What This Book Is About
Portico Reeves lives in the biggest building on the block—Skylight Gardens—and he knows every single person in it. He also has a secret identity: he is Stuntboy, the greatest superhero sidekick of all time. While superheroes get the glory, it's Stuntboy who does the dangerous stuff—catching the bad guys, taking the falls, making sure everyone stays safe. At least, that's what happens in Portico's imagination. In real life, he's a kid who is terrified of everything, especially the one thing he can't save: his parents' marriage.
As his mom and dad fight more and more—over dishes, over furniture, over whose turn it is to do anything—Portico retreats deeper into his Stuntboy fantasies, convinced that if he can just be brave enough, he can fix everything. Jason Reynolds writes with his signature blend of humor, heart, and razor-sharp honesty, turning a story about family pain into something warm, wild, and full of hope. Paired with bold, dynamic illustrations by Raul the Third, this is a book that meets young readers exactly where they are—in the messy, confusing, sometimes funny space between being a kid and having to grow up too fast. Reynolds is the National Ambassador for Young People's Literature.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why UWC Chose This Book
Stuntboy tackles a subject many children in international schools experience but rarely see in books: parental separation. In a community where families frequently face the stress of relocation, career pressures, and cultural adjustment, Portico's anxiety about his parents' arguments feels deeply familiar. The book validates those feelings with humor rather than heaviness, showing kids that it's okay to be scared and that they are not responsible for fixing adult problems.
From a reading perspective, Jason Reynolds is one of the most effective authors at engaging reluctant readers. His short, punchy sentences, dynamic illustrations, and irresistible humor make this an ideal gateway book for students transitioning from graphic novels to chapter books. The A2-B1 language is accessible yet rich with wordplay, helping students build vocabulary and reading confidence simultaneously.
Reading Level Guide
Slightly challenging at A1, but the illustrations and short chapters help. A good stretch read for strong A1 students.
The sweet spot. The low Lexile, humor, and illustrations make this one of the most accessible books on the G5 list.
A quick, enjoyable read at B2. The emotional depth rewards readers at any level. Try Reynolds' Look Both Ways for more challenge.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.