Tommy's Hero
The story revolves around a young boy who idolizes a fictional character named Tommy's Hero, a brave and daring adventurer. The boy tries to emulate his hero by performing various acts of bravery, but ultimately learns that true heroism comes from within.
By Thomas Anstey Guthrie · First published 1898 · Genre: Fantasy, Children's Literature, Adventure · 6,929 words
First lines
It was the night after Tommy had been taken to his first pantomime, and he had been lying asleep in his little bedroom (for now that he was nine he slept in the night nursery no longer); he had been asleep, when he was suddenly awakened by a brilliant red glare. At first he was afraid the house was on fire, but when the red turned to a dazzling green, he gave a great gasp of delight, for he thought the transformation scene was still going on. 'And there's all the best part still to come,' he said to himself.
What this Textopian page supports
Tommy's Hero is listed on Textopian as a novella by Thomas Anstey Guthrie, dated 1898 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novella
- Author: Thomas Anstey Guthrie
- Date: 1898 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fantasy, Children's Literature, Adventure, Comedy, Coming-of-Age
- Length: 6,929 words
- Structure: 1 section, 168 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Tommy's Hero by Thomas Anstey Guthrie
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Tommy's Hero?
- How does this novella by Thomas Anstey Guthrie fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Fantasy first become important in the reading?
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- The Boyhood Of Fionn by James Stephens
- The Story Of Prince Fairyfoot by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Genres
- Fantasy — The story features magical elements such as a fairy and a clown who can interact with the protagonist in a fantastical setting.
- Children's Literature — The narrative is aimed at a young audience, focusing on a child's imagination and adventures.
- Adventure — The plot involves the protagonist's journey and experiences with the clown, leading to various playful and mischievous situations.
- Comedy — The clown's antics and humorous interactions provide comedic elements throughout the story.
Tags
Canadian Literature · Historical Fiction · War Novel · World War I · Coming of Age · Young Adult · Adventure · Family Relationships · Friendship · Loyalty · Patriotism · Duty