Just Like Click

by Sandy Grubb

Nick Townley has lived his entire life— all eleven years— at Black Butte Ranch, nestled in the foothills of the snow-capped Cascade Mountains. While his parents push him to study, practice sports, and make friends, Nick prefers to retreat into his superhero universe and create exciting Adventures of Click comics. When a string of robberies threatens Dad’ s job, forcing them to move across the country, Nick’ s world implodes. He loves his home, and what will he do about the $237,000 in cash under his bed that Great Gramp gave him before he died? Desperate to stop the move, Nick steps off his comic book pages and ventures into the night as Click, an undercover superhero. Catching thieves would be a lot easier if he had actual superpowers. When three new kids discover his identity and want to join him, Nick vows to stay undercover… until he realizes even a superhero needs friends. But can he ask them to put their lives in danger to save his home? What would Click do?

Genres: Middle Grade, Childrens

188 pages, Paperback

Published April 16, 2024

About the author

Sandy Grubb's debut novel won the esteemed Kraken Book Prize, recognizing finely crafted middle grade fiction. She and her husband live near Portland, Oregon.

Reviews

[Jamie Johnson Leach · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a bad friendship story at Black Butte Ranch in Oregon!

[Jillian Torassa · Rating 3 out of 5]

The ending was probably my favorite part. It was sweet with a nice message. However, the rest of it was a hard sell. I have a just-graduated-5th-going-into-6th-grade-after-summer boy at home, and everything that Nick and his friends did was not only unsafe but unbelievable, especially comparing them to my own kid. I've read other middle grade books where I've needed to suspend my disbelief, but this was too much for me. I do think it would appeal to its target audience, however. And I love that it's set in Oregon!

[Kimberly Kenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this humorous and heart-warming story of a boy who wishes he were someone else, Sandy Grubb deftly captures the pangs and pitfalls of early adolescence exacerbated by the complications of a family in transition. Still grieving the loss and companionship of his great-grandfather, Nick struggles to fit in with the cool kids at Black Butte Ranch and live up to his dad’s desire for him to be the best athlete. If only he could be as colorful and powerful as the Click superhero comics he’s created! The author paces the tension well as we hang on each choice Nick makes when he swoops in to save the lives of others even as his own life seeps slowly into a black hole. With a cast of endearing characters of all ages and a setting rich with beauty and danger, Sandy Grubb has crafted a story that middle-grade kids will relate to and remember.

[Tonja Drecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some people are born to be superheroes even when they answer the calling at eleven-years-old.

Nick can't think of a better place to live than the Black Butte Ranch, where forests surround him and freedom abounds. If it wasn't for his parents constant tug-of-war to mold him into a genius or amazing athlete (neither of which he has the talent for), his life would be great. Oh, and the friends. He has plenty of them, but his parents don't think it's healthy for him to hang around elderly neighbors all day. But then, they don't know his secret. His passed-away grandfather has given him the task to watch out for these friends and even left tons of cash under Nick's bed to aide them in paying the bills. Nick takes his calling to heart and sneaks out at night to secretly help those at the Ranch, animals and humans alike. When thieves ruin his father's job, his parents announce that it's time to move away...which is a catastrophe for Nick. Add that a mysterious girl seems to have discovered his secret 'superhero' alter-ego, and Nick finds himself sinking fast. If only he had real superpowers, he might be able to fix everything, but those only exist in the comics. While he might have a superhero heart, he's knows he's still just Nick.

This book is taking a spot on my possible-favorites-of-the-year list. Nick is such an ordinary kid, who's stuck between his dreams and those his parents have for him. It's hard not to groan and sigh right along with him as they add extra practice sessions or 'help' for things he definitely doesn't want...never with bad intentions. Just ignoring him and his capabilities completely. The frustration comes across well and is easy for readers to connect with. Then, there's the thoughts of his grandfather, which are very warming and inspirational. But then, there are many amazing relationships in this read. Nick's amazing concern for the elderly neighbors beam with goodness pure. Yet, he's not a perfect person, either. His 'nightly' escapades are not something any of the adults would find good. And it's this that lets readers' own imagination and desires soar. Nick leads a secret life, an exciting one. Better yet, nothing Nick does is impossible. Risky? Definitely. But kids can picture themselves in each situation. Although many will hope never to face some of the deadly situations he does.

