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Superhero
James Patterson

Superhero

Quick Answer

"Superhero" is an optional companion work. It can be read at any time, though it is usually best enjoyed after reading the first few core novels of the Middle School Series.

Quick Verdict

🟡 Optional side story — not required for main plot

âť“ Can I skip this book?
✅ Yes — Optional

This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.

Verdict Insight: While this novella provides deeper world-building, it is a standalone story and can be read at any stage.

Is this helpful?
2021103 ppNovellaOptional Side Story
Inner city middle school student Kenny Wright imagines himself as a superhero-but when he faces peer pressure and bullying, can he find his strength in real life? Kenny Wright is a kid with a secret identity. In his mind, he's Stainlezz Steel, super-powered defender of the weak. In reality, he's a chess club devotee known as a "Grandma's Boy," a label that makes him an easy target for bullies. Kenny wants to bring a little more Steel to the real world, but the question is: can he recognize the real strength and goodness inside himself? Or will peer pressure force him to make the worst choice of his life? Interspersed with fantastic illustrations and comic-book panels, this book aims to both entertain and to provoke dialogue about identity, belonging, and doing the right thing.
Next Recommended Book

Best Nerds Forever

Book #11 of 11 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

high Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for Middle School Series conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading Superhero?

This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.

Can I read Superhero before Middle School Rafe's Aussie Adventure?

Yes. Superhero is an optional side story and can be read at any time without spoiling the main series plot.

Is Superhero required reading for the Middle School Series?

No, it is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not essential to the central storyline.

What comes after Superhero in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Superhero is Best Nerds Forever (Book #11).