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Hopeless Heroes #1
Here Comes Hercules
When Tim Baker breaks his mum’s favourite vase, it’s the least of his problems. The Greek hero he’s released is in danger of doing far worse. To the flowers, the rug—Oh, no! Not the kitchen!
Hercules is only trying to be helpful but he’s just hopeless. It’s time to send this dim demigod home before Tim becomes ancient history.
Hercules is only trying to be helpful but he’s just hopeless. It’s time to send this dim demigod home before Tim becomes ancient history.
208 pages, Paperback
Published February 22, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
April 22, 2018
About: Here Comes Hercules is a children’s book written by Stella Tarakson and illustrated by Nick Roberts. It was published on 2/22/18 by Sweet Cherry Publishing, 208 pages. The genres are children’s book, mythology, and fiction. This book is intended for readers ages 6 and up and it is book 1 to a series of two books.
My Experience: I started reading Here Comes Hercules as a bedtime story for my 6 years old son on 4/9/18 and we finished it on 4/20/18. This book is an awesome read! My son loves how Hercules deal with the bully. I like that Tim helps his mom around the house and corrects Hercules when he does it incorrectly. I like Tim’s mom’s failed attempts at getting published. As I read and reviewed many debuts and how easily their book made the NY Times Bestsellers’ List, I thought getting published is easy. This book reveals the reality of debut writers. I like that Tim respects his mom enough to make the house looks presentable before she comes home. I like how Tim tries to tell the truth first.
This book is told in the third person point of view following Timothy (Tim) Baker as he goes about his chores at home feeling like a Cinderella while his mom works late. He helps his mom around the house doing cleaning, dusting, weeding, etc and while dusting an old vase, he was distracted by the telephone ringing and accidentally dropped the vase. It breaks to pieces. As he worries about how he’s going to patch the pieces of the vase back together before his mom comes home, he sees a big muscular man appear near the broken vase. The big man tells Tim that he’s a hero named Hercules and that he can kill many things with his bare hands. Tim thought Hercules was a genie and wish him to help with the chores. Hercules attack each chores as if he’s in a battle and the outcome, well, is more than Tim asked for. The destruction at home angered Tim’s mother so he decided to bring Hercules to school with him. At school, Tim finds himself being sent to the principle’s office for calling the lunch lady fat, but no one see that he was telling Hercules to stop eating so much.
A well written book, Here Comes Hercules is an excellent reading adventures for kids! My son and I love the riddle but we couldn’t solve it and when it reveals, we thought duh! 😂 My son also laughs a lot at how Hercules want Tim to beat the bully. I like how Tim finally is able to stand up to the bully. I like the illustrations, very on point to the story. I don’t like those “stupid, dumb & idiot” words in kids’ stories. I think naughty or other substitute words will still make the story interesting. Besides that, my son enjoys this book a lot and I highly recommend everyone to read it.
Pro: fast paced, page turner, humor, hero, Greek mythology, actions and adventures, illustrations
Con: none
I rate it 5 stars!
***Disclaimer: Many thanks to the author Stella Tarakson, publisher Sweet Cherry Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review. Please be assured that my opinions are honest.
xoxo,
Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.wordpress.com for more details
My Experience: I started reading Here Comes Hercules as a bedtime story for my 6 years old son on 4/9/18 and we finished it on 4/20/18. This book is an awesome read! My son loves how Hercules deal with the bully. I like that Tim helps his mom around the house and corrects Hercules when he does it incorrectly. I like Tim’s mom’s failed attempts at getting published. As I read and reviewed many debuts and how easily their book made the NY Times Bestsellers’ List, I thought getting published is easy. This book reveals the reality of debut writers. I like that Tim respects his mom enough to make the house looks presentable before she comes home. I like how Tim tries to tell the truth first.
This book is told in the third person point of view following Timothy (Tim) Baker as he goes about his chores at home feeling like a Cinderella while his mom works late. He helps his mom around the house doing cleaning, dusting, weeding, etc and while dusting an old vase, he was distracted by the telephone ringing and accidentally dropped the vase. It breaks to pieces. As he worries about how he’s going to patch the pieces of the vase back together before his mom comes home, he sees a big muscular man appear near the broken vase. The big man tells Tim that he’s a hero named Hercules and that he can kill many things with his bare hands. Tim thought Hercules was a genie and wish him to help with the chores. Hercules attack each chores as if he’s in a battle and the outcome, well, is more than Tim asked for. The destruction at home angered Tim’s mother so he decided to bring Hercules to school with him. At school, Tim finds himself being sent to the principle’s office for calling the lunch lady fat, but no one see that he was telling Hercules to stop eating so much.
