Books matching: complexities of heroism
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- #1
The Coward by Stephen Aryan follows the journey of Kell Kressia, a living legend and the only survivor of a quest to slay the Ice Lich ten years ago. Now, Kell is being called upon to return to the Frozen North to defeat a new threat. The book explores themes of coming of age, lost innocence, survivor's guilt, trauma, and the power of a good story. The plot unfolds like a DnD adventure, with encounters that forge the characters into a found family unit, and the writing style is engaging yet straightforward, putting the reader right in the middle of the story.
The story delves into the truth of what being a hero really means, the exploration of inner fears and the ability to unlock one's inner hero when faced with adversity. Through Kell's characterization, readers witness a reluctant hero battling his own inner demons while forming bonds with a ragtag group in a fight for survival against both men and beasts. The multiple points of view provide insight into the political and social aspects of the Five Kingdoms, setting the stage for a deeper exploration in the sequel.
Kell Kressia, slayer of the Ice Lich and saviour of the Five Kingdoms, tripped on a rake and fell into a pile of horse shit. With a vicious curse he scrambled to his feet, trying to brush the moist st... - #2
'Redemption's Blade' by Adrian Tchaikovsky is a refreshing take on classic fantasy, exploring the aftermath of a war against an evil villain. The book delves into the lives of heroes scarred by war, the challenges of rebuilding a broken world, and the complexities of moral dilemmas. It presents a diverse array of characters and creatures, each grappling with their own struggles and striving to make a difference in a post-war land. The writing style combines elements of humor, pathos, and intricate world-building, offering readers a compelling and thought-provoking narrative.
- #3
The Book of Heroes by Miyuki Miyabe follows the story of Yuriko, an ordinary fifth-grade girl whose world is turned upside down when her beloved older brother goes missing after a shocking incident. As Yuriko delves into her brother's room, she discovers a magical book that leads her on a journey filled with fantasy and adventure. The novel explores themes of heroism, reality, and the power of storytelling, blending elements of reality and fantasy in a compelling way. Through Yuriko's quest to find her brother, readers are taken on a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of heroism and the dual nature of characters.
Kana held a hand to her mouth, stifling a laugh. Yuriko grinned at her. Their seats were in the middle of the classroom. She looked around behind her. At least half of her twenty-five classmates were ... - #4
'True History of the Kelly Gang' by Peter Carey is a fictionalized account of the life of Ned Kelly, an Australian outlaw, narrated in the vernacular style as if written by Kelly himself. delves into the struggles of Irish settlers in colonial Australia, highlighting themes of injustice, poverty, and the fight against authority. Carey's writing captures Ned Kelly's voice authentically, portraying him as a complex figure motivated by love and loyalty, rather than just a simple criminal.
National Bank letterhead. Almost certainly taken from the Euroa Branch of the National Bank in December 1878. There are 45 sheets of medium stock (8‘ × 10‘ approx.) with stabholes near the top where a... - #5
'Soon I Will Be Invincible' by Austin Grossman is a unique take on the superhero genre, exploring the lives of superheroes and supervillains in a realistic and literary style. The story alternates between the perspectives of Doctor Impossible, an evil genius with grand plans of world domination, and Fatale, a female cyborg struggling to uncover her past while navigating the world of superheroes. The narrative is structured like a comic book, with chaotic jumps in time, flashbacks, and gradually revealed origins, providing a fun and engaging read for fans of the genre.
Six hundred and seventy-eight use their powers to fight crime, while four hundred and forty-one use their powers to commit them. Forty-four are currently confined in Special Containment Facilities for... - #6
In 'The Elfstones of Shannara' by Terry Brooks, the story follows Wil Ohmsford, the last of the Shannara bloodline, as he is recruited by the Druid Allanon to escort Elven girl Amberle on a mission to save the Ellcrys, a magical tree crucial for protecting the land. The plot revolves around their quest to take a seed of the Ellcrys to Bloodfire for a chance at a rebirth, filled with adventure, cliffhangers, and dangerous encounters with demons. The writing style is described as fast-paced, engaging, and filled with imaginative creatures and thrilling action sequences, making it a fantastic example of a classic fantasy novel.
