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The Fantastic Freeze Ray: A Branches Book
Full of evil plans gone wrong, hilarious hijinks, and a quirky but determined female super villain, Super Villains in Training is a brand-new full-color early chapter book series for younger children who aren't quite ready to read the bestselling series, The Bad Guys!
Pick a book. Grow a Reader!
This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line, Branches, aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow!
In this brand-new early chapter book series, Vicky von Evil has one goal--learn how to become the baddest, most dangerous villain of all time! The only problem is, being evil is way harder than it looks. Full of not-so-evil mess ups and action-packed hijinks, join Vicky and her best friend Will Wickedson on their wild adventures as they enroll in SVT, a top academy for all super villains in training. Together, they'll learn important combat skills and be put under the ultimate villain test. As Will easily flies through each round, Vicky has a harder time adjusting to her new school. Will Vicky be able to prove that she deserves a spot at SVT or will she get kicked out forever?
With speech bubbles, easy-to-read text, and full-color artwork on every page, this brand-new early chapter book series is perfect for newly independent readers!
Pick a book. Grow a Reader!
This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line, Branches, aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow!
In this brand-new early chapter book series, Vicky von Evil has one goal--learn how to become the baddest, most dangerous villain of all time! The only problem is, being evil is way harder than it looks. Full of not-so-evil mess ups and action-packed hijinks, join Vicky and her best friend Will Wickedson on their wild adventures as they enroll in SVT, a top academy for all super villains in training. Together, they'll learn important combat skills and be put under the ultimate villain test. As Will easily flies through each round, Vicky has a harder time adjusting to her new school. Will Vicky be able to prove that she deserves a spot at SVT or will she get kicked out forever?
With speech bubbles, easy-to-read text, and full-color artwork on every page, this brand-new early chapter book series is perfect for newly independent readers!
80 pages, Library Binding
Published March 3, 2026
About the author
Kailei Pew
17 books88 followersKailei Pew is a wife, mother, and children's book author represented by the amazing Emily Forney of Bookends Literary.
Her upcoming books include: THE MONSTER ABOVE THE BED (illustrated by Steph Lew, out from Clarion/Harper November 7, 2023- PREORDER NOW), KID-VENTORS (illustrated by Shannon Wright from Feiwel & Friends/Macmillan Spring 2024), and I SEE COLOR (co-authored with Valerie Bolling, illustrated by Laylie Frazier from Harper Children's, Summer 2024).
Kailei also does work for hire projects and has completed work for KiwiCo and Scholastic Book Club.
Kailei loves writing picture books and middle grade books that help kids see they can do anything they set their minds to. She is the co-founder of the PB Rising Stars mentorship and the creator of the Kids’ Choice KidLit Writing Contest.
When not writing or reading, Kailei can be found jogging through the Arizona desert, baking anything with extra chocolate, enjoying date night with her hubby, or playing a mean game of Sorry with her kiddos.
Her upcoming books include: THE MONSTER ABOVE THE BED (illustrated by Steph Lew, out from Clarion/Harper November 7, 2023- PREORDER NOW), KID-VENTORS (illustrated by Shannon Wright from Feiwel & Friends/Macmillan Spring 2024), and I SEE COLOR (co-authored with Valerie Bolling, illustrated by Laylie Frazier from Harper Children's, Summer 2024).
Kailei also does work for hire projects and has completed work for KiwiCo and Scholastic Book Club.
Kailei loves writing picture books and middle grade books that help kids see they can do anything they set their minds to. She is the co-founder of the PB Rising Stars mentorship and the creator of the Kids’ Choice KidLit Writing Contest.
When not writing or reading, Kailei can be found jogging through the Arizona desert, baking anything with extra chocolate, enjoying date night with her hubby, or playing a mean game of Sorry with her kiddos.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
April 7, 2026
Super Villains in Training is a fun and entertaining new chapter book series. Main character Vicky may come from a long line of super villains but that doesn't mean she quite measures up! Kids will enjoy Vicky's trials and failures to be evil as she figures out how to achieve her dreams ... in her own way!
April 28, 2026
My daughter devoured this book and immediately asked to read book #2 in the series. Wonderfully fun and engaging!
March 26, 2026
I am a mom of a four year old and seven year old. This is exactly what I’ve been looking for as a pathway for my kids to enter and continue their passage into the world of chapter books. Often times my older son becomes bored with overly simple picture books that are targeted towards my four year old, so I have been struggling to find books that they are both interested in so that I might hold onto this period of us all snuggling to read together for as long as I possibly can.
The illustrations are colorful and modern, giving my boys an engaging visual story to follow while I read to them. There is a part in the book where the author comments on the most common villain facial expressions- this is a great example of how an author and illustrator worked together to create a thought provoking dynamic for young readers. From that point in the story, my older son enjoyed observing how the different villains expressions fell into the facial expression categories listed. The characters are developed with individual voices that make it fun for me as a parent to read, especially when I can add my own funky dry personality to the leaders of the villain academy.
The well paced action led us to finish the book in one sitting. I knew it was a success when my younger son asked to read it again immediately and my older son admitted he already sneakily read it earlier, but enjoyed it all the same for the second reading.
I do wish that there was a bit more focus on the sibling dynamic throughout the story, but perhaps that will be developed in the following books as there are three in the series.
I also love how the parents of the main character Vicky immediately told her no to the super villain academy initially, but she was able to convince them of her passion and they changed their mind. A great reminder to me as a parent that an immediate no in my mind does not have to remain a no if my child can convince me that they will take an opportunity seriously.
This book is a fun time, I recommend it!
The illustrations are colorful and modern, giving my boys an engaging visual story to follow while I read to them. There is a part in the book where the author comments on the most common villain facial expressions- this is a great example of how an author and illustrator worked together to create a thought provoking dynamic for young readers. From that point in the story, my older son enjoyed observing how the different villains expressions fell into the facial expression categories listed. The characters are developed with individual voices that make it fun for me as a parent to read, especially when I can add my own funky dry personality to the leaders of the villain academy.
The well paced action led us to finish the book in one sitting. I knew it was a success when my younger son asked to read it again immediately and my older son admitted he already sneakily read it earlier, but enjoyed it all the same for the second reading.
I do wish that there was a bit more focus on the sibling dynamic throughout the story, but perhaps that will be developed in the following books as there are three in the series.
I also love how the parents of the main character Vicky immediately told her no to the super villain academy initially, but she was able to convince them of her passion and they changed their mind. A great reminder to me as a parent that an immediate no in my mind does not have to remain a no if my child can convince me that they will take an opportunity seriously.
This book is a fun time, I recommend it!
Read
February 27, 2026See my full review here: https://yabookscentral.com/the-fantas...
THE FANTASTIC FREEZE RAY is a delightful start to a new series, SUPER VILLAINS IN TRAINING. Vicky Von Evil was born to be a super villain - but it does not come easy for her. She is very excited to be accepted at a special school for villains, but she'll need to prove that she has what it takes!
What I loved: This is a fantastic format for independent readers who are moving away from picture books/early readers into chapter books. It is heavily illustrated with only a few sentences on each page and large, full color images. The colorful and comic-style illustrations are fantastic at grabbing attention and helping to convey the story, aiding young readers as they work their way through the book. It's almost like a long picture book, helping independent readers to stretch their skills and grow.
The story is very fun, with a focus on being a super villain (in a charming way). Young readers will relate to the story of wanting to fit in, feeling your family expectations, and wanting to succeed in school. Vicky is a compelling character, and the story is told from her perspective in a conversational tone that young readers will enjoy. The story has a nice touch of humor, and the ending is very sweet.
Final verdict: THE FANTASTIC FREEZE RAY is a charming chapter book, perfect for advancing independent readers with a fun story, great illustrations, and relatable themes.
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
THE FANTASTIC FREEZE RAY is a delightful start to a new series, SUPER VILLAINS IN TRAINING. Vicky Von Evil was born to be a super villain - but it does not come easy for her. She is very excited to be accepted at a special school for villains, but she'll need to prove that she has what it takes!
What I loved: This is a fantastic format for independent readers who are moving away from picture books/early readers into chapter books. It is heavily illustrated with only a few sentences on each page and large, full color images. The colorful and comic-style illustrations are fantastic at grabbing attention and helping to convey the story, aiding young readers as they work their way through the book. It's almost like a long picture book, helping independent readers to stretch their skills and grow.
The story is very fun, with a focus on being a super villain (in a charming way). Young readers will relate to the story of wanting to fit in, feeling your family expectations, and wanting to succeed in school. Vicky is a compelling character, and the story is told from her perspective in a conversational tone that young readers will enjoy. The story has a nice touch of humor, and the ending is very sweet.
Final verdict: THE FANTASTIC FREEZE RAY is a charming chapter book, perfect for advancing independent readers with a fun story, great illustrations, and relatable themes.
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
March 10, 2026
A Hilarious, High‑Energy Hit My Students Won’t Want to Put Down!
As a first‑grade teacher, I am always on the lookout for books that hook young readers from the very first page—and The Fantastic Freeze Ray absolutely delivers! My students love stories that make them giggle, and this book is packed with silly mishaps, colorful illustrations, and fast‑paced fun that keeps even my most reluctant readers turning pages.
Vicky von Evil is such a wonderfully quirky character, and her “villain-in-training” adventures had my whole class laughing out loud. The mix of speech bubbles, bright artwork, and short chapters makes this book incredibly accessible for early readers who are ready to stretch into longer stories but still need lots of visual support.
I can already tell this is going to be one of those books that gets passed around the classroom with kids saying, “You HAVE to read this next!” It’s the perfect blend of humor, heart, and action—and I can’t wait to add the whole series to our classroom library. A must‑read for young readers who love funny stories they simply cannot put down!
As a first‑grade teacher, I am always on the lookout for books that hook young readers from the very first page—and The Fantastic Freeze Ray absolutely delivers! My students love stories that make them giggle, and this book is packed with silly mishaps, colorful illustrations, and fast‑paced fun that keeps even my most reluctant readers turning pages.
Vicky von Evil is such a wonderfully quirky character, and her “villain-in-training” adventures had my whole class laughing out loud. The mix of speech bubbles, bright artwork, and short chapters makes this book incredibly accessible for early readers who are ready to stretch into longer stories but still need lots of visual support.
I can already tell this is going to be one of those books that gets passed around the classroom with kids saying, “You HAVE to read this next!” It’s the perfect blend of humor, heart, and action—and I can’t wait to add the whole series to our classroom library. A must‑read for young readers who love funny stories they simply cannot put down!
August 2, 2026
Vicky von Evil comes from a family of evil villains, and she wants to carry on the family tradition, even though her parents did not take up the family mantle. Vicky convinces them to send her to SVT, a school that trains super villains. Her best villain friend, Will, also goes there. Vicky works hard on learning to look and act and think like a villain. But it all comes down to the final test. Can Vicky be evil enough to keep her spot in the school?
This is a great book for emerging readers or young reluctant readers. It is highly illustrated, has appropriate language for young readers, and the story is compelling enough to hold their attention. This is the first book in a series, so it's a good way to keep kids reading.
This is a great book for emerging readers or young reluctant readers. It is highly illustrated, has appropriate language for young readers, and the story is compelling enough to hold their attention. This is the first book in a series, so it's a good way to keep kids reading.
September 3, 2026
The Fantastic Freeze Ray is the perfect bridge between picture books and longer chapter books—great for emerging or reluctant readers. I loved the illustrations; it felt like a young graphic novel. The main character, spunky and determined-to-be-a-villain, Vicky von Evil, is adorably drawn. The writing is fast-paced and funny, and the action exciting. The characters include parents, best friend—Will Wickedson—teachers, and students. There’s a variety of text, speech bubbles, and illustrations (on every page). The book’s final page has a Questions & Activities section. I bought several copies as gifts and am eagerly looking forward to the rest of the book in this lighthearted, fun series!
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March 28, 2026
As an elementary school librarian, my students are going to love this! It is the perfect addition to the Scholastic Branches line of early chapter books. It's light-hearted, fun and makes me want to go to super villain school! The colorful illustrations and use of labeling make it engaging and interesting. I can see my students now practicing their evil laugh and sketching out their super villain suit. The Fantastic Freeze Ray promotes imagination while providing opportunities for readers to grow. I look forward to the next two in the series! What will Vicky von Evil accomplish next?
May 21, 2026
Wacky and surprising!! The "villain school" premise is irresistible, and Vicky von Evil is such a fun protagonist — she's determined, hilarious, and easy to root for even when her evil plans completely fall apart. . Though I enjoyed reading to my 6 year old niece, this is perfect for kids moving from early readers to chapter books, with lots of full-color illustrations, speech bubbles, and short chapters. Such a great start to the series -- we can't wait to see if Vicky ever fits in at SVT.
May 27, 2026
Not everyone has what it takes to become a super villain. And Vicky von Evil is finding it harder to do than most of her classmates at the Super Villain Training school. But Vicky is determined.
In this, her first early chapter book, beloved picture book author Kailei Pew encourages young readers to achieve their dreams by showing that sometimes doing things the "right" way is not as good as your way.
In this, her first early chapter book, beloved picture book author Kailei Pew encourages young readers to achieve their dreams by showing that sometimes doing things the "right" way is not as good as your way.
April 20, 2026
Amusing Branches series about a young girl who wants to continue the family tradition of villainry but struggles to come up with evil plans. Readers see her attend the SVT school and struggle to be evil enough. She finds a way with the final test and is accepted along with her best friend.
A fun and light hearted series that will capture the imagination of lower to mid elementary readers.
A fun and light hearted series that will capture the imagination of lower to mid elementary readers.
October 6, 2026
Grow a reader, indeed! There are so many things to love in this book: Relatable character. Engaging storyline. Kid-friendly language. Decodable words with a few to challenge their skills. Not too much text on a page, and (some of that text being in the illustrations themselves), which makes it attractive to reluctant readers. I highly recommend this book!
March 28, 2026
My daughter LOVED this book and has now decided she is going to be a super villain. She is becoming more independent as a reader, and I am so excited to get her hooked on a new series. Can't wait for the next one!
April 7, 2026
Told from Vicky von Evil’s point of view, this book is a fun, quick read with a determined main character who wants to stay in super villain training despite her kind and sparkly personality.
Evil names abound including Vicky’s BVF -best villain friend- Will Wickedson and teacher Miss Chiff.
Evil names abound including Vicky’s BVF -best villain friend- Will Wickedson and teacher Miss Chiff.
August 2, 2026
Beginning chapter book for ages 5-7. The drawings are super cute and colorful, with plenty of humor. The villain thing is a bit uncomfortable for me as a premise, but her family is sweet and there's plenty of fun. This will definitely work for anyone that will go along with the premise.
August 18, 2026
Love, Love, Love this book and series premise which is sure to be a hit with new readers. I can't wait to see what Vicky dreams up next as she trains to become the best villain ever. Clever academy setting and illustrations to encourage page turns and launching strong readers!
October 5, 2026
Such a fun and hilarious chapter book! Vicky is a lovable character, and I loved watching her try to become the villain she thinks she’s supposed to be. A great choice for kids who love humor, adventure, and a little bit of chaos!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Cute book with fun comic-style illustrations. I think Vicky will be a great character to show kids that you can do things in your own, unique way.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Very cute easy reader about a girl named Vicky von Evil who wants to become a villain, but struggles to be a baddy. Color illustrations and a good message about being yourself.
March 24, 2026
This is a unique, fun story and the pictures are great! I think this would be great for motivating reluctant readers to open a book.
March 28, 2026
Super cute story for the youngest readers. Vicki wants to be a super villain, but does she have what it takes? A graphic-style format full of illustrations and tons of humor.
April 1, 2026
Adorable. Vicky Von Evil who tries but fails at being evil. Cute laughs for kids. Moves along very quickly with lots of action. Perfect for that young reader.
April 13, 2026
This is such a fun read and fresh take on supervillains! I love that sparkly, tee-hee-hee-ing Vicky doesn't give up and gives her own sweet spin on what it takes to be a super villain!
April 15, 2026
What a romp of a story! Great voice and super fun characters that any reader can relate to. This is sure to be a repeat read for kids and families all around.
April 18, 2026
A super cute book about a girl who wants to become a super villain. It's brightly colored and lots of fun to read, so it's perfect for young readers.
June 12, 2026
This was ridiculously cute and clever. I can definitely see this being a favorite. Very quick and fast paced with lots of illustrations, with a really hilariously unique set up.
August 28, 2026
The Fantastic Freeze Ray is a fun story about a kiddo who does things her way! Definitely recommend it for all school aged kiddos!!
September 14, 2026
This was surprisingly easy to read (with a toddler), and very adorable. I agree, more villains should have sparkles. I look forward to reading more with o.
September 22, 2026
Just the most fun and fantastic read!!!!! So excited to share it with all the littles in my life :)
October 5, 2026
This was a fun read! I bought this book for my 9-year-old son - he enjoyed it! And asked to read the next :-)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews