109 forgotten American heroes (plus nine or so villains)

In their children's debut, McSweeney's editors Ying and McMullen redefine the notion of the American hero with a montage of tributes to unsung figures. The stylish and colorful displays juxtapose photographs with drawings and digital images, producing a zine-like effect that is perfect for browsing. Minor celebrities like Edmund McIlhenny, inventor of Tabasco sauce; journalist Nellie Bly; and killer whale Shamu are given accolades, along with Victoria Woodhull (the first woman nominated for president), the hero sandwich, and the Navajo code talkers. There's a satisfying balance between tongue-in-cheek humor (on releasing nutria into the U.S.: "It's fine to make money, but don't set gigantic rats free in the process!") and valuable historical insights. Ages 11-17. (Oct.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved