Hero (original: 2007; edição: 2007)

Superheroes. Teen Angst. Diverse characters. More superheroes. Bad decisions. Action. Corny names. Even more superheroes.

I found this to be a really great, emotional coming-of-age story. It’s about finding yourself, but also finding validation in being yourself. But around all the teen angst and bad decisions are sprinkled in some of the most blatant totally-not-copyright-infringement versions of popular superheroes, and I found them pretty hilarious. It’s like a fun little mini game you can play while reading: What Marvel/DC character is this referencing? ( )

There is a word synergy that really describes this book. All the multiple layers really work together for a pleasant read. The main character is about as dumb as rocks given all the clues he misses along the way. The end should be blindingly obvious about 20 pages in, but that is not a dis-recommendation. The characters are so well drawn and the levels work together like a nice clock. So the upshot is its just fun. ( )

Re-read for my independent study - Thom is the son of a retired superhero and has secrets - he's got super powers and he's gay. An interesting concept with tons of nods to Marvel and DC superhero comics - its a good read but there's something about the writing that weighs the narrative down. Maybe a bit too melodramatic? Even on my second reading I enjoyed Hero but still find it puzzling.
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