Pop culture fans love taking powerful characters from separate worlds and debating who would win in a fight, and the Battle Royale: Lethal Warriors series walks high/low readers through this alluring game. Each title pairs two of “the deadliest and most feared warriors from different time periods, mythology, and legends,” outlining their respective traits before simulating a fight between them. The results, however, are left up to the readers, calling upon them to utilize the information they’ve learned and exercise some imagination. Bigfoot vs. Krampus pits two similarly large, brutish beasts against each other. A pair of huge, many- appendaged monsters clash in Kraken vs. Hydra. In Medusa vs. Hel, Greek mythology meets Norse legend, and Witches vs. Genies features two types of magical beings. Reluctant readers will certainly be hooked by the concept—bolstered by sections of “Fun Facts,” detailed descriptions of the subjects, and an inclusion of violence…Vocab words are highlighted, with definitions following in the text (as well as the glossary). Still, this foolproof concept will attract a range of readers, high/low and on-level.

Dramatically illustrated series rewards readers who savor the idea of frightening creatures duking it out. Introductory pages explore opponents’ characteristics, mythical or folkloric origins, powers, strengths, and weaknesses. The section “Choose Your Battleground” identifies three locations (sea, land, or mountains) and explains how fighters would fare in each; a “Weapons” sidebar is included. “Fight On!” follows, accompanied by a “Food for Battle” sidebar describing combatants’ stealthy strategies. “And the Victor Is…” sums up the conflict. Highlights: “Top Champion” discusses similar beings in myths from various cultures. “Consider This!” includes a list of critical thinking questions. VERDICT Fearsome warriors (some female) have strong appeal, especially for striving readers.