Marie Miranda Cruz
A Boy Called Hero
Twelve-year-old Hero Del Rosario isn’t happy about staying with his grandfather in the Philippines while the rest of his family takes a trip back to the States. He’s always been the overlooked one, the one who gets left behind, the one who—despite his name—is nothing special. But when he’s transported more than a century into the past, he suddenly has bigger problems.
It’s 1892, and the Philippines is controlled by Spain. Hero doesn’t know how he got here or how to get home. Luckily, he meets two kids his age—his great-great-grandfather, Teo, and Teo’s twin sister, Olivia—who take Hero under their wing.
Hero’s ancestors are secretly resisting the oppressive colonial government and working for Philippine independence. Their current mission: distributing copies of a banned book that promotes revolutionary ideas. Soon, Hero is drawn into this work . . . and discovers that he may be able to live up to his name after all.
As the Spanish authorities close in, Hero must act fast to save his family and the seeds of revolution―without losing his chance to return to his own time.
Carolrhoda Books
Middle Grade Fiction
Age 10+
248 pp
hc | 133 x 190 mm
Publication: September 2026
Author: Marie Miranda Cruz
All rights available, excl. Chinese (simpl. & compl.), Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Turkish
- A time-travel adventure story about finding ways to make a difference, connect with others, and be true to yourself no matter where (or when) you are
Awards
“This quick read pulls readers into the story and doesn’t let up until the end. Combining real history with Hero’s struggles gives layered insight into important Filipino history. Hero’s personal growth is significant as he learns to stand up for what he believes in.”—School Library Journal, 15 June 2026
“An exciting adventure that explores what it means to be a hero and sheds light on fascinating historical events.”—Kirkus Reviews, 21 May 2026
“Hero’s story gives us rich, unforgettable characters and a cleverly crafted setting. I couldn’t have loved it more!”—Edith Cohn, author of Birdie’s Billions and Spirit’s Key, 1 December 2025
“A fast-paced, high-stakes adventure straight into the heart of a nation on the brink of revolution”—Erin Fry, author of Joey the Good, 1 December 2025
“A moving, empowering adventure.”—Mae Respicio, award-winning author of The House that Lou Built, 1 December 2025
By the same author and illustrator