The Labors of Hercules Beal

Following the death of their parents, Hercules’ adult brother Achilles gives up his career in journalism to run the family farm and nursery and raise twelve-year-old Herc. When Herc’s teacher assigns the class a seemingly impossible year-long project to complete the twelve labours of Hercules in the today’s world, Herc is at first totally discouraged and unsure, but learns a lot about life and himself, including the importance of the help of neighbours and friends, and civic responsibility. This engaging coming-of-age novel deals with grief and dying in an age-appropriate manner and also explores relatable topics of family and school life, emotional strength, community, friends, nature, and pets.