A well written book, Here Comes Hercules is an excellent reading adventures for kids! My son and I love the riddle but we couldn’t solve it and when it reveals, we thought duh! 😂 My son also laughs a lot at how Hercules want Tim to beat the bully. I like how Tim finally is able to stand up to the bully. I like the illustrations, very on point to the story. I don’t like those “stupid, dumb & idiot” words in kids’ stories. I think naughty or other substitute words will still make the story interesting. Besides that, my son enjoys this book a lot and I highly recommend everyone to read it.
Pro: fast paced, page turner, humor, hero, Greek mythology, actions and adventures, illustrations
Con: none
I rate it 5 stars!
***Disclaimer: Many thanks to the author Stella Tarakson, publisher Sweet Cherry Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review. Please be assured that my opinions are honest.
xoxo,
Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.wordpress.com for more details
January 12, 2018
Here Comes Hercules! is a fun start to a new children’s series called Hopeless Heroes. Including plenty of illustrations by Nick Roberts, we’re introduced to Tim Baker who lives with his mother. Tim is often needed to help out with the housework as his mother is busily working two jobs trying to keep her small family afloat, while actively working on her dream of becoming an author.
One day while dusting an ancient Greek vase he accidentally drops it and it shatters. Unbeknownst to Tim, by breaking the vase he’s also accidentally set Hercules free after he was trapped inside by wicked Hera, the wife of Hercules’ father Zeus. Hercules winds up ‘helping’ Tim with his household chores as only a Hopeless Hero can.
Hercules’ funny attempts to help inevitably end in disaster and Tim’s poor mother thinks Tim is acting out because he’s sick of cleaning. Tim discovers he’s the only person who can see Hercules, which complicates his relationship with his mother, his friendship with Ajay and even with Leo, the bully at school. Hercules is desperate to return to his wife and daughter and Tim is determined to help him, if only they can figure out how.
This chapter book is suitable for younger children who will enjoy Hercules’ bumbling attempts to be helpful. There are some good giggles and great illustrations, along with some accidental education about ancient Greek mythology. Bullying is addressed and I expect this theme will continue in future books. There are also indications the bully is facing family problems.
Tim and his mother are likeable characters who both have room for growth in future books. Tim, while not a fan of housework, wants to help out his mother and is supportive of her dream of becoming an author. Tim’s mother only wants the best for her son and is working hard to support him. I will be interested in reading the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley (thank you so much to NetGalley and Sweet Cherry Publishing for the opportunity) in exchange for honest feedback. While I would rate this book 3.5 stars, I’m rounding up to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
One day while dusting an ancient Greek vase he accidentally drops it and it shatters. Unbeknownst to Tim, by breaking the vase he’s also accidentally set Hercules free after he was trapped inside by wicked Hera, the wife of Hercules’ father Zeus. Hercules winds up ‘helping’ Tim with his household chores as only a Hopeless Hero can.
Hercules’ funny attempts to help inevitably end in disaster and Tim’s poor mother thinks Tim is acting out because he’s sick of cleaning. Tim discovers he’s the only person who can see Hercules, which complicates his relationship with his mother, his friendship with Ajay and even with Leo, the bully at school. Hercules is desperate to return to his wife and daughter and Tim is determined to help him, if only they can figure out how.
This chapter book is suitable for younger children who will enjoy Hercules’ bumbling attempts to be helpful. There are some good giggles and great illustrations, along with some accidental education about ancient Greek mythology. Bullying is addressed and I expect this theme will continue in future books. There are also indications the bully is facing family problems.
Tim and his mother are likeable characters who both have room for growth in future books. Tim, while not a fan of housework, wants to help out his mother and is supportive of her dream of becoming an author. Tim’s mother only wants the best for her son and is working hard to support him. I will be interested in reading the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley (thank you so much to NetGalley and Sweet Cherry Publishing for the opportunity) in exchange for honest feedback. While I would rate this book 3.5 stars, I’m rounding up to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
March 6, 2020
„Херкулес пристига!” е първото заглавие от поредицата на британската писателка Стела Тараксън и изд. „Робертино” „Безнадеждни герои”. Книгата ни среща с Тим Бейкър, обикновено хлапе със склонност да се забърква в неприятности и... да се натъква на легендарни фигури от древногръцките митове. Уви, боговете и героите може и да притежават невероятни дарби и страхотна сила, но май никакви ги няма, когато се наложи да ти помогнат с някой обикновен проблем, като строшена ваза например... Прочетете ревюто на "Книжни Криле": https://knijnikrile.wordpress.com/202...
