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  • Published: 18 November 2025
  • ISBN: 9780593111376
  • Imprint: Nancy Paulsen Books
  • Format: Hardback
  • Pages: 208
  • RRP: $35.00

The Bionic Boy

  • Lynn Plourde




The moving story of a superhero-loving boy born without hands who finds the hero inside himself

The moving story of a superhero-loving boy born without hands who finds the hero inside himself

Benji feels like he's had more than his fair share of good luck—so it's frustrating that his disability tends to make people think the opposite. Adopted from an overseas orphanage when he was four, he’s grown up surrounded by the love of his dads and little sister. But it seems like the only thing people notice about him is that he was born without hands. He wishes that it didn't bother him so much when people stare at him and that he could be as confident as the superheroes he’s obsessed with. Then Benji meets a real-life hero and begins to dream about new possibilities. Staff Sergeant Snyder is a quadruple war amputee whose comfort in his own skin inspires Benji. Plus, Staff Sergeant has fun with his prosthetic limbs, making Benji wonder if it’s time he becomes bionic. It takes a near disaster in the neighborhood with their pet cat to show Benji that bionic or not, he already has all the courage it takes to be a hero. After all, heroes walk among us every day, and if he just remembers to believe in himself, he can easily be one of them.

  • Published: 18 November 2025
  • ISBN: 9780593111376
  • Imprint: Nancy Paulsen Books
  • Format: Hardback
  • Pages: 208
  • RRP: $35.00

Praise for The Bionic Boy


PRAISE FOR MAXI'S SECRETS:
     “Plourde’s skillful blend of humor, pathos, and wisdom creates a story that begs to be shared with middle-grade students, who will fall in love with a deaf dog, her steadfast owner, and the rest of the characters who populate the novel . . . A story of love and friendship that deserves to join the ranks of other unforgettable canines and their owners.” —Booklist
     “Plourde clearly shows Maxi's remarkable influence on the lives of Timminy, his family, and his friends. This story is a tender reminder that perceived shortcomings don't define us and that the power of friendship can't be underestimated.” —PW
     “The secrets are little gems, providing food for thought . . . The characters are fully developed, and the delicate subjects of bullying and disabilities are dealt with deftly and with humor. The story would make a great read-aloud, as Plourde has created humorous and believable characters that readers will be cheering for . . . Will have wide appeal to dog lovers and those looking for a feel-good tale of overcoming adversity.” —SLJ
     “Funny, personable narrator. . . . A hopeful, satisfying conclusion. Bullying and disabilities are handled honestly . . . Perfect for reading aloud, any middle-level or younger student, especially dog lovers, will adore this humorous, heartwarming story of overcoming adversity.” —VOYA
     “Timminy’s coping strategies could help readers dealing with the loss of a pet.” —Kirkus
     "Pitch-perfect in every way and peppered throughout with wisdom, humor and a colorful cast of characters, Maxi’s Secrets is a must-read." —Books to Borrow, Books to Buy