The author has also added a comic sequence at the beginning of each chapter from Nick's comic creations surrounding his imaginary superhero, Click (hence, the title of the book). These slide along in a general theme with the main plot, but add humorous or thoughtful twists along the way. Plus, they are fun.

Summed up, this is an exciting read, which does a masterful job at weaving imagination, adventure, and heart, while demonstrating that kids can make a huge difference, too. It inspires readers to be superheroes too.
I received a DRC and was surprised how much I was drawn into this tale.

[Tonja Drecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some people are born to be superheroes even when they answer the calling at eleven-years-old.

Nick can't think of a better place to live than the Black Butte Ranch, where forests surround him and freedom abounds. If it wasn't for his parents constant tug-of-war to mold him into a genius or amazing athlete (neither of which he has the talent for), his life would be great. Oh, and the friends. He has plenty of them, but his parents don't think it's healthy for him to hang around elderly neighbors all day. But then, they don't know his secret. His passed-away grandfather has given him the task to watch out for these friends and even left tons of cash under Nick's bed to aide them in paying the bills. Nick takes his calling to heart and sneaks out at night to secretly help those at the Ranch, animals and humans alike. When thieves ruin his father's job, his parents announce that it's time to move away...which is a catastrophe for Nick. Add that a mysterious girl seems to have discovered his secret 'superhero' alter-ego, and Nick finds himself sinking fast. If only he had real superpowers, he might be able to fix everything, but those only exist in the comics. While he might have a superhero heart, he's knows he's still just Nick.

This book is taking a spot on my possible-favorites-of-the-year list. Nick is such an ordinary kid, who's stuck between his dreams and those his parents have for him. It's hard not to groan and sigh right along with him as they add extra practice sessions or 'help' for things he definitely doesn't want...never with bad intentions. Just ignoring him and his capabilities completely. The frustration comes across well and is easy for readers to connect with. Then, there's the thoughts of his grandfather, which are very warming and inspirational. This is only one of the many amazing relationships in this read. Nick's amazing concern for the elderly neighbors beam with goodness pure. Yet, he's not a perfect person, either. His 'nightly' escapades are not something any of the adults would find good. And it's this that lets readers' own imagination and desires soar. Nick leads a secret life, an exciting one. Better yet, nothing Nick does is impossible. Risky? Definitely. But kids can picture themselves in each situation. Although many will hope never to face some of the deadly situations he does.

The author has also added a comic sequence at the beginning of each chapter from Nick's comic creations surrounding his imaginary superhero, Click (hence, the title of the book). These slide along in a general theme with the main plot, but add humorous or thoughtful twists along the way. Plus, they are fun.

Summed up, this is an exciting read, which does a masterful job at weaving imagination, adventure, and heart, while demonstrating that kids can make a huge difference, too. It inspires readers to be superheroes.

I received a DRC and found this to be a very engaging read.

[LitPick Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nick had always been very close with his grandpa, or Great Gramp as he liked to call him. Great Gramp understood him in a way his parents didn't and loved him as he was, even if he wasn't a great soccer player like his dad and liked to make comics instead of study. Nick loves to write and illustrate comics featuring the superhero Click, who he made up with his grandpa. After his grandpa died, Nick keeps his legacy going by helping the elderly in his town, the way his grandpa would have. He helps them with chores around the house and spends time with them. Inspired by the heroes in the comics he likes to read and write, Nick decides to go on missions around town, helping with things like a lost parrot and a raccoon infestation. Nick wants to help people the way superheroes do, so he decides to act brave the way Click does. But when his dad tells him that they may have to move, Nick feels that he will lose the only remaining connection he has to his grandpa. Thieves have been stealing from his dad's lumberyard business and he no longer has enough customers, so Nick's family needs to move to his Uncle Clyde's over 3000 miles away. Nick knows that he can't move; so many people are counting on his help. Nick knows that if he catches the lumber thieves, his family will not have to move. Will he be able to pull off his biggest mission yet?
Opinion:
I really enjoyed reading this book! The first thing I liked was how there was a black-and-white comic strip at the start of every chapter that followed the style of traditional superhero comics. It was cool to see how the comics related to the story and how they added a superhero adventure aspect to it. The story was very suspenseful, and I liked how it moved at a fast pace with Nick completing multiple missions throughout the book. I think this made the story more engaging as there were multiple plots, such as Nick helping out around the town while also trying to save his dad's business. I really liked how we got to see Nick's character change through the story. He started as a shy kid who mostly only talked to the elderly folks he helped. But at the end of the story, he realized how courageous he was and made many friends. Overall, this was a story full of adventure, kindness, and friendship, and I recommend this book to all readers! This book is also the perfect length for readers who are starting to read chapter books.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eleven-year-old Nick loves superheroes, and in addition to aspiring to be one, he enjoys creating his own comic book about a character called Click. Nick has even taken over a very important—and top secret—job from his great grandfather after his death, which enhances Nick’s alter ego. But Nick’s dad’s job is in trouble, which means the family may soon have to move away from their home on Black Butte Ranch in Central Oregon. So as Nick attempts to right the wrongs in his community in the dead of night, he finds himself fighting for the life he has always known as he begins to embody the character he has created.

