The Invisible Hero

Elizabeth Fensham

The Invisible Hero
Format
Paperback
Publisher
University of Queensland Press
Country
Australia
Published
1 August 2011
Pages
232
ISBN
9780702238901

The Invisible Hero

Elizabeth Fensham

Philip has spent his whole life at school either being invisible or being called stupid. He’s used to being the loner, the odd one out, the boy who lives with his nan.

So when Philip’s class is given a school assignment to write about heroes and villains, the project causes conflict in the classroom as everyone weighs in on the debate. For the first time, Philip has the opportunity to shine in school - but can he convince the class that being different is not necessarily a bad thing and that heroes have many disguises?

Review

A Year Ten class are set an essay topic on the subject of Heroes. ‘One man’s hero is another man’s villain’ is the theme. Set jointly by their History teacher Mr Quayle and their English teacher Mrs Canmore, who are not natural allies, it also involves journal-writing and making a speech. We, the readers, are privvy to the journals as each student teases out the topic and how to approach it. To Macca, Mr Quayle’s golden boy, it’s a breeze. Macchiavelli – that’ll impress the teachers, what a dude, he knew how to win. To others, all sorts of heroes present themselves, and to Phil, the Special Needs student and class loner, with his blue-tinted glasses, writing anything at all, even though he feels so strongly about it, doesn’t come easy. As the term progresses, the journals reveal the classroom dynamics, and a variety of dramas going on at home; the idea of heroes and courage plays out on a different level.

This is an utterly fascinating novel, written with passion, with a plot that makes it unputdownable and an inspiring theme. A young adult novel that will also be enjoyed by upper primary kids and adults.

Kathy Kozlowski is from Readings Carlton

This item is not currently in-stock. It can be ordered online and is expected to ship in 3-5 days

Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.