Hero - Softcover

Rottman, S L

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1561454273 ISBN 13: 9781561454273

Publisher: Peachtree Publishers, 2007

Synopsis

What does it mean to be a hero?
Heroes are hard to find, especially for Sean, who, at fifteen years old, has never had it easy. He's estranged from his father and abused by his mother--Sean feels he has nowhere to turn. Suspended from school and with a mounting police record, he is one step away from serious trouble.
Sentenced to community service for violating curfew, Sean is sent to Mr. Hassler's farm, where he's forced to confront his fears and take charge of his own life. When Sean is faced with a dangerous situation that tests his true character, he learns just what it means to be a hero.
In an age where it seems that few heroes exist, S. L. Rottman has written a compelling and realistic portrayal of the conflicts that drive a young man toward his destiny.

About this title

Review:

"Rottman makes a promising debut with this YA novel about an abused teenager who gradually comes to trust another human being.... The book concludes credibly-there are no easy answers. Sean has discovered the heroism in everyday acts of courage-and his message is a powerful one for adolescents."

From the Author:

Review from VOYA
As a Jr. High English teacher, I have seen too many students who do not have anyone in their life to look up to. Hero looks at the lack of heroes in today's society, and examines what makes a hero. So far, my book seems to be receieved well by students, especially the reluctant readers.Here is another review that Hero has gotten.VOYA/December Hero had me laughing out loud on page three and nearly crying several times thereafter. Sean Parker is a tough kid, abused and neglected by his mother and seemingly abandoned by his father. A loner who refuses to join a gang, he manages to get into trouble regularly enough that, while suspended from ninth grade for fighting, he is caught out after curfew and sentenced to perform community service hours at a farm. During an intense week on Mr. Hassler's farm, Sean accomplishes more psychological growth than most achieve in a year and returns to school a changed person--only the school has not changed. Although heavily moral in places, Hero will have broad YA appeal because it cuts to the heart of issues about self-esteem, relationships, responsibility, and heroes. From the opening English assignment (to write about a hero) through Sean's diverse experiences, readers explore the characteristics of heroism. Rottman's novel closes with Sean's English paper--beautifully written, in character, yet unexpected. Few will be able to replicate the experiences Sean has, from the fairytale farm to his astounding psychological breakthroughs, but many will be glad to accompany him on his journey through these pages. A heart-wrenching tale. Buy it.--Cynthia L. Blinn.

About this edition

• Publisher: Peachtree Publishers
• Publication date: 2007
• ISBN 10: 1561454273
• ISBN 13: 9781561454273
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 221