Official Review: Heroes of Earth by Martin Berman-Gorvine
-
- Posts: 14
- Joined: 23 Jun 2015, 13:47
- Bookshelf Size: 12
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-hkenney1.html
- Latest Review: Audible Book of your Choice by Amazon
Official Review: Heroes of Earth by Martin Berman-Gorvine

2 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
I. Summary
This novel focuses on the lives of Arnold and Alison Grossbard, brother and sister outcasts from the island of Chincoteague. What starts out as a typical day, evolves into the first step towards enlightenment of the impending war. With the assistance of the new school librarian, Arnold is taken to parallel worlds that prove more complex than they appear. Learning what it means to be a good friend and finding ways to be his own hero, Arnold embarks on a personal journey to save his world and all those he loves.
II. Unfavorable Reactions
My main reaction to this novel was confusion. There were many parts of the novel with disconnects and unexplained situations. Many times the author would introduce a new character without any background information or reason for their introduction into the storyline.
Another confusing aspect of this novel was the transferring presence between the alternate dimensions. Many chapters started in a new dimension without any reference as to how the chapter's main character came to be there.
The last confusing point I will point out was the storyline in itself. The storyline had many holes and did not flow like a novel should. Characters who started out seemingly as enemies, such as the characters of Mr. Wolfe and Gloria, were at a near flirtation in the ending with no explanation as to the change in their relationship dynamic. The entire novel built up tension and suspense for such an anti-climactic ending.
III. Favorable Reactions
What I enjoyed about the book was that the main character had to become his own hero. Arnold grew up fantasizing about being the hero. In this novel it shows teens and young adults that they too can make a difference, no matter their age or level of impact on society as a whole.
IV. The Author's Opinion
This novel is set to take place in the future and I feel that since we are a post-industrial society, the fact that the author chose to be discriminatory towards the Jewish population was astounding. We are evolving as a society and becoming more accepting of others with each new generation, so to impose such a profound view on the Jewish race was surprising.
V. Author's Style
I found the author's style to be very frustrating. I found myself wondering what color eyes a character had, what kind of house they lived in, etc. The author gave little description as to his characters or the scenery in which they inhabited. For this reason, I found it very difficult to become invested in the novel. The characters were unrelatable due to the few details and little background history provided about them.
VI. Rating
I rate this book 2 out of 4 stars. The reason for this rating is that I believe this book has much work that needs to be done before it can be impactful as a story. The holes in the novel need to be filed and many more details need to be given for each character/situation. However, I do see potential in this story as a whole. I believe it would appeal to the young adult audience successfully, if the author makes some additions and changes.
******
Heroes of Earth
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on Barnes and Noble
Like hkenney1's review? Post a comment saying so!