logo

49 pages 1 hour read

Hero

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Mike Lupica

Hero

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

730L

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Published in 2010, Hero by Mike Lupica is an adventure novel about 14-year-old Zach Harriman, who develops superpowers after his superhero father's mysterious death. Determined to uncover the truth, Zach struggles with his emotions, seeks a trustworthy mentor, protects his loved ones, and battles powerful enemies in his quest for justice. The novel includes scenes of violence and bullying.

Adventurous

Exciting

Suspenseful

Inspirational

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.2

5,976 ratings

64%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Hero by Mike Lupica has garnered mixed reviews. Readers appreciate its fast-paced action and relatable teenage protagonist, making it appealing for young adults. However, some criticize the plot for being predictable and the character development as shallow. Overall, it's a decent read for those looking for a simple superhero story with an engaging narrative style. MLA

Who should read this

Who Should Read Hero?

Readers who enjoy Mike Lupica's Hero are typically young teens who are fans of action-packed, superhero-themed stories. They would likely also enjoy books like Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson & the Olympians series or Anthony Horowitz's Alex Rider series, which mix adventure, mystery, and a coming-of-age journey.

4.2

5,976 ratings

64%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Character List

Zach Harriman

Zach is the son of superhero Tom Harriman, who inherits his father's superpowers after his death. He lives with his mother in a luxurious apartment and becomes a hero to fight evil with the support of his best friend, Kate.

Kate is Zach's best friend and the daughter of the family housekeeper. Beautiful and smart, she supports Zach in his adventures and is a strong influence in his life.

Mr. Herbert is a gray-haired mentor figure who guides Zach in understanding his powers and the challenges of being a hero. Initially distrusted by Zach, he proves to be a crucial ally.

Tom was Zach's father, a superhero who worked as a special consultant to the US president until his death. His legacy and untimely death inspire Zach to take up the mantle of heroism.

John is the Harriman family attorney who looked after them after Tom's death. Despite his connections, Zach sees him as a dubious figure due to his unclear motives.

Elizabeth, Zach's mother, is a dedicated campaigner for her late husband’s friend Bob Kerrigan's presidential run. Unaware of her husband's and son's superpowers, she is a constant source of support to Zach.

Senator Bob Kerrigan is a presidential candidate and a longtime friend of Tom Harriman, whose campaign becomes a focal point for Zach after his father's death.

The Bads are a nefarious group responsible for global chaos and the death of Zach’s father, posing as the primary antagonistic force Zach must face.

Spencer is the student body president and Zach’s school nemesis, antagonizing Zach due to his close relationship with Kate.

Knit Cap is directed by Mr. Herbert to test Zach in Central Park, serving as an initial adversary in Zach's journey.

Alba is the former nanny and current housekeeper for the Harriman family, known for her nurturing yet firm upbringing of her daughter Kate, who is close to Zach.

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

730L

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.