The book is praised for its well-crafted characters, including Wil and Amberle, the compelling story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, and the gripping nature of the narrative that draws readers in. Despite some clichéd moments and familiar fantasy tropes, the book is commended for its entertaining plot, memorable creatures, and the heroic journey of the characters to overcome challenges and save their world.
The night sky brightened faintly in the east with the approach of dawn as the Chosen entered the Gardens of Life. Without, the Elven city of Arborlon lay sleeping, its people still wrapped in the warm...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Original Shannara ) - #7
Renegades by Marissa Meyer is a young adult superhero novel that intelligently tackles the questions that superpower narratives often face. Set in a future where people possess superpowers, the story follows the Renegades, the good guys, and the Anarchists, the bad guys, blurring the lines between their intentions. The book weaves suspense and intrigue as it delves into the lives of characters grappling with their powers and the consequences of their actions, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged.
The plot of Renegades unfolds with a mix of action-packed sequences and character-driven arcs that explore themes of trust, responsibility, and the complexities of heroism and villainy. Marissa Meyer's writing style captures the essence of a superhero story, drawing readers into a world where characters like Nova navigate between right and wrong, challenging the conventional notions of heroes and villains. As the story unfolds, readers are taken on a journey filled with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations, setting the stage for a gripping series that leaves them eager for more.
Kids ran amok in orange capes, screeching and waving Blacklight-branded sparklers over their heads, or shooting one another with Tsunami-themed squirt guns. Grown men had squeezed themselves into blue... - #8Please Don't Tell My Parents I'm a Supervillainby:Book 1 in the series:Please Don't Tell My Parents
Penelope "Penny" Akk, a teenage nerd and daughter of retired superheroes, is eager to develop her own powers and follow in her parents' heroic footsteps. When her powers unexpectedly manifest, Penny finds herself labeled as a supervillain after a science fair mishap. Along with her friends Ray and Claire, Penny embraces her newfound role and sets out to prove that being a villain doesn't necessarily mean being evil. The book explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the blurred lines between heroes and villains in a world where superpowers are common.
Richard Roberts' writing style in "Please Don't Tell My Parents I'm a Supervillain" combines humor, action, and emotional depth to create a compelling story that appeals to both children and young adults. The narrative follows Penny and her friends as they navigate the challenges of middle school, superhero identities, and the consequences of their actions, all while maintaining a lighthearted and engaging tone that keeps readers invested in the characters and their adventures.
“Why are you so dramatic today?” Ray asked as I sat down with my tray across from him. Just me and him at our table. I could listen to that inexplicable English accent the whole hour. He didn’t know w... - #9
'Ajax' by Sophocles delves into the tragic tale of the great hero Ajax from the Trojan War. The play explores themes of pride, jealousy, and the consequences of one's actions, as Ajax's downfall is depicted through his inability to accept defeat and his ultimate tragic end. The narrative also touches on the moral complexities of heroism, burial rites, and the debate surrounding what truly defines a hero in the eyes of the Greek audience.
The writing style of 'Ajax' by Sophocles is engaging and thought-provoking, as it presents a timeless story that resonates with modern audiences. The play is filled with dramatic tension, moral dilemmas, and complex character portrayals, particularly highlighting the inner struggles and flaws of the protagonist Ajax. Through skillful storytelling, Sophocles weaves a compelling narrative that prompts readers to reflect on themes of honor, redemption, and the fine line between pride and downfall.
- #10
'School for Sidekicks' by Kelly McCullough is a middle grade fantasy adventure that follows the story of Evan Quick, a 13-year-old boy who dreams of becoming a superhero. After saving his hero's life, Evan discovers he has powers and is whisked away to a special school for youth with special abilities. Assigned as a sidekick to a has-been superhero, Evan uncovers a government conspiracy that blurs the lines between good and evil. Alongside his classmates, Evan must navigate this superhero universe to save the world from impending danger, showcasing themes of heroism, friendship, and self-discovery.
The book offers a light-hearted and fast-paced narrative with elements of humor, mystery, intrigue, and action. Readers are taken on a thrilling adventure filled with unexpected twists and turns, engaging characters, and a climactic finale that leaves a lasting impact. Through Evan's journey, the story explores the complexities of the superhero world, emphasizing that even superpowered kids are still kids who face challenges and dilemmas in their quest to make a difference.