SECRET IDENTITY (Shredderman #1)
by Wendelin Van Draanen
Illustrated by Brian Biggs
Knopf
ISBN: 0375823514
Ages 7-10
144 pages

• Read an Excerpt

Shredderman is the secret cyber-hero identity of Nolan "Nerd" Byrd, a fifth grade math whiz who can't keep his shoes tied. Inspired by his teacher Mr. Green --- who asks, "Is there something you feel angry about? An injustice you see in the world?" --- Nolan creates Shredderman to expose the bullying of Bubba Bixby. Bubba lies, cheats, steals and cuts in line. He is the terror of the school; not even the teachers or principal can control him.

Armed with a digital camera hidden in his backpack, Nolan quickly captures the evidence he needs. He then builds Shredderman.com, a website dedicated to exposing and humiliating Bubba. But having a secret superhero identity is only the beginning of the project. Nolan must figure out how to encourage people to look at his website without getting caught.

Shredderman transforms Nolan from nerdy victim into an innovative superhero. He utilizes such strengths as his computer and problem solving skills. He also overcomes weaknesses like sewing and climbing. One of the most memorable scenes in the book involves Nolan sneaking out of class, climbing on top of the school building and distributing leaflets advertising his website. As Nolan gains confidence, Bubba loses his power to intimidate.

Like other superheroes, Nolan is a loner. His secret identity protects him from Bubba retaliating, but it also means that he cannot benefit from the attention Shredderman gains. Nolan is lucky to have a number of supportive adults in his life who don't ask too many questions, including his parents and Mr. Green. What he lacks are friends. This is Shredderman's greatest weakness and hopefully it will be explored in Nolan's future adventures.

Wendelin Van Draanen's SECRET IDENTITY (Shredderman #1) is the first book in what promises to be a hilarious, original and action-packed series. It is the perfect size for young readers' hands and attention spans, and is enhanced by Brian Biggs's quirky, stylized illustrations. There is even a Shredderman.com website, though readers might be disappointed that it doesn't include Nolan's picture of "Bubba's Big Butt." The best thing about this story and Van Draanen's other books, including the marvelous Sammy Keyes mysteries, is that they are about children taking action on the issues that impact their lives.

   --- Reviewed by Sarah A. Wood

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