Not all heroes wear capes by Ben Brooks. Illus. by Nigel Baines

Ben Brooks, author of the very popular book, Stories for Boys Who Dare To Be Different, has written another very comprehensive and thought provoking book about everyday ordinary humans, both young and old, who do heroic things. Not All Heroes Wear Capes presents a myriad of people from all over the world who have made a difference to others around them. These people did not set out to be text book, motion picture stereotypes of heroes, and did not look for recognition as heroes but quietly went about their business. The number of heroes mentioned throughout the book is vast and one in particular stands out as he brought a ray of light and hope to the world crushing COVID pandemic. At 100 years of age, Captain Tom Roberts, chose to do something small and achievable to help raise funds for the frontline health care staff who were putting themselves at risk. His incredible efforts raised millions of pounds just by walking laps of his garden. Another much younger hero was ten-year old Tilly Smith who was holidaying in Phuket, Thailand in 2004. While on the beach she noticed the water was receding from the shore and remembered a geography lesson from school where her teacher had talked about tsunamis. She was able to alert everyone on the beach and they were able to run to safety.

The book opens with a discussion about what is a superhero and then is divided into ten chapters. Each chapter discusses a different aspect such as Dare to Dream, Look For Those Who Need Your Help and Share What You Know. Within the chapters are brief graphic style storyboards portraying the heroes and their story, more detailed text giving thoughtful and relevant information, clever images and large print headings to capture the reader's attention. The author's anecdotal and humorous style of writing engages the reader and may encourage further research and discussion. This book would be perfect for upper primary and secondary students.

Themes: Heroes, Ordinary People, Kindness, Courage, Caring for Others.

Kathryn Beilby