Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Third in tween superhero series has charm but lacks emotion.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In SECRETS AND SIDEKICKS -- the third book in the Katie the Catsitter series -- Katie is still secretly training as a sidekick to her neighbor/secret superhero, Mousetress. When giant robots start attacking the city, no one believes Katie when she says she knows who the culprit is. Adding to her frustration is drama on the friendship front. Beth is not only proving to be a better sidekick-in-training than Katie, she's also spending more time with Marie -- and without Katie. And Jess has a boyfriend, so things are changing with her, too. Can everyone, including more than 200 cats, work together to save the city and their friendships?
Is It Any Good?
The third installment in this graphic novel series continues the fun and humor from the first two books. Tween readers will relate to Katie navigating changing friendships, as well as her enthusiasm and perseverance. But while favorite superheroes and villains return in Secrets and Sidekicks, they lack some of the wit of the earlier books. Much of the main story and side stories also feels a bit stale, without the emotional depth as the first two books. But fans of the series will enjoy the colorful illustrations, the funny cat antics, and the expressive faces that add humor and charm. The engaging, dynamic artwork and colorful palette keep the pages turning. And the ending is satisfying but leaves the door open for further adventures.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about role models in Secrets and Sidekicks. Do you consider Katie to be a role model? Why, or why not? Who are some of your favorite characters, and what do you like about them?
Have you read the other books in this series? Which one did you like best? If you haven't read them, would you like to now?
Why are graphic novels popular with many readers? What do we love about them? What are some of your favorites?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Stephanie Yue
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Superheroes , Animals , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Perseverance , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Random House Children's Books
- Publication date : May 2, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 224
- Available on : Paperback, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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