Sidekicks: Thick as Thieves
by Dan Santat; illus. by the author
Intermediate, Middle School    Graphix/Scholastic    240 pp.
1/26  Paper ed.  9781338879186    $14.99

Fifteen years after the publication of Sidekicks (rev. 7/11), Santat’s first graphic novel, here is a sequel (with two more volumes projected). Fresh off his last caper, Captain Amazing is taking a much-needed vacation, leaving his trusted band of sidekicks—pets Manny, Roscoe, Fluffy, and Shifty—to hold down the fort. Of course, that’s exactly when Shifty’s long-lost brother appears and a criminal gang targets Captain Amazing. Manny, Roscoe, and Fluffy don’t think it’s a coincidence, and their suspicion causes a rift among the sidekicks. Shifty’s loyalty is torn between his found family and his birth family, but he navigates the ethical dilemma with flying colors. Dr. Havoc, the villain of the first book, makes a surprise appearance late in this one, and figures to be around for a while. Santat’s cartoon illustrations, with their engaging dialogue and action sequences, are neatly parsed into an inviting layout of comic panels. This newly relaunched series is sure to capitalize on the popularity of comics and superheroes, the author’s reputation for kid-friendly work, and the same blend of adventure, mischief, and humor that appeals to fans of Aaron Blabey’s The Bad Guys.

From the January/February 2026 issue of The Horn Book Magazine.