The Legend of Hobart by Heather Mullaly

The Legend of Hobart pays affectionate tribute to fairy-tale tropes in a story about becoming a true hero.

The Legend of Hobart by Heather Mullaly. Favored Oak Press, 2021, 90 pages.

Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-10

Recommended for: ages 8-12

Who ever heard of a hero named Hobart? Youngest in his family, of unprepossessing appearance and an unfortunate stutter, all his efforts at rescuing damsels and children end with some reversal taking place. But in spite of bad luck and bad timing, Hobart longs for hero-status, the mostly likely route to which being the King’s School for the Education of Future Knights. And the only way for the son of a pig farmer to join the ranks of Future Knights is to perform some great deed of daring before he turns twelve. Dragon-slaying seems to fit that description, and there’s one in the region, so Hobart sets out on his quest armed with nothing but determination. Along the way he acquires magical gifts that seem unsuited to the task and two loyal traveling companions, including a stouthearted girl who happens to be handy with a sword. Friends, skills, and gifts will help suit him for the task a little better, but the ultimate challenge is his alone.

Familiar fairy-tale tropes and good-natured humor make this a delightful family read-aloud. It may not be a surprise that our hero becomes a true hero, but the way Hobart accomplishes his great feat is not the usual path of derring-do. Using one’s gifts has for the benefit of others, rather than personal glory, is the valuable theme. The story is slight—at 90 pages, it could use a bit more character development and emotional heft. But a warm and fluid writing style could attract reluctant readers as well as eager ones, and keep pages turning to the end. The downside: it may be hard to find at your local library, but the library may acquire it at your request.

Overall Rating: 4 (out of 5)

• Worldview/moral value: 4
• Artistic/literary value: 4

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Also at Redeemed Reader:

• Reviews: Heroes come in all sizes and types. See our reviews of We Could Be Heroes and The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library.
• Resource: See our Dragon Booklist!

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