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“Plenty of action and intrigue to keep readers turning pages. . . . celebrates family heritage and explores less familiar historical times and places.”

—Booklist

“This quick read pulls readers into the story and doesn’t let up until the end. Combining real history with Hero’s struggles gives layered insight into important Filipino history. Hero’s personal growth is significant as he learns to stand up for what he believes in.”

—School Library Journal

A Boy Called Hero

Written by Marie Miranda Cruz
Published by Carolrhoda Books

A time-travel adventure story about finding ways to make a difference, connect with others, and be true to yourself no matter where (or when) you are.

Twelve-year-old Hero Del Rosario isn’t happy about staying with his grandfather in the Philippines while the rest of his family takes a trip back to the States. He’s always been the overlooked one, the one who gets left behind, the one who—despite his name—is nothing special. But when he’s transported more than a century into the past, he suddenly has bigger problems.

It’s 1892, and the Philippines is controlled by Spain. Hero doesn’t know how he got here or how to get home. Luckily, he meets two kids his age—his great-great-grandfather, Teo, and Teo’s twin sister, Olivia—who take Hero under their wing.

Hero’s ancestors are secretly resisting the oppressive colonial government and working for Philippine independence. Their current mission: distributing copies of a banned book that promotes revolutionary ideas. Soon, Hero is drawn into this work . . . and discovers that he may be able to live up to his name after all.

As the Spanish authorities close in, Hero must act fast to save his family and the seeds of revolution―without losing his chance to return to his own time.

Primary ISBN: 9798765690734
Publication Date: September 2026
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Middle Grade, Age 10 or older

Community Represented:

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Setting: United States, Philippines

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 1st Generation

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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