Even though he is a basketball star, Thom Creed is somewhat of a loner because he is different. His mother is out of the picture and his has-been, disgraced, ex-superhero father is distant at best. Thom has secrets that he keeps, including his own developing superpowers. When asked to try out for the League, the organization of superheroes, Thom finds himself teamed up with a group of misfit heroes. Together, they must pool all their resources and courage to stop a rogue hero and save the world.

Hero is a poignant, groundbreaking story about tolerance and coming of age. The main character, Thom, is a gay teen hero who must come out and save the world. His father is openly prejudiced and hostile towards homosexuals. Thom is vilified at school, at home, and in his new group of probationary superheroes when it is discovered that he is gay. Homosexual slurs are prevalent and language is graphic. Thom does have an anonymous hookup, which involves kissing and making out. Internet pornography is referenced and masturbation is alluded to. Super powers, fantasy violence, and character deaths abound. A positive sense of camaraderie and acceptance is found in an unlikely misfit group. This is a love story, where the boy gets the boy in the end. An excellent message resounds regarding the struggle to come to terms with who we really are and not being afraid to be that person. This book is probably more appropriate for an older teen, as opposed to the twelve and up recommended by the publisher.

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