Book Review: Side-Kicked

Book: Side-Kicked by Russell Brettholtz with illustrations by Miguel Mendonca and Bong Dazo and color by Sara Machjewski

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

It should come as no surprise to learn that within the superhero "community," egos run rampant. But how does all that free-flowing narcissism impact those just outside the spotlight? Chicago finds out when five of the city's most loyal Sidekicks finally grow tired of being disrespected by both the prima donnas they work with and the citizenry they strive to protect. And it's not like the Windy City needs yet another labor upheaval...


Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Oh, I really like this. In Side-Kicked, the sidekicks are tired of always being underappreciated by both the superheroes and the public. They work hard doing all that they can to look out for the heroes and protect the city but they get absolutely no respect.

After a few incidents that resulted in a rift growing between a few of the sidekicks and heroes, the sidekicks decide to go on strike. Although, the strike wasn't publicized their disappearance was beginning to make an impact. The superheroes were experiencing heavy losses especially once the supervillains starting to take advantage of strike.

I love the premise of this because I've noticed that even some comic book fans look down on sidekicks. I sometimes hear or read fans saying that no one cares about sidekicks but I've always been a fan of them.

This takes an interesting look behind the scenes into the lives of the superheroes. As much as I liked this I do wish that a female sidekick had been given a prominent role. There is diversity among the guys but it would have been nice to have had a female sidekick shown. There was mention of the female sidekicks forming their own group near the end but it would have been great if they were at least shown.