Heroes for My Son

November 1, 2016

Gr 5-7-What makes a person a hero? Meltzer's book offers 52 uplifting life stories as examples of everyday heroes. Featuring a host of famous and lesser-known people, each mini-biography explores the drive and inner motivation of these true role models. Tales of selfless acts and personal struggles are told in short snippets; each is accompanied by a picture and quote. A theme of resilience emerges when all of the accounts are read together. The book features figures such as Bella Abzug, a social equality activist and U.S. congresswoman; Officer Frank Shankwitz, cofounder of the Make-a-Wish Foundation; and Dan West, founder of Heifer International. The individuals who appear in these pages are remembered for the honorable acts they performed rather than the offices they held or the popularity they gained. Meltzer also includes stories about his mother and grandfather, both of whom had a profound impact on his life. Space is allotted for readers to chronicle their personal heroes. VERDICT A browsable addition to libraries with large budgets.-Jocelyn Charpentier, Acton-Boxborough Regional School District, MA

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2017
After sentimental introductions directed at his sons and daughter (respectively), Meltzer compiles succinct one-spread profiles of men and women who represent his view of heroism; each bio includes a black-and-white photo and a quote. With some overlap, the books include both well-known figures (Amelia Earhart, Nelson Mandela) and more obscure ones, as well as personal role models (Meltzer's ninth-grade English teacher). The personal approach adds resonance.

(Copyright 2017 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)