Disney's Hercules
on Goodreads (183)
What’s inside...
The mighty gods Zeus and Hera rule the universe from Mount Olympus. Hades, lord of the underworld, schemes to overthrow Zeus by kidnapping and draining the powers of Zeus's newborn son, Hercules. Despite being stripped of his powers, Hercules grows up and ultimately saves the world. Up on Mount Olympus, as the gods celebrate Hercules's birth, Hades plots to eliminate him to ensure his own success in taking over. Hades enlists Megara to aid him, but soon discovers that true heroes and true love are difficult to conquer. This tale, derived from Disney's animated film 'Hercules', illustrates the timeless theme of true heroism.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-12
Length
95 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What qualities do you think make Hercules a hero? Can you think of a time when you showed one of these qualities?
Hercules has many adventures and challenges. What do you think was his hardest challenge, and how did he overcome it?
How do the other characters in the story help or hinder Hercules on his journey?
If you had the strength of Hercules, what good deeds would you do?
Hercules had to make many decisions. Do you think he always made the right choice? Why or why not?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing Hercules' qualities, highlight real-life examples where your child demonstrated similar traits. This helps them connect personally with the character.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them how they would have handled the challenges Hercules faced.
Emphasize the importance of teamwork and support networks by discussing how other characters helped Hercules and drawing parallels to your child’s life.
Inspire imagination and altruism by asking your child what good deeds they would perform with great strength, reinforcing the idea that power comes with responsibility.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Strength comes in many forms
Explanation: In 'Disney's Hercules', the protagonist, Hercules, learns that true strength is not just physical but also moral and emotional.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value not just physical prowess but also the strength found in kindness, bravery, and intelligence.
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the story, Hercules faces numerous challenges that he overcomes through persistence and hard work.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence in daily challenges, whether in academics, sports, or relationships.
Example Lesson: Understanding true heroism
Explanation: Hercules ultimately realizes that being a hero involves more than external accolades; it’s about doing what’s right even when it’s difficult.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to act with integrity and make morally sound decisions, recognizing that heroism is defined by one’s actions and character.
Example Lesson: Value of self-discovery
Explanation: The narrative follows Hercules on a journey of self-discovery that leads him to find out where he truly belongs.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the journey of finding out who they are and embrace their own unique qualities and talents.
Example Lesson: The power of friendship
Explanation: Hercules is supported by friends like Pegasus and Phil, showing that achieving goals often requires help and cooperation.
Real-World Application: This highlights the importance of teamwork and building supportive relationships in achieving one’s goals in real life.