H. L. Burke’s superhero adventure Power On splices the creative powers of Secondhand Lions, The Breakfast Club, and Sky High. Jake is convinced he’s a supervillain. If he can only escape this supervillain rehabilitation camp, he can return to his true family and his life of crime. Instead he’s forced to confront his beliefs as he works with his fellow superpowered teen villains who are learning to control their powers. His new friends could turn on him for their own ends, especially if he manages to change his villainous ways. Power On lights up an enjoyable superhero world, charging quickly toward themes of a man’s responsibility to himself and others.

Best for: Young-adult fans of redemption stories, superheroes, and coming-of-age tales.

Discern: Some abuse of power by law officers as well as emotional abuse by parents and adults.