The Captain Sun Adventures – Review

My Little Man has recently become fascinated with superheroes and all things related to graphic novels.  He loves the action, the fast pace, and the conflicts – and that’s why I’m super excited to be sharing the first of the Captain Sun Adventures with him as we review it, Book 1, Rescue Me! What Superheroes Can Teach Us About the Power of Faith.

The Captain Sun Adventures are part comic, part devotional.  The book contains a story in comic book form, complete with the bright colors, fast-paced action, and bold fonts for which comics are known.  About every two pages of story, however, there’s a break in the story for a devotional.

Each devotional is slightly less than a single page.  They fit the comic theme perfectly and compare superhero themes to gospel Truth.  The devotionals have titles like “The Origin Story” and “Your Secret Identity” that explain important elements of classic superhero stories but which show how those same pieces are true of Jesus’ life.  These devotions are simple in style but very clear, making them understandable by young superhero fans.  Since these books seem to be meant to be read independently, I’d say they target young- to middle- elementary aged kids.  With the combination of devotion and classic comic story, they would be great read together as a family, as well.

There are other great elements of these stories.  Each devotion includes a question about the comic book story itself and a scripture verse that relates to the theme of the devotional.  Also, in the back of the book, there are additional questions for each chapter and devotional.

The Captain Sun website has some really great information, too.  The ‘About Us’ page has biographies for Bryce Morgan, the author, and about both illustrators.  (Morgan also has a secret identity as a pastor – so you know that there’s another level of expertise behind the writing of these books – that of theology!)  The ‘Buy’ page has information about how to get your own copy of each of these three books, but also where to find the best deal.  The ‘Fun Stuff’ page is just that – with printable coloring pages, a sheet to customize to create your own superhero, and a link to the Captain Sun Zazzle store, where you can purchase your own official merchandise.  One of my personal favorites is the ‘VBS’ page, though.  You can download a VBS Primer Pack with the basic ideas you’d need to run your own VBS with a Captain Sun theme.  As popular as superheroes are right now, I’m sure that would be a big hit!  Even better, it’s available for FREE!  Further down the page is a place to link up your own ideas for crafts, games decorations, and more related to this theme, should you decide to hold your own Captain Sun VBS.  I’m not seeing many ideas linked up yet, but it’s a great idea.

My Little Man really enjoyed reading Rescue Me! What Superheroes Can Teach Us About the Power of Faith.  He’s eleven now and a super fast reader, so he read it in a single sitting in a very short period of time.  He enjoyed the story and liked the comparisons between superheroes and faith.

I’ve only read the first Captain Sun Adventure, Rescue Me! What Superheroes Can Teach Us About the Power of Faith, but the way that the devotions show Jesus’ awesomeness and walk young superhero fans through the Gospel message is most impressive.  My Little  Man grabbed the book immediately when he found it on the table and devoured the whole thing, and I’m sure that other fans would do the same.  These would be fantastic additions to Sunday School rooms, church libraries, in youth group rooms, or to a kids’ program in general.  Give them a try – I bet your kids will love them!