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Cover of Shadow of a Hero

Shadow of a Hero

Peter Dickinson (1994)

SubgenreChildren's Fantasy
Age groupMiddle Grade 8-12
Content ratingPG
Pages (Standard (250-400))
Setting
CSM age10
Goodreads3.7
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Content levels

ViolenceMild
Sexual contentNone
LanguageNone

Trigger warnings

Political ViolenceNationalism

Positive tags

Coming of AgeSelf-DiscoveryMentor FigureHeritage Discovery

Heroine archetypes

Coming-of-Age Heroine

Protagonist archetypes

Coming-of-Age Protagonist

Tropes

Coming of AgeHidden HeritageMentor FigureFish out of WaterPolitical IntrigueHistorical Fantasy

Themes

Heritage and IdentityFamily LegacyPolitical AwakeningCultural DisplacementComing of AgeNationalismHistorical Memory

Synopsis

In 1989, Letta, an English teenager, learns of her heritage from her grandfather, great-grandson of the legendary hero of Varina, as he becomes involved in the nationalistic political struggles in Eastern Europe.

Is Shadow of a Hero appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 10 and up.

A thoughtful middle grade novel exploring heritage, identity, and political conflict in 1990s Eastern Europe. Contains themes of nationalism and political struggle appropriate for mature middle graders interested in history.

What to know going in

This book has mild violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include political violence and nationalism.

Who'll love this

Readers who enjoy discovering family secrets and learning about real historical events will connect with Letta's journey of uncovering her heritage.

Tags

Historical FictionComing of AgePolitical DramaFamily Saga