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SMASH: Trial by Fire
Super strong. Super fast. Super young!
Andrew Ryan dreams of having the strength and abilities of his superhero idol, Defender. Then he could stand up to his big brother, face down the school bully, and never be afraid of anything--or anyone--ever again.
KA-BOOM! When he is clobbered by fallout from a blast that kills Defender, Andrew's wish may have just come true. Now it's up to him to protect the citizens of Seatown from thieves and thugs. Not to mention Magus, a fearsome villain who will stop at nothing to steal Smash's superpowers for himself! Andrew dons a homemade costume to hide his identity--and Smash is born!
But fighting crim isn't easy when you're in fifth grade. And it takes a lot more than superpowers to be a hero...
Andrew Ryan dreams of having the strength and abilities of his superhero idol, Defender. Then he could stand up to his big brother, face down the school bully, and never be afraid of anything--or anyone--ever again.
KA-BOOM! When he is clobbered by fallout from a blast that kills Defender, Andrew's wish may have just come true. Now it's up to him to protect the citizens of Seatown from thieves and thugs. Not to mention Magus, a fearsome villain who will stop at nothing to steal Smash's superpowers for himself! Andrew dons a homemade costume to hide his identity--and Smash is born!
But fighting crim isn't easy when you're in fifth grade. And it takes a lot more than superpowers to be a hero...
146 pages, Hardcover
First published September 10, 2013
About the author
Chris A. Bolton
2 books31 followersWriter/co-creator of the all-ages graphic novel Smash, Book One: Trial by Fire (Candlewick Press, 2013)—now in paperback—and its sequel, Smash, Book Two: Fearless, which Kirkus Reviews called "brisk, non-stop, chock-full of awesome exploits!"
Trial by Fire was a Junior Library Guild selection, Children’s Choices Book Award winner, and Oregon Spirit Book Award winner.
Trial by Fire was a Junior Library Guild selection, Children’s Choices Book Award winner, and Oregon Spirit Book Award winner.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 6, 2015
It's hard to be a superhero when you're still in elementary school and not allowed out past eight on a school night.
This was cute, but the story was not as strong as the artwork.
This was cute, but the story was not as strong as the artwork.
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July 30, 2015It's a WINNER! (Review, Q & A, and Giveaway on http://www.Whorublog.com - US only. Ends September 23rd, 11:59 P.M.)
Love the "wimpy-MG-boy-turns-into-a-superhero-by-incredible-circumstances," reminiscent of the best comic book heroes. This graphic novel is perfect for reluctant readers and comic book fans. The dialogue is spot-on and the graphics are fantastic and classic comic book, but with an updated, modern artistic flair. This belongs in school classrooms and libraries and is an excellent gift, especially for boys who don't necessarily like to read. They'll get sucked into the story because of the sharp wit and cool graphics. Readers will want more the second they reach the last page.
If I were to place a bet on Smash and his creators, I'd definitely wager that they'll become a "smashing" success!
Thank you to Candlewick for providing a review copy.
Love the "wimpy-MG-boy-turns-into-a-superhero-by-incredible-circumstances," reminiscent of the best comic book heroes. This graphic novel is perfect for reluctant readers and comic book fans. The dialogue is spot-on and the graphics are fantastic and classic comic book, but with an updated, modern artistic flair. This belongs in school classrooms and libraries and is an excellent gift, especially for boys who don't necessarily like to read. They'll get sucked into the story because of the sharp wit and cool graphics. Readers will want more the second they reach the last page.
If I were to place a bet on Smash and his creators, I'd definitely wager that they'll become a "smashing" success!
Thank you to Candlewick for providing a review copy.
April 28, 2015
Andrew accidentally ends up with his idols super powers and decides to make use of them. While trying to learn his limits he also has to evade his new archenemy Magus. What young boy doesn't wish for powers to defend himself and help others? I really like the artwork and love the facial expressions of the characters. Every kid needs a hero to look up to and I think Smash is as good a hero as any. He might be untrained and new at the job, but he shows all the good traits of a upcoming star. I think he's a great hero for younger kids to look up to. He's young and smart and just want to help make things better. Andrew steps up and does what needs to be done as soon as he realizes what he can do and that is something kids should want to be like. A fun read about a determined boy.
October 13, 2013
SMASH Trial by Fire is a webcomic now finally available in a bound copy. I read a lot of graphic novels, but most of them do not involve superheroes if I'm being honest. I was looking forward to SMASH because the main character is a young boy who gets these powers from an accident in which another hero is killed. I am reading the advance copy, which is not in color but it says the finished copy will be. I will probably read it again when it comes out because I am a sucker for full color graphic novels.
I could tell right away that SMASH would definitely be a hit with the boys at my school. Andrew is a fifth grade boy who happens to be running away from bullies, right into the area where Defender is fighting the evil Magus. In fact, Defender is defeated, his remains found in the wreckage. Andrew realizes later that he has somehow taken on his own superhero powers and decides to try and take Defender's place.
Even flying is harder than it seems and soon, his superhero name is deemed SMASH, as he is often seen smashing into a variety of buildings and objects. I thought it was fun to see Andrew try out his powers, while trying to save people from harm. There were a lot of hilarious scenes throughout the book and by the end, he realizes maybe he needs more help than he originally thought.
Final Verdict: Having enjoyed this book so much, I may need to start subscribing to the web comic so I can see what will happen next to SMASH! This is definitely a book you'll want to pick up for boys that love reading comics.
I could tell right away that SMASH would definitely be a hit with the boys at my school. Andrew is a fifth grade boy who happens to be running away from bullies, right into the area where Defender is fighting the evil Magus. In fact, Defender is defeated, his remains found in the wreckage. Andrew realizes later that he has somehow taken on his own superhero powers and decides to try and take Defender's place.
Even flying is harder than it seems and soon, his superhero name is deemed SMASH, as he is often seen smashing into a variety of buildings and objects. I thought it was fun to see Andrew try out his powers, while trying to save people from harm. There were a lot of hilarious scenes throughout the book and by the end, he realizes maybe he needs more help than he originally thought.
Final Verdict: Having enjoyed this book so much, I may need to start subscribing to the web comic so I can see what will happen next to SMASH! This is definitely a book you'll want to pick up for boys that love reading comics.
December 16, 2014
A great character/story that young readers will both relate to and fantasize about, drawn appealingly and told well.
Andrew is small for his age and picked on--or at least overlooked--by nearly everyone bigger, including the school bullies and his older brother. He dreams of having powers like Defender, the superhero he idolizes, so he could fight back. Then one day, out of the blue, a supervillain scheme goes wrong, leaving Defender dead and Andrew secretly given his powers.
Andrew suddenly has many new quandaries to face: Is he now responsible for fighting crime in Defender's place? But he can't really control his powers--his poor flying gets him the moniker "Smash," not to mention his fear of heights and vomit-inducing motion sickness--and doesn't know the first thing about dealing with criminals. And how can he keep his powers a secret? The temptation to use them on the bullies is overwhelming and, more importantly, the villain wants to find him to get back Defender's powers. And what about the police, which aren't too thrilled with his appearance, and the other heroes and villains that suddenly all want something from him?
Exciting, entertaining, and empathy-inducing.
Andrew is small for his age and picked on--or at least overlooked--by nearly everyone bigger, including the school bullies and his older brother. He dreams of having powers like Defender, the superhero he idolizes, so he could fight back. Then one day, out of the blue, a supervillain scheme goes wrong, leaving Defender dead and Andrew secretly given his powers.
Andrew suddenly has many new quandaries to face: Is he now responsible for fighting crime in Defender's place? But he can't really control his powers--his poor flying gets him the moniker "Smash," not to mention his fear of heights and vomit-inducing motion sickness--and doesn't know the first thing about dealing with criminals. And how can he keep his powers a secret? The temptation to use them on the bullies is overwhelming and, more importantly, the villain wants to find him to get back Defender's powers. And what about the police, which aren't too thrilled with his appearance, and the other heroes and villains that suddenly all want something from him?
Exciting, entertaining, and empathy-inducing.
September 20, 2013
I won a copy on Goodreads Firstreads.
Andrew Ryan is a typical 10 years old trying to survive 5th grade. His big concerns are homework, dealing with his older brother, and avoiding the class bully and his cronies. That is until the superhero, The Defender, is destroyed by the villian known as Magus. Andrew suddenly gains The Defender's powers of super strength, super speed, and the power of flight. Now he has to figure out how to fight crime with an 8 p.m. curfew.
This graphic novel was a lot of fun. The superheroes and villians are unique while reminding you of other well-known characters at the same time. The artwork is a blend of realism and cartoon style which fits perfectly with the story. Smash doesn't follow the trend of being dark and gritty of so many comics on the market now. It is light and fun for a pleasant change. It should appeal to a wide range of people of all ages. I look forward to more adventures of Smash.
Andrew Ryan is a typical 10 years old trying to survive 5th grade. His big concerns are homework, dealing with his older brother, and avoiding the class bully and his cronies. That is until the superhero, The Defender, is destroyed by the villian known as Magus. Andrew suddenly gains The Defender's powers of super strength, super speed, and the power of flight. Now he has to figure out how to fight crime with an 8 p.m. curfew.
This graphic novel was a lot of fun. The superheroes and villians are unique while reminding you of other well-known characters at the same time. The artwork is a blend of realism and cartoon style which fits perfectly with the story. Smash doesn't follow the trend of being dark and gritty of so many comics on the market now. It is light and fun for a pleasant change. It should appeal to a wide range of people of all ages. I look forward to more adventures of Smash.
October 5, 2013
I won a free black-and-white ARC of this book over on Booklikes and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. It was a quick read, and a good one. The story of a young boy who gets the chance to take the place of his favorite superhero might seem a bit old-fashioned, but the Boltons pull it off nicely. The art is a tad more manga than my tastes (I'm a Ditko-Sekowsky-Aparo-Newton-Colan kinda guy), but these two can actually tell a good comic story, unlike a lot of modern, photo reference-reliant artists.
I had been unaware of the webcomic before getting this book, but I'll certainly seek it out now, and the next volume of this series!
I had been unaware of the webcomic before getting this book, but I'll certainly seek it out now, and the next volume of this series!
September 9, 2013
See my full review and author Chris A Bolton's guest post here.
I loved this book! The action packed adventure of Andrew and his newfound powers are absolutely hilarious and keep you on the edge of your seat. I can't wait to see where Andrew's adventures take us next!
I loved this book! The action packed adventure of Andrew and his newfound powers are absolutely hilarious and keep you on the edge of your seat. I can't wait to see where Andrew's adventures take us next!
September 16, 2013
What I really like about this book is that it doesn't dumb down the material for the audience. This is a book clearly aimed at kids, but the writing, the plot, the dialogue, and the action are all worthy of the genre for readers of any age. Very much looking forward to the next volume!
Reminds me a bit of Takio by Bendis--also a truly all-ages book.
Reminds me a bit of Takio by Bendis--also a truly all-ages book.
June 6, 2018
This was great! Really loved the larger landscape format, as it suited the illustrations a lot better than the normal format. Smash is an awesome character, and I look forward to more of his adventures in the future!
May 19, 2014
It was awesome! There was a superhero called Defender, to save them from the bad guy, but he blew up in an explosion. Andrew got caught in it too. Then punches did not hurt very much, he could run super fast and could fly. Will he stop the bad guy? Find out in the book. READ IT!
July 28, 2014
This book is definitely one of my favorite books ever received from goodreads! everyone should own this cute little book its just so amazing!
December 8, 2013
First Reads Review - Smash: Trial by Fire by Chris A. Bolton and Kyle Bolton
This is, if nothing else, a quite attractive book, and I feel that, all things being equal, I would have liked this more if I were younger. For what it seems to be, it works, the story of a young boy becoming something of a superhero, learning that he needs to ask for help, etc., and yet this is also obviously geared toward younger audiences, and not in a way that it can still challenge adults. Don't get me wrong, the writing is fine, the art is solid, but the story and themes leave a little to be desired, though it's possible more will be done in future volumes to justify the choices made in this opening volume.
