Content levels
Positive tags
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Synopsis
Scientist Abednego Danner discovers a serum which grants superpowers. He injects his pregnant wife with the serum and his son is born with powers like those of Superman (created a few years later). What follows is the story of Hugo's search for his place in the world.
Is Gladiator appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
This 1978 novel follows a young man born with Superman-like powers searching for his place in the world. Expect moderate action violence and existential themes about isolation and identity.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, mild sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include violence and isolation.
Publisher ages reflect reading level; our rating reflects content maturity — they can differ.
Who'll love this
Teens who love superhero origin stories will connect with Hugo's struggle to find where he belongs despite his incredible powers.