This enjoyable middle grade novel combines the entertainment of comic books with the detail of a traditional narrative. At the beginning of each chapter, readers find a page from Nick’s own comic book, which directly relates to specific moments found within the novel. The chapters are relatively short, and they move quickly as Nick describes his life in the first person. An assortment of colorful and unique characters of a variety of ages and abilities also becomes part of Nick’s story, which helps readers to appreciate the depth of Nick’s relationships and the impact he makes on his community as a whole.

Many young readers will empathize with Nick’s desire for friendship and acceptance, especially those who participate in more intellectual pursuits than physical ones. Nick’s dad is vehemently against superheroes and forces Nick into sports, which directly contradicts Nick’s personal interests and desires. Unfortunately, Nick feels the need to keep his secrets close to his chest, so he is only able to open up to the audience and a select few others. This limits Nick’s ability to process his many strong feelings, but he manages to avoid them for a time as he investigates the life of a superhero. Ultimately, Nick discovers that not everything needs to be a secret and that trusting others can make life sweeter overall. Well written and engaging, this is a fun addition to library collections for middle grade readers who appreciate superheroes, comic books, and a good story.

[Diana Schaffter · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Just Like Click" by Sandy Grubb is a middle-grade novel about an 11-year-old boy torn between his father's athletic aspirations for him and his own passion for drawing superheroes and helping others. The story follows Nick as he secretly performs good deeds in his community disguised as a superhero at night, slowly gaining recognition and changing attitudes around him.

Key messages shared in the book are:
1. Self-discovery and staying true to oneself
2. Navigating parental expectations
3. The impact of community service

Each chapter begins with a comic page showing a slice of what is happening in the story. The humor shared between the comic characters is delightful and adds a sense of fun to the book. I think that middle graders will love this fresh and creative addition to the book's main story.

The book effectively portrays Nick's growth as he persists in following his heart despite initial ridicule from peers and disappointment from his father. As Nick's good deeds and artistic talents come to light, both his father and his peers begin to understand and appreciate his unique gifts.
This heart-warming tale encourages young readers to embrace their individuality and use their talents to benefit others. It offers valuable lessons about family understanding, the power of kindness, and the importance of pursuing one's passions. It also tackles important issues like parental expectations and peer pressure in a relatable way for middle grade readers.

Don’t miss following Nick as he takes on the role of the Superhero Click and uses his superpowers of determination, kindness and sincerity to help others in his community.

As a parent and a teacher I highly recommend “Just Like Click” for young readers because it encourages them to discover and use their own unique gifts to positively impact their world. This is such a valuable life lesson needed by everyone in our world today.

[Amys Bookshelf Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sandy Grubb writes a superhero children's tale with Just Like Click

In Just Like Click, the reader is introduced to Nick, who is eleven years old, and lives with his family at Black Butte Ranch. His parents want him to get involved in getting outside, making friends, doing well in school. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. The Townley family is in a bit of turmoil, where there are crimes being committed, making Nick's father think they need to leave, so he can get another job. Nick is infatuated with the comic books, Adventures of Click. Nick decides he has to do something to prevent his family from moving, taking him away from his life. Sandy Grubb has a great imagination. Nick thinks he needs to be an undercover Click, his hero to stop the crimes, mainly robberies in the area. He ends up taking on three new friends to help him, after they figure out what he is doing. It's a grand story, and a lot of action, and it actually makes sense that a child would want to keep his own world and also help out his family the best that he could. A reader can get lost in the story. This is definitely an unforgettable read. It's a heartfelt & inspirational, and it shows how much Nick loves his family, and his life. I think this is a great read to introduce to children, read to them, and all adults should read more children's books. Just Like Click is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book to also write a review.

