WHAT MAKES A HERO? WHO BETTER TO ANSWER THAT QUESTION THAN LEE CHILD...
In his first work of nonfiction, the creator of the multimillion-selling Jack Reacher series explores the endurance of heroes from Achilles to Bond, showing us how this age-old myth is a fundamental part of what makes us human. He demonstrates how hero stories continue to shape our world - arguing that we need them now more than ever.
From the Stone Age to the Greek Tragedies, from Shakespeare to Robin Hood, we have always had our heroes. The hero is at the centre of formative myths in every culture and persists to this day in world-conquering books, films and TV shows. But why do these characters continue to inspire us, and why are they so central to storytelling?
Scalpel-sharp on the roots of storytelling and enlightening on the history and science of myth, The Hero is essential reading for anyone trying to write or understand fiction. Child teaches us how these stories still shape our minds and behaviour in an increasingly confusing modern world, and with his trademark concision and wit, demonstrates that however civilised we get, we'll always need heroes.
• LEE CHILD'S FIRST WORK OF NONFICTION Lee Child is the best-selling author of the Jack Reacher novels and it is estimated that one of his books is sold every nine seconds. In The Hero we encounter not only a brilliantly argued essay, but also glimpses into Child's private thoughts and world. The Hero promises and delivers a behind-the-scenes explanation of the values, which helped Child to build Jack Reacher.
• CROSS GENRE APPEAL In its justification for the of the values behind the Jack Reacher books, The Hero will appeal to Lee Child's existing fans, many of whom may not be readers of the TLS. As the first TLS Book, it will also spark the interest of TLS readers, some of whom may not be familiar with Lee Child. We hope that the surprise combination of a best-selling author and a literary establishment will capture the curiosity and attention of book buyers.
• HEROES ARE ALWAYS TURNED TO IN TIMES OF INSTABILITY At this moment of political uncertainty, authoritarian leadership around the world, and fears for our environmental future, our culture will look for its heroes. Lee Child's arguments about the role that the hero and the storyteller have played in the development of mankind will feel particularly relevant and insightful at this moment. Child also explores how stories have been used to manipulate audiences as well as comfort them - and how the folk hero is often turned to undermine the state.
