
❌ Could Dive Deeper – A few more examples of coping strategies might have been helpful.
Who Should Read This Book?
- Parents & Educators – A fantastic tool for discussing emotions with kids.
- Superhero Fans – A fresh, humanizing take on classic hero tropes.
- Kids Ages 4-8 – The perfect age range for the book’s message and humor.
Memorable Quotes & Passages
“When superheroes are sad, when they’re mad, when they’re scared… They could super-pout, they could super-shout… but they DON’T!”
“They slow down inside… and remember their pride. They save the day in a different way!”
Cultural & Historical Context
In an era where mental health awareness is growing, this book is a timely addition to children’s literature. It aligns with modern parenting approaches that emphasize emotional intelligence over suppressing feelings.
Final Verdict: A Must-Read for Emotional Resilience
Even Superheroes Have Bad Days is more than just a children’s book—it’s a conversation starter, a comfort, and a celebration of emotional strength. With its witty writing, stunning art, and powerful message, it’s a book that belongs on every child’s shelf.
đź”— Get the Book: Amazon
Discussion Questions for Readers:
- How do you handle a bad day?
- Which superhero’s reaction did you relate to the most?
- What’s another way superheroes (or kids) could cope with tough emotions?
Have you read this book? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🚀
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