[Nicole M. Hewitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Find my review, along with a fun list of Sandy Grubb's Top Ten Addictions, on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction

Just Like Click will appeal to any kid who’s ever felt helpless and wants to know they can actually make a difference. Nick doesn’t have any superpowers, but he’s been drawing superhero comics for years, and he’s also been inspired by his late great grandfather to step in and help people whenever he can. So he takes it upon himself to do some anonymous good deeds around the community at night–and maybe even find some clues about the thieves who are threatening his dad’s job. Meanwhile, during the day, he’s just trying to make it through the pressures he feels from his parents’ expectations of him and from the kids who used to be his friends but now just seem happy to tease him. The story explores navigating new and changing friendships, dealing with family pressures, and how to be yourself when others don’t seem to see value in your skills and talents. I especially loved Nick’s determination to help his great grandfather’s friends, proving that you don’t have to be a superhero to make a difference! The comics at the beginning of each chapter are a fun addition that will draw middle grade readers in even more. Kids will love this one!

***Disclosure: I received this book from the author so I could provide an honest review. No compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***

[J.R. Potter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Expertly paced, with a surplus of heart that equals its humor, Just Like Click delivers the best of middle grade. Nick Townley is the quintessential outside-the-box middle school hero, striving for truth and justice in a world run and bungled by adults, hampered by bullies, and defined by social mores that complicate and obfuscate our shared humanity.

Without ego (and often without common sense), Nick generates acts of compassion as an ad hoc superhero for his mountain community of Black Butte Ranch: for the elderly, for his friends, for misunderstood pets and wildlife, and ultimately in the end, through the process of the hero's journey, compassion for himself by focusing on what he can do, not where he falls short.

L.L. Tisdel's wonderful graphic novel-style illustrations add another layer of richness and levity to each chapter. Where so many middle grade novels spell everything out to the reader, Grubb's work respects the reader's intelligence. The motivation and heartache behind Nick's selflessness is teased out slowly, often in asides by Nick himself. I'm confident this book will not only be a joy to the young reader, but possibly a guidebook and model for them, showing them they too can embrace their own outside-the-box spirit and shine as bright as Superman recharged by the sun.

[Jenna Lee-Yun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just Like Click by Sandy Grubb is a heartfelt action/adventure story about 12-year-old Nick who is called to be brave when he feels anything but. When trouble brews in Nick’s beloved hometown of Black Butte Ranch, Nick must dig deep to find the superhero within him. But it’s not only insecurity that holds Nick back. He also struggles with the pressure to be all of the things his parents want him to be, the loneliness of not being seen or heard, and the grief of losing his grandfather who had always encouraged Nick to be himself—a kid who loves superhero comics, video games, and art. But it’s hard for him to view any of these things as strengths when they caused a best friendship breakup and seem to drive a wedge between Nick and his parents. Over the course of the story that’s uniquely and delightfully interspersed with comic-style illustrations, Nick learns that the power to save himself and those he cares about most lies within him—he just needs to be brave enough to be true to himself. With an endearing cast of relatable characters (including disability rep), an honest exploration of imperfect relationships, and superhero-inspired action and adventure (on a slightly smaller scale), Just Like Click is an engaging and heart-warming read!

[Laurie Schneider · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sandy Grubb’s JUST LIKE CLICK is a delight -- an intergenerational story full of heart, humor, hope and a young hero you’ll root for on every page.

While Nick’s father pushes him to play soccer and make friends with the cool kids, 11-year-old Nick prefers to spend his time cartooning and secretly carrying on the work of his Great Gramp who, like a cool Clark Kent, had been taking care of the elderly residents of Black Butte Ranch. When Nick’s father loses his job and makes plans to move the family cross country, Nick is determined to become a real superhero and save his dad’s job and their home in Black Butte. Despite his fragile self-confidence, Nick perseveres, and as his courage grows, so does his group of friends, until he has his own real-life sidekicks, a diverse group of kids who are up for adventure and share his love for their mountain home. Nick’s bravery and commitment to helping vulnerable community members is so infectious young readers will be inspired to discover their own inner super heroes.

[Maria Antonia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nick's an artist who loves all things superhero. His dad's pushing him to be great at soccer. (Nick's not great at soccer.) And then, because his dad's losing his job, it looks like they're going to move away. But Nick can't! He's helping the friends of his Great Gramp (who has died).

