Suitabook

Sidekicks

Jack D. Ferraiolo

Reading: If puberty humour or sexual embarrassment could feel awkward, preview those passages or agree how to handle them. Afterwards, discuss whether Scott’s choices reflect courage, independence, loyalty or something less simple.
Themes: Loyalty and moral independence: Scott questions his long-standing role after signs suggest Phantom Justice may not be as good as he appears, and must decide whose side he is on. The premise treats loyalty as a problem to examine rather than a simple virtue; Scott’s final judgement and the story’s resolution remain unclear.
Identity and growing up: Scott has an isolated life as Bright Boy until secret identities, school relationships and an embarrassing costume incident disrupt his established role. The story appears to use superhero performance to explore adolescence and belonging, but it is unclear whether public recognition or private connection becomes the more valued outcome.
Romance across opposing sides: Scott and his former nemesis discover each other’s identities, interact outside battle and develop a romantic connection despite their mentors’ opposition. The book?s stance on this remains unclear.
Worth knowing: The book includes puberty-related embarrassment involving a tight costume, references to an involuntary erection, romance and sexualised publicity, alongside superhero fights and a frightening powerful villain.