Powerless

Matthew Cody
48 pages1-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Middle Grade
Published in 2011

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Book Brief

Matthew Cody

Powerless

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2011
Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Action & Adventure

•

Fantasy

•

Science Fiction
Setting

Noble's Green • Contemporary

Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

•

Childhood & Youth

•

Self Discovery
First Publication Year

2011

Publisher

Knopf Books for Young Readers

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

800L

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Super Short Summary

Powerless by Matthew Cody follows 12-year-old Daniel Corrigan, who moves to the town of Noble's Green and discovers that some local kids have superpowers, which they lose at age 13 due to a dark entity known as the Shroud. Determined to uncover the mystery, Daniel, who has no powers, helps his friends battle the Shroud to save their abilities and their memories.

Adventurous

Suspenseful

Fantastical

Mysterious

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.1

4,806 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Powerless by Matthew Cody has been praised for its engaging narrative and well-developed characters, creating a captivating story that appeals to both young readers and adults. The plot, revolving around superpowers and heroism, is seen as imaginative and inspiring, though some critics point out occasional predictability and pacing issues. Overall, it’s a commendable read with broad appeal.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Powerless?

Readers who would enjoy Powerless by Matthew Cody are typically fans of middle-grade superhero narratives. They relish stories filled with adventure, mystery, and the exploration of unique powers, akin to Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson & the Olympians series and Brandon Mull's Fablehaven. Ideal for ages 9-12.

4.1

4,806 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

A 12-year-old boy who feels average and unremarkable until he meets the supers, a group of children with powers, and becomes involved with their secret world.

The leader of the supers who possesses flight and super-strength, admired by his peers but keeps his powers hidden from the outside world.

A super who shares the power of flight with Eric, known for her tough demeanor and quick action, representing a more volatile aspect of the group.

He has heightened senses and is recognized for his maturity and thoughtful approach, often serving as the group's assessor or voice of reason.

An ailing businessman who wrote the Johnny Noble comics and leads a secret life as a villain known as the Shroud.

A super with great physical strength, not part of Eric's group and known for using his abilities for self-serving purposes.

A member of the supers who can become incorporeal, valuing her powers but looking forward to a normal life beyond them.

Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Action & Adventure

•

Fantasy

•

Science Fiction
Setting

Noble's Green • Contemporary

Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

•

Childhood & Youth

•

Self Discovery
First Publication Year

2011

Publisher

Knopf Books for Young Readers

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

800L

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