I love how Nick is so dedicated to all these old people! And how his Gramp tasked him with this job. Nick starts helping more and more people ... in the middle of the night, no less. (His nighttime escapades made me tired!) With the help of some girls, he's keeping the secret that he's the one behind all the good deeds being done, just like his superhero creation, Click. (And Superman, of course.)

I loved the little comics at the beginning of each chapter!  I'd recommend this for kids who love a good caper.

[Chelsey Elise Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

The hallmark of a good book for me is when I get so excited about what’s next that I accidentally skip a paragraph and have to go back and re-read it to make sense of what’s happening. I found myself doing that from page 1 of Just Like Click. This book is intriguing right off that bat, with an underdog protagonist who is believable and easy to relate to. There are plenty of unsolved mysteries and cliffhangers to keep even adult readers interested. This is a wholesome tale of adventure and family and friendship with lessons about being yourself, trusting others, and making a difference in the world. The comics at the beginning of each chapter provide a fun interlude. Though I'm not the target reader for this genre, I can't wait to read this with my son when he is a pre-teen.

[Nashae Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sandy Grubb's newest book is a thrilling journey into the imaginative world of a young boy grappling with real-life challenges through his superhero alter ego. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Black Butte Ranch in the Cascade Mountains, Nick's transition from a shy, comic book-loving kid to a reluctant hero unfolds with heart and excitement.

Grubb's writing is engaging and filled with youthful energy, capturing the essence of Nick's dual existence as both a regular kid and as a hidden superhero. The dynamics between Nick and the three new friends who discover his secret superhero persona add depth to the story, highlighting themes of friendship, bravery, and the importance of standing up for what's right.

This is a must-read for middle school readers.

[Raven Black · Rating 3 out of 5]

Have you ever read a book where you thought, "This is an okay book. It's not WOW, but not poor either." Yet, you just can't say, "Everyone should read?" If you like stories about boys that are into superheroes, mystery, love of their great grandfather, loves art and wants to be helpful, then this is for you. If you are looking for a book that could be set in 1970s or 1980s or even now, this is it. And though the two girls are a bit more modern than they would have been then, and there is a computer website, it felt like something I would have read as a kid in the eighty's. This is something you give as a gift to the child who can handle more text, but content is still an issue. Some possible triggers: there is some light bullying, and two characters are in a car accident (before events start) and due to that, one loses her leg.

[USOM · Rating 3 out of 5]

(Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)

Just Like Click is a story about finding our inner hero. Faced with an upcoming move, Nick is convinced finding the thieves would stop his family from having to move. I loved seeing Nick make friends. It's a story about unlikely friendships and about having to realize that we don't have to do everything alone. Just Like Click also navigates the difficulties when our parents want one future or one path for us and we don't.

[MIriam Spitzer Frankllin · Rating 5 out of 5]

You will love this story about Nick, an ordinary kid who becomes an undercover superhero. While his goal is catch the thieves that are threatening his dad's job so he can stay in the home he loves, his adventures in the middle of the night test his courage, build his confidence, and make him realize even superheroes need friends. With a loveable protagonist and a fast-paced plot, you will keep turning pages to find out how Nick solves his problems and steps into the shoes of the superhero in his own comic book pages! Highly recommended.

[Emily But Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the message behind the narrative to be yourself and you will attract friends who want to know you. Having stayed at Black Butte Ranch many times, it also made me nostalgic. I also appreciated the intergenerational friendships, the horses, and the completely clueless parents. Highly recommend!

[Linda Duim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book!
Building good moral character
Challenging family dynamics
Kindness in sharing friendships
Love and respect for elders
Suspense
Comic Book illustration was a real added bonus

[Caitlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good story with a very likable protagonist. I just wouldn’t say it was great. The writing wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t exceptional. If you enjoy stories about superheroes and kids doing good deeds, this is a book for you.

[Heather Crabtree · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC
Cute story about finding your place and your inner superhero. Middle grade kids, especially those not sure about where they fit will enjoy this book.

[Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun story of a boy finding his voice interspersed with comic panels make for a really engaging middle grade book.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

A superhero story for the modern age. I couldn’t help but root for Nick!

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! Great characters; great adventures; great message!

[Amy Shaw]

A story about adventure and camaraderie that readers in the target audience will relate with and enjoy.

[Katie Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t think I was going to like this as much as I did! This is a perfect read for hesitant middle school readers!

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this because it is a book listed on Oregon Battle of the Books this year. Cute kids’ book based at Black Butte Ranch in Central Oregon.

[Evelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unexpectedly delightful.