Monday, October 20, 2025

Middle Grade Review: The Trouble with Heroes


Finn is grieving the death of his father. He lashes out in the middle of a cemetery, kicking gravestones. Unfortunately for him, there's a camera in the cemetery and he's caught vandalizing the gravestones. Instead of paying for the replacement, the family decides that Finn should hike the 46 mountains of the Adirondacks.

Finn has the whole summer to complete the challenge, but there are some rules. The family dog has to go with him. Different volunteers will accompany him. Finn isn't thrilled with this ruling, but he has little choice.

He struggles with hiking, his grief, and his anger. 
My Thoughts: This novel in verse made me cry; I loved it. Finn struggles so much - both physically and mentally. I'm impressed with his hiking skills; those are some long hard hikes. I wanted to wrap him up in a hug. He's funny and sarcastic. I love how he started to enjoy the hikes and look more around him to appreciate nature. I love how everything tied together. I loved Finn's outlook on heroes. The dog is adorable. Another winner for Kate Messner! 

* There's a scary moment with the dog, but it turns out ok.

Why I Read This Book: I love Kate Messner's Books
Source: My Library
Cover Thoughts: Perfect
Library Recommendation: A Must have book for your school and public library collection

4 comments:

Natalie Aguirre said...

This must be good if it made you cry. I'm a fan of Kate Messner and will have to check this one out. Thanks!

Rebecca M. Douglass said...

I think I've already got this on my TBR list. The connection between hiking and grieving is one I've been exploring in my own life for the last 5 1/2 years.

Kasey Giard said...

I liked this one, too! Can't go wrong with Kate Messner. :)

Brenda said...

I really like the premise of this story and hope to read it soon. Happy MMGM