Hector’s Heroic Day was the winner in the Kids (Picture Book, 4 – 8 years) category of the 2016 IndieReader Discovery Awards, where undiscovered talent meets people with the power to make a difference.
Following find an interview with author Patrick Jones.
What is the name of the book and when was it published?
The name of the book is Hector’s Heroic Day and it was published: November 13, 2015.
What’s the book’s first line?
“Hector loved heroes- every kind of hero.”
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
It’s the story about a boy whose admiration for all kinds of heroes leads him on an adventure to become one. At the end of the day, he discovers what being a hero is really all about.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
Hector’s interest in heroes is actually taken from my own life experiences. We both share in our passion for them both real and fictional. As I matured however, the idea of heroism became a little more complex. What makes someone a hero? Yes, there are the obvious answers. If you see a firefighter save someone from a burning building, you easily know why that person is a hero. But what about a mom who spends hours helping their child with math homework that they are struggling with or someone who brings soup to their sick friend? They may not be on the level as the firefighter but they are still heroes. That is why I wrote this story, I wanted to show kids there are all kinds of heroes out there and there is more than one way to be one; even if it is just a small good deed that helps someone in need.
What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character? Who-real or fictional-would you say the character reminds you of?
I could easily say Hector’s desire to be a good person or his creative imagination, but the most distinctive thing about him is his thought process. Hector carefully considers all his options and the possibilities when making his decisions. He knows what he wants to do but that does not stop him from putting a lot of thought into how he will accomplish his goals. As for a person who he reminds me of, I think of the people who never hesitate to help a person who needs it. We all know those people; I have plenty in my life. I could have given a specific example but I would much rather have you think of the people in your life who are like this.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
Every day children experience the world around them and learn things that shape them into the person they will become. This book shares a valuable lesson I hope many would believe is an important lesson for kids to learn. And of course, it does so in a way that entertains and interests kids. Whether they have it read to them or read it themselves, I think it is safe to say children will enjoy hearing Hector’s story.