The Invincibles Power Up

The Invincibles Power Up by Peter Millet, illustrated by Myles Lawford (Scholastic) PB RRP $12.99  ISBN 9781775435990

Reviewed by Wendy Haynes

The Invincibles Power Up is a graphic novel for 7 to 10 year old readers. In the beginning pages of the book, the reader is introduced to the characters and team that make up Team Two. Tana is the leader of the team and main character, and he wants nothing more than to be selected for Team One this year.

The story starts with the team members meeting for practice at the old Arakino sports stadium. First to practice after Tana is Scotty, who is a prankster and brings a lot of humour to the story. Muzza then shows up: he is the first in his family to take up competitive sports.

Tana had received a text from Zinnie and friend Andy who want to join the team, but when they turn up for practice, they are girls.

Tana leads the team through some practice drills, but the weather changes. Clouds become thick, heavy, and brooding. Before long strikes of lightening appear across the sky. And before the team knows it, they are blasted.

This blast gives them superpower, and they soon work out that their superpowers only last for as long as a football game -- eighty minutes. Even sheep can fly. Of course, they have fun exploring their newfound powers.

A big game is coming up between the All Greats and the Conquerors. But Tricky Ricky, a retired fullback and the coach of the Conquerors, plots with the help of A-Bots to take revenge on the All Greats.

Two Team, now The Invincibles, hear of Tricky Ricky’s plot and work together to save the day.

Peter Miller highlights the importance of working as a team and finding your own superpower. The story is easy to read and loaded with humour.  The black and white illustrations by Myles Lawford add depth to the story with wonderful, and someone fun images.