A Hero Like Me

All children need heroes. But, what if the heroes they are told to look up to aren’t heroes at all?

A little girl walks past a statue of a man from way back in time who is supposed to be a hero, but she doesn’t think he is at all. In fact, many other people in her community agree, and the statue is pulled down. Later, the little girl thinks of other, worthier people who could be heroes for others: people who have fought for kindness, courage, justice and peace.

Based on the true events of 2020, when a statue of slave trader Edward Colston was pulled down and thrown into Bristol Harbour, A Hero Like Me explores the need for black heroes in our communities, and reminds readers that modern times call for new and better aspirations.

The book contains more information about the murder of George Floyd at the back of the book, along with how this led to the statue of Edward Colston being taken down – and the story of Jen Reid, who climbed on top of the empty plinth and gave the Black Power salute. This information is supplied with the intention that it can inform discussion between a child and adult. There are also some thought-provoking questions at the end of the chapter which will get children thinking about why we put up statues, who they are for and who should be commemorated and why.

An important picture book with an positive message about recognising modern heroes, A Hero Like Me is a must-read.