February 15, 2018
I loved this book, and am really looking forward to more in this series. Tim, is having a pretty rough time of it. His father is dead, his mother (a frustrated writer) is working all hours to keep them afloat, relying on Tim to do all the housework, and he is being bullied at school. Then, as if things couldn’t get any worse, he manages to break the one valuable item in his house, whose sale could get him and his mother out of their financial despair. There may be a bright side to the breakage though, when suddenly the Greek demi-god Hercules appears and offers to help Tim. Hercules may be a strong, well-muscled hero of ancient times, but he is not particularly bright. His “help” creates much more havoc than the original problems, mainly because he keeps applying the solutions that enabled him to complete his 12 Labours, to modern day housekeeping. Diverting rivers might have cleaned out the Augean Stables, but small residential houses in suburbia are not improved (or cleaned) by flooding. Hercules is always well-meaning, and with him around, Tim’s life lurches from one hilarious disaster to the next. No one believes Tim’s explanations – not even his mother or best friend – since nobody but Tim can see Hercules.
Apart from being a great story in itself, this book is a very good introduction to Greek myths and legends, albeit with a Herculean bias. The illustrations are excellent. While the pictures of Tim and anything from the real modern day world are normal line drawings, Hercules is always drawn in ancient Greek vase style – complete with heroic poses, regardless of what he is doing (even making pancakes!).
The book ends all too soon – but with a promise of more to come.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
NB: I originally read this in a previous release as "Tim Baker and the Ancient Curse "
Apart from being a great story in itself, this book is a very good introduction to Greek myths and legends, albeit with a Herculean bias. The illustrations are excellent. While the pictures of Tim and anything from the real modern day world are normal line drawings, Hercules is always drawn in ancient Greek vase style – complete with heroic poses, regardless of what he is doing (even making pancakes!).
The book ends all too soon – but with a promise of more to come.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
NB: I originally read this in a previous release as "Tim Baker and the Ancient Curse "
March 6, 2018
There was a lot of excitement in our house when HERE COMES HERCULES and HERA'S TERRIBLE TRAP by Stella Tarakson popped through our letterbox. My eldest loves to read and was delighted to have a new book to dive into, and my youngest loves to listen to stories at bedtime, curled up in bed. So it was no surprise that we got started with the first story that evening.
Tim Baker is a good kid who helps out with the housework as his mum works two jobs to make ends meet. So when he breaks her favourite vase, the one that his mum treasures more than anything, Tim is worried. But that is the least of his worries as the vase held a secret and that secret is out in the shape of Hercules, a Greek hero who tries to help Tim but always seems to make things a little bit worse with hilarious consequences.
As soon as we finished with Hercules we jumped straight into HERA'S TERRIBLE TRAP for more madcap adventures when Tim finds himself in Ancient Greece with only Theseus to help him out. That is if Theseus can ever stop looking at himself long enough to be of any help!
We all really enjoyed both stories and the layout of the books really worked well as there are lovely illustrations throughout which help to paint a picture of the trouble the characters are getting into. The stories move along at a good pace, and my children always wanted one more page. While there are plenty of laughs throughout, there are also more sensitive topics mentioned like the bully who targets Tim or the fact that Tim's mum has to work two jobs to pay the bills, and this was expertly handled by the author, and it provided me with an opportunity to chat about these things with my kids in a light way.
My children found both books adventurous and funny, and it opened their eyes to mythology as they were eager to discover more about Hercules, Hera, and Theseus at different points of the stories. It is always great when you find a series to enjoy and the Hopeless Heroes series certainly gets a big thumbs up from this house. Bring on the next instalment!!
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
Tim Baker is a good kid who helps out with the housework as his mum works two jobs to make ends meet. So when he breaks her favourite vase, the one that his mum treasures more than anything, Tim is worried. But that is the least of his worries as the vase held a secret and that secret is out in the shape of Hercules, a Greek hero who tries to help Tim but always seems to make things a little bit worse with hilarious consequences.
As soon as we finished with Hercules we jumped straight into HERA'S TERRIBLE TRAP for more madcap adventures when Tim finds himself in Ancient Greece with only Theseus to help him out. That is if Theseus can ever stop looking at himself long enough to be of any help!
We all really enjoyed both stories and the layout of the books really worked well as there are lovely illustrations throughout which help to paint a picture of the trouble the characters are getting into. The stories move along at a good pace, and my children always wanted one more page. While there are plenty of laughs throughout, there are also more sensitive topics mentioned like the bully who targets Tim or the fact that Tim's mum has to work two jobs to pay the bills, and this was expertly handled by the author, and it provided me with an opportunity to chat about these things with my kids in a light way.
My children found both books adventurous and funny, and it opened their eyes to mythology as they were eager to discover more about Hercules, Hera, and Theseus at different points of the stories. It is always great when you find a series to enjoy and the Hopeless Heroes series certainly gets a big thumbs up from this house. Bring on the next instalment!!
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
November 2, 2023
3,5
Całkiem zabawna i w fajniej formie podana historia. Przyjemnie przybliżona sylwetka Herkulesa, jestem pozytywnie nastawiona do tej serii i myślę, że przesłucham sobie dalsze tomy. Gdybym była dzieckiem, to bym to pokochała
Całkiem zabawna i w fajniej formie podana historia. Przyjemnie przybliżona sylwetka Herkulesa, jestem pozytywnie nastawiona do tej serii i myślę, że przesłucham sobie dalsze tomy. Gdybym była dzieckiem, to bym to pokochała
September 27, 2019
A fun chapter book or read-aloud to introduce kids to Greek mythology. It reminds me a bit of the Magic Treehouse series -- an easy read with likeable characters that provides a bit of educational value to boot.
January 6, 2019
This is a cute chapter book about Hercules. Tim Baker thinks he’s in big trouble when he breaks one of his mom’s favorite vases, but that was just the start of more trouble than Tim could imagine. When the vase cracks a demigod is released from a spell and Hercules appears. This is a really cute and entertaining story as Tim is the only that can see Hercules. Hercules thinks he’s helping Tim but keeps creating problem after problem for Tim and his mom is buying the Hercules story.
I would definitely recommend this book to a young reader. It’s also a great introduction to Greek Mythology.
Thank you to Sweet Cherry Publishing and NetGalley for this wonderful children’s book, I can’t wait to read the next book in this Hopeless Heroes Series!
www.colecampfireblog.com
LanaLCole@yahoo.com
I would definitely recommend this book to a young reader. It’s also a great introduction to Greek Mythology.
Thank you to Sweet Cherry Publishing and NetGalley for this wonderful children’s book, I can’t wait to read the next book in this Hopeless Heroes Series!
www.colecampfireblog.com
LanaLCole@yahoo.com
Read
November 21, 2017"A magical adventure." – Donnie age 9
"A thumbs up from this house. Bring on Hera!" – Linda, Books Of All Kinds
"Massive hits with my eight-year-old son who’s a bit obsessed with Ancient Greeks gods. He thought they were really funny and easy to read… I loved the clever mix of comedy and history within the stories and also the strong sense of family values which ran throughout." Jo Cummins, Library Girl and Book Boy
"A thumbs up from this house. Bring on Hera!" – Linda, Books Of All Kinds
"Massive hits with my eight-year-old son who’s a bit obsessed with Ancient Greeks gods. He thought they were really funny and easy to read… I loved the clever mix of comedy and history within the stories and also the strong sense of family values which ran throughout." Jo Cummins, Library Girl and Book Boy
January 28, 2021
Czasami nowsze nie znaczy lepsze. Motyw już wykorzystywany wcześniej i mogłoby być nawet ciekawie, ale nie do końca wyszło. Według opinii na okładce dzieciom się podoba. Pewnie... Ale to od dorosłych zależy, co będą czytać dzieci i to dorosły może podsunąć dobrą lekturę, a za taką tej książki nie uważam. Czy ostatnio we wszystkich książkach dla dzieci musi być taki prosty, wręcz potoczny język? A potem zdziwienie, że dzieciaki mówią niepoprawnie i mają strasznie ubogie słownictwo. Może wina tłumaczenia?
February 13, 2018
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a great start to what promises to be a lovely series for middle grade children who are beginning to read chapter books by themselves. This story gently tackles the thorny problem of bullying while introducing Greek mythology to children. Wittily written with humour and a catchy storyline I believe it will become a middle grade favourite.
This is a great start to what promises to be a lovely series for middle grade children who are beginning to read chapter books by themselves. This story gently tackles the thorny problem of bullying while introducing Greek mythology to children. Wittily written with humour and a catchy storyline I believe it will become a middle grade favourite.
January 11, 2024
Aż się wzruszyłam
June 4, 2024
Nie porwała mnie w ogóle. Do tego stopnia, że doczytałam ja do końca sama, bo Marcelina nie była za mocno zainteresowana.
Będzie dobra jako samodzielna lektura dla dzieci, które nauczyły się dopiero czytać.
Będzie dobra jako samodzielna lektura dla dzieci, które nauczyły się dopiero czytać.
April 10, 2020
This is a fantastic children's book with links to Greek mythology as well as bullying in school. It shows that Greek heroes aren't quite as adept at managing with modern life as they might think they are!
When Tim Baker breaks his Mum's favourite vase, he wasn't quite expecting a Greek god to materialise in his living room. He would have prefered a genie, but some help around the house would be quite welcome. Tim's mother is struggle to provide enough money and is having to work two jobs just to keep the roof above their heads. So Tim has to do lots of housework and when Hercules appears in his front room, he may well be just the hero Tim needs. Needless to say, Hercules seems to cause far more trouble than any hero should.
This is a well-written story and is perfect for children aged 7+. I thought that Tim was a brilliant protagonist who clearly loved and cared for his mother. He truly tried his best to keep the house clean and help where possible, believing in his Mum's talent for writing and encouraging her every step of the way. It really showed how hard it was to get a book published as well.
Hercules seems to cause no end of trouble for Tim and makes more mess than the house has ever had before. Poor Tim gets blamed for the lot. The riddle and hidden messages within the story were delightful and made this a joy to read. It's definitely a quick, fast paced read that's sure to make you laugh out loud. The story had perfectly matching illustrations too. If the rest of the series is as good as this book, I think this is a winning series.
When Tim Baker breaks his Mum's favourite vase, he wasn't quite expecting a Greek god to materialise in his living room. He would have prefered a genie, but some help around the house would be quite welcome. Tim's mother is struggle to provide enough money and is having to work two jobs just to keep the roof above their heads. So Tim has to do lots of housework and when Hercules appears in his front room, he may well be just the hero Tim needs. Needless to say, Hercules seems to cause far more trouble than any hero should.
This is a well-written story and is perfect for children aged 7+. I thought that Tim was a brilliant protagonist who clearly loved and cared for his mother. He truly tried his best to keep the house clean and help where possible, believing in his Mum's talent for writing and encouraging her every step of the way. It really showed how hard it was to get a book published as well.
Hercules seems to cause no end of trouble for Tim and makes more mess than the house has ever had before. Poor Tim gets blamed for the lot. The riddle and hidden messages within the story were delightful and made this a joy to read. It's definitely a quick, fast paced read that's sure to make you laugh out loud. The story had perfectly matching illustrations too. If the rest of the series is as good as this book, I think this is a winning series.
April 25, 2018
Tim Baker's mom has to work two jobs, so he has to help out at home. He does some of the housework and helps in the garden and does what he can until his mother sells her stories and becomes a published writer. But when he accidentally breaks her antique Greek vase, his whole life gets turned upside down.
The broken vase released Hercules, who had been trapped there by Hera. He was so grateful to Tim for releasing him that he offers to help out with the chores. With Hercules to help, those household chores will get done in no time! Only, following directions isn't really his thing. So once the garden has been destroyed and then set on fire, once the tiger rug has been ripped almost in two, once Tim has lost all patience with his new hero friend, he decides that Hercules maybe doesn't need to help him with the chores any more.
Through the next few days, Hercules "helps" Tim with his school bully, steals all of his classmates' snacks, sweeps the house, and cleans the kitchen after making a huge mess of pancakes, and Tim isn't sure how to survive his friendship with Herc. He's in trouble with his mom for what happened to the garden. He's in trouble at school. His bully is extra mad at him and promising revenge. And worst of all, Tim's mom's story got rejected again.
Tim notices that there is some writing on the vase, once he glued it back together. He can't read it because it's in Greek, and Hercules refuses to read it to him. Herc's depressed because he just wants to go home to his wife and daughter. But Tim keeps thinking that it's important, and if he could just figure out what it says, he could find a way to turn everything around. Can he do it?
Hopeless Heroes: Here Comes Hercules! is a charming early chapter book for kids around 7-9. Not only is it a fun story with modern themes like dealing with bullies and helping out single parents who have to work a lot, it's also a good introduction to the ancient Greek and Roman gods and the myths that surround them. Stella Tarakson has written an entertaining story that is also educational, and it's just the first in the series. An excellent book for kids!
I found Here Comes Hercules! to be delightful, with realistic characters (the modern ones, anyway) and lots of honest emotion. It also has a really good amount of humor and an engaging story, This book is lots of fun!
Galleys for Hopeless Heroes: Here Comes Hercules! were provided by Sweet Cherry Publishing through NetGalley, with many thanks.
The broken vase released Hercules, who had been trapped there by Hera. He was so grateful to Tim for releasing him that he offers to help out with the chores. With Hercules to help, those household chores will get done in no time! Only, following directions isn't really his thing. So once the garden has been destroyed and then set on fire, once the tiger rug has been ripped almost in two, once Tim has lost all patience with his new hero friend, he decides that Hercules maybe doesn't need to help him with the chores any more.
Through the next few days, Hercules "helps" Tim with his school bully, steals all of his classmates' snacks, sweeps the house, and cleans the kitchen after making a huge mess of pancakes, and Tim isn't sure how to survive his friendship with Herc. He's in trouble with his mom for what happened to the garden. He's in trouble at school. His bully is extra mad at him and promising revenge. And worst of all, Tim's mom's story got rejected again.
Tim notices that there is some writing on the vase, once he glued it back together. He can't read it because it's in Greek, and Hercules refuses to read it to him. Herc's depressed because he just wants to go home to his wife and daughter. But Tim keeps thinking that it's important, and if he could just figure out what it says, he could find a way to turn everything around. Can he do it?
Hopeless Heroes: Here Comes Hercules! is a charming early chapter book for kids around 7-9. Not only is it a fun story with modern themes like dealing with bullies and helping out single parents who have to work a lot, it's also a good introduction to the ancient Greek and Roman gods and the myths that surround them. Stella Tarakson has written an entertaining story that is also educational, and it's just the first in the series. An excellent book for kids!
I found Here Comes Hercules! to be delightful, with realistic characters (the modern ones, anyway) and lots of honest emotion. It also has a really good amount of humor and an engaging story, This book is lots of fun!
Galleys for Hopeless Heroes: Here Comes Hercules! were provided by Sweet Cherry Publishing through NetGalley, with many thanks.
February 12, 2018
Bright Kid, Dim Demi-God
The setup is pretty standard. Tim and his widowed Mom are making do, with Tim soldiering on at school and chipping in at home. While helping with the housework he breaks a valuable ancient urn and, surprise, that releases an imprisoned Hercules, who immediately resolves to help Tim out, (with housework, school, bullies, and minotaur fighting), whether Tim wants help or not. Lots of possibility here, much of it predictable.
But here's the thing. Tim is a great character, as is his Mom. And Hercules is a muscle-bound, sort of dense, but decent, hoot. Only Tim can actually see Hercules, so again, all of the usual complications ensue.
While this is a fairly shopworn premise, it isn't if you are a new chapter book reader, and have never read it before. Anyway, as long as the author handles the setup well I don't see that as a problem or as detracting from the pleasure and fun of the read. And our author does a fine job. The writing is direct and clear. The story is well paced and moves along crisply and clearly. There are some little jokes, and the big set scenes, (Hercules trying to clean the kitchen the same way he cleaned the Augean Stables), work as sly inside jokes and as just funny bits.
But here's something that gets overlooked, and that I thought really added to this book's charm and appeal. Tim always levels with his Mom on what's going on, and she always gives him the benefit of the doubt. Tim doesn't hide that he broke the urn. Mom doesn't treat Tim as a liar or dope when Tim explains the deal with Hercules. There is a lot of trust, love, understanding, and mutual support in this family, without ever being preachy or coy or weird. How's that for a bonus in a book that's still mostly silly in an amible sort of way?
So, we get a great kid, a dim but still heroic Hercules, some suspense, some drama, a lot of silly business and a happy ending in a well written and well crafted packge. Not bad at all. A happy find. (This appears to be the first book in an intended series. Fine by me.)
(Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
The setup is pretty standard. Tim and his widowed Mom are making do, with Tim soldiering on at school and chipping in at home. While helping with the housework he breaks a valuable ancient urn and, surprise, that releases an imprisoned Hercules, who immediately resolves to help Tim out, (with housework, school, bullies, and minotaur fighting), whether Tim wants help or not. Lots of possibility here, much of it predictable.
But here's the thing. Tim is a great character, as is his Mom. And Hercules is a muscle-bound, sort of dense, but decent, hoot. Only Tim can actually see Hercules, so again, all of the usual complications ensue.
While this is a fairly shopworn premise, it isn't if you are a new chapter book reader, and have never read it before. Anyway, as long as the author handles the setup well I don't see that as a problem or as detracting from the pleasure and fun of the read. And our author does a fine job. The writing is direct and clear. The story is well paced and moves along crisply and clearly. There are some little jokes, and the big set scenes, (Hercules trying to clean the kitchen the same way he cleaned the Augean Stables), work as sly inside jokes and as just funny bits.
But here's something that gets overlooked, and that I thought really added to this book's charm and appeal. Tim always levels with his Mom on what's going on, and she always gives him the benefit of the doubt. Tim doesn't hide that he broke the urn. Mom doesn't treat Tim as a liar or dope when Tim explains the deal with Hercules. There is a lot of trust, love, understanding, and mutual support in this family, without ever being preachy or coy or weird. How's that for a bonus in a book that's still mostly silly in an amible sort of way?
So, we get a great kid, a dim but still heroic Hercules, some suspense, some drama, a lot of silly business and a happy ending in a well written and well crafted packge. Not bad at all. A happy find. (This appears to be the first book in an intended series. Fine by me.)
(Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
July 25, 2020
While cleaning his house one day after school, Tim knocks his mother’s ancient Grecian vase over and breaks it. This releases Hercules from the vase, where he was trapped by Hera. Hercules tries to help Tim around the house, but he makes everything even worse. The problem is that while Hercules is causing all kinds of trouble, but Tim is the only one who can see him. Tim has to figure out a way to fix Hercules’s messes and send him back into the vase.
I love Ancient Greece, and I especially love when it’s featured in children’s books. In this story, Tim wasn’t familiar with the story of Hercules or the gods of Ancient Greece. The reader can learn alongside Tim throughout the story as he learns more about Hercules. I didn’t read stories about Ancient Greece when I was a kid, though I became interested in them as I got older. I think I would have loved this story when I was a kid.
This was a funny story. Hercules had a lot of strength but no common sense, so he was constantly messing up things in the house. For example, when Tim asked him to weed the garden, Hercules ended up cutting up all the flowers and burning them because he thought they were all enemies. When Hercules would cause trouble, Tim was blamed since no one could see Hercules. Even though Hercules caused some problems for Tim, he was able to chase away Tim’s bullies, so they helped each other in a way.
This was a great middle grade story.
Thank you Sweet Cherry Publishing for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I love Ancient Greece, and I especially love when it’s featured in children’s books. In this story, Tim wasn’t familiar with the story of Hercules or the gods of Ancient Greece. The reader can learn alongside Tim throughout the story as he learns more about Hercules. I didn’t read stories about Ancient Greece when I was a kid, though I became interested in them as I got older. I think I would have loved this story when I was a kid.
This was a funny story. Hercules had a lot of strength but no common sense, so he was constantly messing up things in the house. For example, when Tim asked him to weed the garden, Hercules ended up cutting up all the flowers and burning them because he thought they were all enemies. When Hercules would cause trouble, Tim was blamed since no one could see Hercules. Even though Hercules caused some problems for Tim, he was able to chase away Tim’s bullies, so they helped each other in a way.
This was a great middle grade story.
Thank you Sweet Cherry Publishing for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2018
'Here Comes Hercules' by Stella Tarakson is the first book in a new young reader series featuring hopeless heroes trying to help youngsters.
Tim Baker lives with his mom and tries to help out around the house. When he accidentally breaks her favorite Greek vase, he helps Hercules to escape. Rather than the kind of helpful hero that Tim would need, Hercules seems to make more messes than he cleans up. Added to that, Tim is the only one who can see Hercules, so the school bullies have even more to tease him about. Tim needs to find a way to get Hercules out of his life before things are even more out of control.
I thought it was a pretty cute story. There are fun illustrations, and I loved that Hercules looks like he would on a Greek vase. I think it's a good start to a series, and one I'd recommend to young readers.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Sweet Cherry Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
Tim Baker lives with his mom and tries to help out around the house. When he accidentally breaks her favorite Greek vase, he helps Hercules to escape. Rather than the kind of helpful hero that Tim would need, Hercules seems to make more messes than he cleans up. Added to that, Tim is the only one who can see Hercules, so the school bullies have even more to tease him about. Tim needs to find a way to get Hercules out of his life before things are even more out of control.
I thought it was a pretty cute story. There are fun illustrations, and I loved that Hercules looks like he would on a Greek vase. I think it's a good start to a series, and one I'd recommend to young readers.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Sweet Cherry Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
February 24, 2019
This is the story of Tim Baker, a quiet middle-schooler, who has an unlikely adventure. He is sometimes teased by other kids because he is often home alone responsible for chores while his mother is off working two jobs. While cleaning one day he accidentally breaks an ancient Greek vase belonging to his mother. Suddenly the Hercules depicted on the vase comes to life and causes all kinds of trouble.
I really liked this story and I think children will find it funny. Hercules wants to help Tim, but only as a hero could help, which means he often causes bigger problems. I'm a big fan of Greek mythology and I think this book brought up some characters and stories in a funny and relatable way. I feel that the book got better as it went on and in the end it sets you up for a sequel, which I will definitely read. I have two boys age 7 and 9 and I think they would both enjoy this story. I would recommend for intermediate readers, fans of Greek mythology, and fans of humorous situations.
I really liked this story and I think children will find it funny. Hercules wants to help Tim, but only as a hero could help, which means he often causes bigger problems. I'm a big fan of Greek mythology and I think this book brought up some characters and stories in a funny and relatable way. I feel that the book got better as it went on and in the end it sets you up for a sequel, which I will definitely read. I have two boys age 7 and 9 and I think they would both enjoy this story. I would recommend for intermediate readers, fans of Greek mythology, and fans of humorous situations.
December 15, 2022
Looking for a fun, children's book to read
This one could be just the one that you need!
Instead of rubbing the lamp to get a genie
This has Tim Baker accidentally seeming to be a meanie.
Tim loves his Mum and does all that he can
To help her out - well that's his plan.
However when her vase he accidentally breaks
It isn't long till devastation overtakes!
No genie is released in this story you'll find,
It is Hercules instead, who'd like to be kind.
However, he's hopeless and causes a furore
As his helping proves disastrous more and more!
What's worse is Tim gets the blame for the trouble
And it is difficult to clear, even working at the double.
However, this hero from Ancient History,
Could be useful in solving a different mystery.
With great illustrations and plenty going wrong
This is a great read, the kind for which children long.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
What a fabulous children's read - and this is my honest review.
This one could be just the one that you need!
Instead of rubbing the lamp to get a genie
This has Tim Baker accidentally seeming to be a meanie.
Tim loves his Mum and does all that he can
To help her out - well that's his plan.
However when her vase he accidentally breaks
It isn't long till devastation overtakes!
No genie is released in this story you'll find,
It is Hercules instead, who'd like to be kind.
However, he's hopeless and causes a furore
As his helping proves disastrous more and more!
What's worse is Tim gets the blame for the trouble
And it is difficult to clear, even working at the double.
However, this hero from Ancient History,
Could be useful in solving a different mystery.
With great illustrations and plenty going wrong
This is a great read, the kind for which children long.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
What a fabulous children's read - and this is my honest review.
March 10, 2018
While I didn`t dislike this, and enjoyed it for the most part, it didn`t quite fully meet my expectations. First, I did like main character Tim as I thought he was sweet and smart, and rather capable, and I always enjoy stories where mythology and modern day meet. This introduced some more basic aspects of Ancient Greece too, so it would be good to introduce readers from the age group to the concept before learning many of the actual myths. Another aspect of the book I thought was fun was that Hercules wasn`t as heroic or helpful as expected, and some scenes showing this were really humorous, so I do wish there had been a few more of these. However, I found some parts of the story, for example Tim`s mum`s job, unrealistic, and I thought the ending was a bit too abrupt, but I look forward to trying the sequel Hera`s Terrible Trap.3.5/5
June 30, 2025
Предполагам, че при по-добър превод, щях да дам по-добра оценка. Книжката е пълна с дребни проблеми и несъответствия - главният герой е ту Тим, ту Том, най-добрият му приятел си сменя името между Аджей и Ейджей, има непреведени игри на думи, от които се губи смисълът на сцената. Отделно тази книга беше чудесна възможност да се разкажат подвизите на Херкулес по достъпен за деца начин, но това някак не се случва съвсем добре (научаваме детайли за Лернейската хидра и Авгиевите обори, но другите споменати подвизи - за глигана и Немейския лъв - някак се изгубват).
Отвъд това, синът ми беше запленен от историята.
Отвъд това, синът ми беше запленен от историята.
February 3, 2018
I really enjoyed this start to the series and I'll definitely be looking for more. I think the best way to describe it would be like the beginning chapter book start to mythology. It does base the back story on what happened to Hercules in Greek mythology but definitely takes it for its own ride. It's definitely kid-friendly and safe to read to kids who are too small to read chapter books for themselves. If you're interested by the synopsis, definitely give this one a try!
I would like to thank the publisher, author, and Netgalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I would like to thank the publisher, author, and Netgalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 15, 2020
Tim is good boy that helps his mum but he breaks her favourite vase , shocking he find Greek hero who trying to help but all alot of adventure happen. My son loved this book and finished in one sitting.
he would love to read the next one , as the series looks very interesting.
Netgalley Giveaway!!
he would love to read the next one , as the series looks very interesting.
Netgalley Giveaway!!
December 5, 2020
Прекрасна история с елементи на класически древногръцки митове, но резултатът не е скучно учебно помагало, а по-скоро забавен роман с весели илюстрации, с чийто главен герой всички малки читатели, преживяващи гадостите на съвремието ни, ще се идентифицират с лекотата на Дръндьото. Приключението продължава, и е толкова разтоварващо дори за порасналите :)
April 16, 2021
I asked our son to rate this book out of 1-5 ⭐️ and he said he would give it a 3 ⭐️. But I gave it four because our kid who doesn’t like to read...very much enjoyed this book and has been asking for us to read more chapters each night. And he pulled book two out with excitement...so I think he is just a tough critic 😉
March 19, 2024
Hercules is not at his best and I found his adventures in this primary picture book rather annoying. He doesn’t learn from his mistakes and just causes his friend Tim more and more problems. And of course, he happens to be invisible and the boy has the nicest mother who never ever gets upset, it’s soooooo fake. The only good parts were the references to Greek mythology.
November 17, 2024
This was a first in a kids book series that brings back old known Gods or other figures into todays world. I really enjoyed this series and it was so quick to read! I was interesting seeing how Hercules would deal with the real world. Great series but I got this copy from Netgalley so I will need to find the rest of the series. This would be a great series for kids who love Mythology!
January 28, 2018
Perfect for Year 3s (age 7-8) so planning to read it to them during our Ancient Greek topic.
Full review to come!
Full review to come!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews