'The Hero' by Lee Child delves into the concept of heroism, exploring how the term 'hero' is used and misused in society. Child challenges the conventional notions of heroism, discussing the devaluation of the concept and critiquing the promiscuous application of the hero label. also touches on the evolution of language, creating words, and the development of heroes in literature throughout history.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is marked by a straightforward style, interspersed with metaphorical elements that maintain a conversational rhythm.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative centers on the evolution of heroes in stories, linking ancient origins to contemporary interpretations, while critically examining the notion of heroism.

Setting:

The setting spans historical contexts, examining the evolution of cultural perceptions of heroism throughout human history.

Pacing:

Pacing is uneven, beginning slowly with historical context before quickly addressing the core topics toward the end.

Genres:

nonfiction

essay

Topics:

history of heroes

cultural significance of heroes

evolution of storytelling

critique of the concept of heroism

personal reflections on hero creation

cynicism about heroes

philosophical musings

historical analysis

Notes:

The book is a short essay on the history of heroes in stories, spanning back to early cavemen.

Lee Child discusses the evolution of storytelling and how heroes have been portrayed historically.

He uses a clever metaphor linking his ancestors to the evolution of the hero concept.

Some readers felt the book didn't focus enough on the craft of creating a hero character, which they expected.

Child expresses cynicism toward the concept of heroes, stating he recognizes none and doesn't trust the idea.

The book critiques the overuse of the term 'hero' in today's society, including its application to soldiers who don't engage in combat.

Many readers felt the book was more about language and theory than practical insights into crafting a hero.

Child has built a successful career creating the Jack Reacher character, a cultural icon known for vigilante justice.

Some reviewers found the writing light and easy to read, while others criticized it for lack of depth.

Child acknowledges that the idea of heroes can be seen as politically manipulated or overexposed in modern culture.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book contains themes of cynicism about heroes and societal manipulation which may be triggering for some readers.

From The Publisher:

WHAT MAKES A HERO? WHO BETTER TO ANSWER THAT QUESTION THAN LEE CHILD…

'It's Lee Child. Why would you not read it?' Karin Slaughter

'I don't know another author so skilled at making me turn the page' The Times

In his first work of nonfiction, the creator of the multimillion-selling Jack Reacher series explores the endurance of heroes from Achilles to Bond, showing us how this age-old myth is a fundamental part of what makes us human. He demonstrates how hero stories continue to shape our world - arguing that we need them now more than ever.

From the Stone Age to the Greek Tragedies, from Shakespeare to Robin Hood, we have always had our heroes. The hero is at the centre of formative myths in every culture and persists to this day in world-conquering books, films and TV shows. But why do these characters continue to inspire us, and why are they so central to storytelling?

Scalpel-sharp on the roots of storytelling and enlightening on the history and science of myth, The Hero is essential reading for anyone trying to write or understand fiction. Child teaches us how these stories still shape our minds and behaviour in an increasingly confusing modern world, and with his trademark concision and wit, demonstrates that however civilised we get, we'll always need heroes.

Perfect for fans of Michael Connelly, James Patterson and David Baldacci!

What can you read after
The Hero?

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The Hero

Lee Child