There is a sense of fun, of overcoming adversity, that makes this rather standard superhero fare. We have this boy who receives powers, who has to learn how to use them to do good. There is a villain who wants to stop him. There are enough other characters and plots that everything moves smoothly along. There is a bit of a question of why this story needs to be told when there are so many other superhero stories already in existence that take a more complicated look at what it means to be a hero and with great power comes great responsibility. Not that this book does a poor job of it by any means, but it is a very stripped down story, something that feels more like The Incredibles in how it takes the ideas of established superhero lore and twists it in a new way.
And like I said, the art is solid, the character design interesting, the look and feel of the world a bit cartoonish and fun. That while the main character is dealing with being bullied and growing up in a split household with an older brother who seems to be having some problems, it all has a strong foundation. The power set of the main character is very standard, though, strength and flight, and while that evokes what we think of when we think hero, it's not exactly something that lends itself to the most interesting of confrontations. The villains, too, are more cookie cutter than I would have liked, and while they work, they don't do anything new.
So in the end this is a comic for people perhaps not already into comics. It introduces some of the themes, shows some of the fun, but doesn't really get beyond that in the way that many other comic series have done, even ones geared toward children. So while I enjoyed reading this, and would recommend it, it isn't something that I'm super excited to read more of. It was good, but not great, and as such earns three out of five stars.
This is, if nothing else, a quite attractive book, and I feel that, all things being equal, I would have liked this more if I were younger. For what it seems to be, it works, the story of a young boy becoming something of a superhero, learning that he needs to ask for help, etc., and yet this is also obviously geared toward younger audiences, and not in a way that it can still challenge adults. Don't get me wrong, the writing is fine, the art is solid, but the story and themes leave a little to be desired, though it's possible more will be done in future volumes to justify the choices made in this opening volume.
There is a sense of fun, of overcoming adversity, that makes this rather standard superhero fare. We have this boy who receives powers, who has to learn how to use them to do good. There is a villain who wants to stop him. There are enough other characters and plots that everything moves smoothly along. There is a bit of a question of why this story needs to be told when there are so many other superhero stories already in existence that take a more complicated look at what it means to be a hero and with great power comes great responsibility. Not that this book does a poor job of it by any means, but it is a very stripped down story, something that feels more like The Incredibles in how it takes the ideas of established superhero lore and twists it in a new way.
And like I said, the art is solid, the character design interesting, the look and feel of the world a bit cartoonish and fun. That while the main character is dealing with being bullied and growing up in a split household with an older brother who seems to be having some problems, it all has a strong foundation. The power set of the main character is very standard, though, strength and flight, and while that evokes what we think of when we think hero, it's not exactly something that lends itself to the most interesting of confrontations. The villains, too, are more cookie cutter than I would have liked, and while they work, they don't do anything new.
So in the end this is a comic for people perhaps not already into comics. It introduces some of the themes, shows some of the fun, but doesn't really get beyond that in the way that many other comic series have done, even ones geared toward children. So while I enjoyed reading this, and would recommend it, it isn't something that I'm super excited to read more of. It was good, but not great, and as such earns three out of five stars.
December 1, 2013
I don’t read many graphic novels, but I’m happen I took the chance with this one.
I enjoyed the concept of having a ten year old character become a superhero. Most of the heroes of our modern mythology are in their late teens, at the youngest, and while that always brings with it real-life issues to go along with those of being a superhero, I think a ten year old can bring a fresh batch of obstacles to the mix. Andrew/Smash has to deal with a school bully, his older brother (also a, more mild, bully…like all brothers tend to be), and all the other “problems” of being young and not really fitting in. How can a kid that young juggle his normal life with his new superpowers? Well, this is something I hope future Smash books will explore.
In this first installment of the series, I felt that it was a strong début for the character and story. It’s a great origin story for Smash, with hints at many different sub-plots I can’t wait to see explored as well. I also liked the villain, Magnus. I see him as a strong and powerful foe. There wont’ be any easy battles for our young hero.
I think this, overall, is a great story with great artwork and while I feel it’s aimed at a younger audience (especially with today’s push toward educating kids about bullying), more seasoned superhero fans should enjoy this little guy. I’m looking forward to future Smash books.
I enjoyed the concept of having a ten year old character become a superhero. Most of the heroes of our modern mythology are in their late teens, at the youngest, and while that always brings with it real-life issues to go along with those of being a superhero, I think a ten year old can bring a fresh batch of obstacles to the mix. Andrew/Smash has to deal with a school bully, his older brother (also a, more mild, bully…like all brothers tend to be), and all the other “problems” of being young and not really fitting in. How can a kid that young juggle his normal life with his new superpowers? Well, this is something I hope future Smash books will explore.
In this first installment of the series, I felt that it was a strong début for the character and story. It’s a great origin story for Smash, with hints at many different sub-plots I can’t wait to see explored as well. I also liked the villain, Magnus. I see him as a strong and powerful foe. There wont’ be any easy battles for our young hero.
I think this, overall, is a great story with great artwork and while I feel it’s aimed at a younger audience (especially with today’s push toward educating kids about bullying), more seasoned superhero fans should enjoy this little guy. I’m looking forward to future Smash books.
Read
February 2, 2015A fun, quick, exciting read, fitting well into comic superhero tropes. With well-timed humor, it's just the speed for middle graders who will gobble it up. I just wish it didn't fail the Bechdel test so miserably: the book is almost entirely male, including the school and crowd scenes (there appears to be exactly one girl in the main character's classroom, and no female employees other than Mom in a hospital); the only supporting female character is Mom, who never interacts with any women or girls; all the other supporting characters, including sibling, friends, bullies, teachers, police officers, superheroes, and supervillains are male; the five panels (in a 146 page book) where female characters, who are extras, actually have speaking roles, they are victims whose one or two words or sentences are about the main character or another male superhero. I found it wearisome. The story has enormous potential. With so much talent, the author and illustrator should be able to fix this in the sequels that the story demands.
October 22, 2013
Andrew Ryan is probably like many kids. His parents are divorced and his mom works, so his older brother is often in charge. Since that means missing out on his own activities, brother Tommy sometimes takes his frustration out on Andrew. Andrew is also the target of bullies at school. He wishes he were more like his idol, local superhero, the Defender. But everything changes when Andrew gets hit with a blast of the Defender's powers that had been extracted by his arch nemesis, Magus. There's a new superhero in town, but what good are superpowers and the power to fly when you're afraid of heights? When you can't figure out how to stop? When you can't find the scene of the crime? And when you've just inherited Magus as your very own nemesis? This book was so much fun! It was a blast watching Andrew learn to deal with his newly acquired powers. The art is bright and expressive and there is tons of humor and kid appeal.
April 10, 2014
A great little story about a kid who winds up with super powers following a freak accident. Andrew idolizes the superhero Defender and dreams of becoming a masked avenger one day, too. But, when Defender is killed during a fight with his nemesis Magus, Andrew must take up the cause of this fallen superhero. Andrew is not an instant ace at crime fighting, though. He has trouble getting the hang of his new powers, and unfortunately is afraid of heights even though he can now fly. Will Andrew be able to get the hang of his new abilities in time to stop Magus? Readers will have to see in the first installment of this new graphic series.
This story makes use of comic book conventions without being overly cliched. Andrew is cute and easy to relate to. Even though he has super powers, he's awkward in his attempts to use them. But, his tenacity is endearing and readers will root for him throughout the story. For tweens.
This story makes use of comic book conventions without being overly cliched. Andrew is cute and easy to relate to. Even though he has super powers, he's awkward in his attempts to use them. But, his tenacity is endearing and readers will root for him throughout the story. For tweens.
April 23, 2014
I got an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher which, unfortunately, was in black and white. The actual book, however, is in full heroic color, which is important for the target audience. In this superhero graphic novel archvillain Magus has been losing to the Defender for years--both of them overly muscled stereotypes, which is perfect. It makes scrawny fifth-grader, Andrew, stand out in his absurdity. When Magus seeks to steal Defender's super powers the hero is no more, but the powers, instead of being transferred to Magus, go to much-bullied Andrew. Now he's learning to fly and trying to battle bad guys, all while staying under the radar of his mom and brother. There's plenty of action, lots of suspense, and something to appeal to just about everyone here. This is a fun new superhero that kids can really get behind.
