The story of Jimmy & Invo’s Superpowers was written for pre-school, kindergarten, and primary school-age kids. This entertaining resource can be used in homes, schools, therapy sessions, and other child service settings. The storybook content introduces children to key character strengths that are “superpower-like” in their ability to help each child lead happy, prosocial lives.
The story portrays a day in the life of little Jimmy and his friend, Invo the Ostrich. Jimmy and Invo really like superheroes. Jimmy realises (with the help of his parents) that he possesses many character strengths that are ‘superpowers’, just like superheroes. Jimmy and Invo decide to spend the day looking for their superpowers both at home and at school. Jimmy’s friend, Invo, represents Jimmy’s internal voice, hence the name “Invo” (Internal voice). Invo helps highlight Jimmy’s internal thoughts about superpowers AND keeps readers engaged in the story, since Invo can be silly.
This children’s book features seven ‘superpowers’ (six internal character strengths #1- 6 and one external resource #7), which are all important components for leading a psychologically healthy life.
This resource educates children about character strengths AND reminds caregivers and child service providers about the importance of reinforcing and modelling these essential assets.
We all want our children to grow up to be happy, resilient adults. A key to achieving this goal is to ensure that every child has opportunities to develop character strengths (healthy personality traits) that have been linked to positive life outcomes.
Please note: The Guide, a separate book, contains background and presentation tips along with the story and corresponding storybook page numbers for ease of sharing. It is highly recommended that the Guide be used for the program to be implemented as intended.
"Jimmy & Invo’s Superpowers will quickly become a go-to resource for parents and counselors of young children. It teaches kids invaluable lessons through the everyday adventures of Jimmy and his trusty sidekick Invo. The story is relatable, and children will identify with the characters. The character strengths, or Superpowers are cleverly displayed throughout the story with definitions that are kid-friendly, and the accompanying lessons are easy to implement in the home as well as the classroom setting. Kids will quickly fall in love with Dr. Powell’s characters and want to learn along with them."
- Stephanie Coleman, LPC, School Counselor at Beattie Elementary at Poudre School District, Fort.Collins, CO
"Jimmy and Invo’s Superpowers belongs on the shelf of everyone who regularly interacts with children and youth. While many of us recognize the vital importance of helping children develop character strengths, it is not always easy to identify what those strengths are, or how to go about teaching them. Dr. Powell has done this work for us. Characters come to life in this fun and beautifully illustrated book that will inspire important conversations and increase motivation to demonstrate good character. The concepts are both simple and memorable, which will help children access them through their own “inner voice” – long after they’ve learned them. The specificity of the activity guide makes the teaching task easy for parents, teachers, and counselors, and it is ready to use from day one. A must-have resource!"
- Karla J. Gingerich, Ph.D., Associate Professor Emerita
Department of Psychology, Colorado State University
"This book is a great resource, packed with research and useful exercises and materials. What I loved the most was the positive approach this resource takes to working with every child. Children need that affirmation, and this is a practical approach developed by a respected clinician who brings decades of experience to a discussion of a child’s clear strengths to tackle the world."
- Joan Tabachnick, Principle, DSM Consulting, Professional focus on sexual violence prevention, Fellow with the Department of Justice SMART Office