How to be a Superhero

by Doctor Metropolis (Pseudonym), Barry Neville

Whether you've recently been bitten by a radioactive insect or just fallen into a vat of mysterious Chemical X, How to Be a Superhero is the only book you'll ever need. Written especially for newly superpowered citizens, this comprehensive handbook will help you:
- Identify and hone your unique superpowers
- Design a costume that says *No* to evil, but *Yes* to fashion
- Navigate all pertinent tax and liability issues
- Find the archenemy who's right for you

Filled with easy-to-use quizzes, helpful sidebars, and step-by-step graphics that will help you master the complexities of the superheroic career, this is the perfect book for lovers of comics and superhero movies as well as those who simply want to learn to use their powers for good.

Genres: Humor, Superheroes, Fantasy

210 pages, Paperback

First published November 30, 2004

Reviews

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really feel I can be a superhero now after reading this

[Adam Serafino · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is brilliant satire of all things superhero. Pure comedy.

[Jim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading How to Be a Superhero, I almost wish I didn't work for a company that followed strict OSHA standards. As the pentultimate "how-to" guide, How to Be a Superhero could walk me through the basics of becoming a superhero should I be bathed in toxic waste or exposed to massive amounts of radiation.

HTBASH (written by Dr. Metropolis) is a wealth of knowledge leading novice and would-be superheroes onto the path of becoming a righteous do-gooder. It starts out by helping you identify what type of superhero you are based on the powers you have. It goes on to assist new heroes with those things that are important and necessary, but are often rushed in trying out new powers. For example, the discussion of the UPS is invaluable. Your UPS is your Unique Personal Style - for a superhero, what makes you, you. It has 3 components - your name, costume, and origin story. No superhero is complete without spending valuable time putting these things together. How many superheroes throw together a costume, jot down a name and run out to fight crime, without spending time coming up with the proper superhero name, or picking out costume colors that best complement their skin tones? Using Dr. Metropolis's name generator, I've already determined that I would be called Cosmic Beast, Fearless Avenger of Virtue. Or should it be The Cosmic Beast? I haven't quite come to a conclusion on that one, yet.

Several other tests and indicators walk you through the basics. This book is a wealth of amazing tools no superhero (or potential superhero) should be without. From finding the right arch-nemesis for you to finding the right fit in a superhero team, HTBASH contains an incredible amount of valuable information.

And realizing the importance of diversity, Dr. Metropolis even finishes out with a bonus chapter for those who might be concerned that they might play for the other team. This section can help the potential super-villain with the lifestyle choices they may be facing.

[Julie H. Ernstein · Rating 3 out of 5]

Who is this Barry Neville identified as the author?! My cover says it's by Doctor Metropolis. This guide is full of loads of helpful tests and advice. For instance, it features the other SAT--that is, the Superhero Aptitude Test. It also lays out the nine super powers (i.e., flight, super-strength, invulnerability, psionic, magus, super-speed, transmutation, energy projection/manipulation, and crimefighter), exercises for developing such powers, as well as detailed discussion of the different classes of superhero. Very silly, very tongue-in-cheek, and certainly good for a few laughs.

[Thee_ron_clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this book up for some light reading and with the hopes of being somewhat entertained. I found myself entertained with a majority of this book due to the humor in it. It did have some dry patches in it, but they were tolerable. All in all, those looking to truly becoming a super hero might want to check into a mental institution or just read some comic books. Those looking for some amusement, check this out.

[Jeff Lowery · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely hilarious comedy. This book discusses virtually every topic that a super hero would need to consider if they really exsisted.

My only concern is the lack of any disclaimer. Anyone with half a brain would realize the fantasy of this book but what concerns me are those people who would buy this book. Most have trouble at times telling the difference between fantasy and reality.

Otherwise, very entertaining.

[Maura · Rating 2 out of 5]

The title really tells you everything you need to know about whether you'll like this book. it's a cute gift book -- with exclamation points in the title! for me, it provided a nice counterpoint to the epics i've been slowly reading thru this month. :)

[Frank · Rating 1 out of 5]

Quick little gimmick book. Nothing to see here, folks.