October 25, 2013
Andrew Ryan dreams of being a superhero like his idol, Defender. But alas, he is just a small little guy that is picked on by a group of bullies. Until one fateful day they are in the wrong place (right place?) at the wrong time! Now Defender is gone and Andrew has all of his powers and strengths - except he still has a fear of heights which can be a stumbling block in soaring through the sky like a true superhero. Andrew jumps headfirst into battling bad guys while keeping his identity secret from his family and friends. This graphic novel is sure to capture the imagination of many youngsters who also dream of being super-powered. I thought it was fun and the artwork was great.
July 26, 2016
Andrew has always looked up to superhero, Defender, even dressing up as him on Halloween. When Defender is defeated by archenemy Magus, Andrew is inadvertently given Defender's powers. Wearing his homemade costume, he sets out to defend the innocent and bring evil-doers to justice - all the while trying to go to school, do his homework, and defend himself against the school bully.
Quite a fabulous graphic novel. I enjoyed it thoroughly and imagine that once it goes out, it won't sit on the shelf again for quite a while.
Quite a fabulous graphic novel. I enjoyed it thoroughly and imagine that once it goes out, it won't sit on the shelf again for quite a while.
November 4, 2013
The moment I came across this book I thought of my two sons. A little superhero of their very own to immense themselves in. The artwork helps to bring the characters to life and the many conflicts that our hero has to deal with provides examples of what immense fortitude can overcome. Hopefully the stories will be never ending. I am grateful for winning an advanced copy for my boys and know that Smash will be forever present in their bookcase.
October 22, 2013
Fifth-grader Andrew might dream of being like the superhero Defender, but in real life, he can’t even stand up to school bullies. Until, super-villain Magus manages to kill Defender, and all of his superhero powers fall onto a very unlikely hero. Andrew has to quickly figure out how to save the world, while keeping his newfound powers a secret. This is a super fun comic that will appeal to any kid who ever wished they were a superhero.
October 29, 2013
Fifth grade bully bait, Andrew Ryan, accidentally acquires the superpowers of his hero, Defender before he disappears. Even though he has a fear of heights, Smash, aka Andrew manages to stumble through a couple of rescues while figuring out how his power works. Unfortunately, so is Magus. This energetic graphic novel moves quickly and humorously with plenty of action and bad guys. Great addition to the elementary/ tween graphic novel collection.
May 26, 2014
Andrew is a pint-sized fifth grader who suffers at the hands of the local bullies, but he escapes in his fantasies about local superhero The Defender. When Andrew accidentally acquires superhero powers, he has to figure out not only how to fly straight but also what it really means to be a hero. Kids will love the high-octane, action-packed drama in this series opener.
November 4, 2015
This was adorable. I love a superhero story and this was just that for me. Not to dark or heavy, it is a children's book after all. While some of the story line felt a bit familiar (how many times have we seen a science experiment cause an accident with superheroic consequences?) it did not take away from the quirkiness of this particular tale.
October 29, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed Smash. It's fun, fast paced and includes great artwork. My favorite thing about this book is that it's completely clean and free of gratuitous violence, yet it's well made and engaging enough to keep any kid flipping the pages. Well done Bolton brothers.
Read
November 20, 2013I really liked this. Great graphics. I'm not sure why this "kid growing into his powers" story grabbed my attention but it did. It was well done with a good balance of explanation and mystery to keep one's interest.
December 2, 2013
Boy has powers of a superhero transfered to him when a villian's attempt to steal said powers goes wrong. Ends on a cliff hanger so there will be follow up. It was hard to tell at first if the superhero was real or a television character. Has potential for being a strong series.
November 6, 2014
Super Fun graphic novel. Who wouldn't want to become their superhero! My kid had to take it out of the library twice because he gave it back before I finished it. It says it is book one! Can't wait to see what SMASH will do in book two!!!
December 18, 2014
Read this book with my near-5-year-old boy and we both enjoyed it (though I enjoyed more of the subtext and irony re: superhero tropes while he took it at face value).
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews