History is filled with myth. Heroes and icons from our distant past are no longer remembered by people who actually experienced them. They are remembered by the stories passed down from generation to generation. After so many centuries have passed, it is often difficult to discern who was truly alive, and who lived only in the minds of the storytellers. Fictional beings are no less capable than real-life heroes of teaching society a lesson, or exemplifying what the reader believes is right and just, or downright evil. Whether or not the characters in a story were ever alive is a decision each reader will have to make on their own. Regardless of when or where the characters may have lived, each story in this collection will share with the reader some moral lesson that applies to the world today. Classic Legendary Hero Stories includes characters from a variety of places and time periods, including: Gilgamesh; Young David (Goliath's foe); Odysseus; Beowulf; El Cid; Richard Lionheart; Robin Hood; King Arthur; and Rama the Indian Prince.

Retells the Irish folktale in which the gaint Finn McCoul and his very clever wife defeat the brutish giant Cuculin.

A Hero Like You looks at everyday heroes and highlights qualities such as loyalty, compassion, resourcefulness, justice, and courage. The lyrical rhyme and relatable illustrations remind us that we all have the opportunity to be a hero by helping others, doing right and making the world a better place. "What the world needs is a hero like you!"

This is a larger-than-life tale about the African American hero who was born with a hammer in his hand. Join John Henry on a scenic journey from cotton country to the wilderness, where he finds men of all colors working together to build a great railroad. In no time, John Henry becomes king of the railroad camps by driving more steel than any man alive. And, in an exciting contest that pits man against machine, he single-handedly out-performs a new-fangled steam drill. This rousing tale delivers an inspirational message about pride and perseverance.

Larger Than Life by Robert D. San Souci illustrated by Andrew Glass An American Bookseller Pick of the Lists "This collection will practically leap from the shelf into many an eager hand. Its large format, attractive layout, and appealing illustrations will beckon to young readers." -- School Library Journal Every child should grow up hearing the tales of our most famous folk heroes. Here award-winning author Robert D. San Souci and illustrator Andrew Glass bring five American legends to life. Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox, John Henry, Slue-Foot Sue and Pecos Bill, as well as Old Stormalong and Strap Buckner, have inspired generations of Americans. These vivid stories, told with humor, spirit, and warmth, capture the flavor of frontier America while remaining accessible to young readers. "From the Trade Paperback edition.