Common Sense Media Review
By Florencia Orlandoni
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Charming superhero stars in heartfelt tale of change.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In THE MIGHTY, tidy 12-year-old Miranda begins experiencing strange and unexpected changes: she can sense danger before it happens and sometimes transforms into a large, purple, gorilla-like creature. As crime increases across Willow City as criminal mastermind "The Peacock" gets up to no good, Miranda struggles to understand her abilities while trying to keep them hidden from others. At the same time, she navigates school responsibilities, shifting family dynamics, and friendships. Balancing ordinary life with extraordinary circumstances, Miranda must figure out what her transformations mean for her and her family, and how they connect to the growing threats facing her community.
Is It Any Good?
This funny and heartfelt comic blends superhero action with an emotionally grounded coming-of-age story. The Mighty balances humor and tenderness while exploring the uncertainty and unexpected changes of early adolescence. Neat, studious, caring Miranda is a 12-year-old who suddenly begins transforming into a large, purple, super-strong creature capable of sensing danger. As she works to hide and also understand these changes, Miranda confronts rising crime in Willow City led by "the Peacock," a villain and her network of henchmen. Miranda stands out as a compelling lead whose integrity, courage, and compassion shape her big and heroic actions as well as her everyday choices. She stands up for a bullied classmate, remains dedicated to school responsibilities, and navigates family challenges with grounded sensitivity. Supporting characters, including friends, neighbors, and teachers, are brought to life through expressive artwork and natural dialogue, reinforcing the story's focus on relationships alongside adventure. Readers will be eagerly awaiting future installments after reading this fun graphic novel.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the changes Miranda experiences in The Mighty. At first, she grows long purple hair on her legs, and later she develops the ability to sense danger and transforms into the Mighty. Have you ever gone through a change that felt surprising or confusing?
Do you think Miranda handled her changes well? What might you have done in her place?
Miranda often shows character strengths like courage and empathy when she stands up for others and faces challenges in Willow City. When have you seen someone show these strengths in real life?
How can courage and empathy help people during difficult situations?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Maarta Laiho
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Adventures , Family Stories , Friendship , School ( Elementary School ) , Superheroes
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Empathy , Integrity
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Random House Graphic
- Publication date : February 3, 2026
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 240
- Available on : Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : March 3, 2026
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