hero's journey books for middle school

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Compelling Hero’s Journey Children’s Books

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What is the hero’s journey? It’s a story about an imperfect hero who goes on an adventure where he or she learns lessons through mistakes and triumphs, wins some sort of victory, and returns home a different person. Joseph Campbell famously wrote more about this concept in his book, The Hero With a Thousand Faces .

A familiar middle-grade example of this narrative archetype is the story of Harry Potter. But guess what? Many other books share the hero’s journey structure, too.

There are typically 12 or 17 steps in the hero’s journey, depending on who you read. Campbell said 17. Basically, the steps consist of three main structures: the hero’s departure, an initiation, and the hero’s return.

Within these three general steps are more stages in the journey such as:

an unusual birth or early childhood the call to adventure the refusal of the call a mentor figure who gives aid challenges or trials a special weapon facing doubts, fears, temptations transformation / the fulfillment of the call returning home mastering two worlds

Read more about the Hero’s Journey story on Masterclass.com and Jerry Jenkins’ website .

In this blog post, you’ll find more book examples with a hero’s journey structure, specifically middle-grade fiction for ages 8 – 12. These narrative books can be used to analyze the hero’s journey text structure in elementary classrooms, middle school English classes, and homeschool classes.

I’m including realistic fiction books that might not be typical hero’s journey chapter books but also can also be viewed through the lens of this trope with journeys that might be internal or otherwise.

PRINTABLE LIST

Compelling Hero’s Journey Chapter Books for Ages 8 – 12

Melissa Taylor, MA, is the creator of Imagination Soup. She's a mother, former teacher & literacy trainer, and freelance education writer. She writes Imagination Soup and freelances for publications online and in print, including Penguin Random House's Brightly website, USA Today Health, Adobe Education, Colorado Parent, and Parenting. She is passionate about matching kids with books that they'll love.

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30 Hero’s Journey Books: Adventures, History, And Fantasy (+ Amazon Links)

December 1, 2023 //  by  Katherine Monsen

The hero's/herione's journey is one that is prevalent in much popular fiction and has been developed over the years since 1949 when introduced by Joseph Campbell. It follows a journey structure where the hero's everyday life is disrupted and they return home transformed at the end of their journey. This blog provides a list of 30 books with hero's journey examples that can be used to demonstrate this structure to middle schoolers.

1. Holes by Louis Sacher

Stanley Yelnats is at a juvenile detention camp where he's digging holes, but he discovers that the warden is looking for something, but what could it be? This story takes some twists and turns as Stanley seeks the truth.

Learn More:  Amazon

2. Crossing the Wire by Will Hobbs

A 15-year-old Mexican boy endures a grueling journey to sneak across the U.S. border in an attempt to save his family from starvation. Victor doesn't have the coyote money some pay smugglers, so he has to travel on foot, and sneak onto trains and into trucks. Hobbs does an amazing job in telling a story that is true for many trying to "cross the wire".

3. Peak by Roland Smith

Go to a juvenile detention center, or go stay with a distanced father? Peak Marcelo chooses his father, but it comes with some unknown expectations. His father seems to have little regard for human life when he expects 14-year-old Peak to climb to the summit of Mt. Everest in order to become the youngest person to ever do so. Peak is part of a 4 book series.

4. False Prince by Jennifer Nielson

Nobleman Connor tries to reunite the kingdom by finding a replacement prince. Sage is one of four orphans that compete for the position, but he knows that Connor has ulterior motives. After crossing the field of adventure, Sage discovers a truth that is more dangerous than all the trials he's endured.

5. The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale

In this heroine's journey, Ani has never been comfortable speaking with people but can communicate with animals, especially swans. She is sent away from home to marry but ends up with nothing. She takes a job where her unique talent saves her and helps her develop her voice. This story reminds me of Jane Eyre.

6. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

An orphan boy, Nobody Owens or Bod, is being raised in a graveyard that he can't leave without the risk of being killed by the man that killed his family. This story depicts an unusual upbringing, where Bod has adventures with assistance from the inhabitants of the graveyard.

7. Lions of Little Rock by Kristin Levine

It's 1958 and a 12-year-old girl named Liz begins school. She befriends a girl named Marlee and they become inseparable until Liz stops coming to school suddenly. It is believed that Liz was a light-skinned black girl that was passing for white, but Marlee doesn't care; she values human life and friendship over politics and takes a stand, even if it's in a small way.

8. Wednesday Wars by Gary Schmidt

It's the 1960's, and Holling Hoodhood is beginning 7th grade. He dislikes his English teacher and his father is more concerned with his career than his family. Each chapter is a month in the year where we see Holling grow to appreciate Mrs. Baker and stand up for his family. Holling's journey accurately depicts everyday life for many families in the 60s, up until the end.

9. Bull Run by Paul Fleischman

This book features not one, but sixteen different heroes from the first great battle in the Civil War. It is told in a series of vignettes by each fictional character who represents every race, color, and gender, as well as from both sides of the fight.

10. One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

Delphine's heroine journey takes us on a cross-country trip from New York to California when she and her sister go to visit their estranged mother one summer. This work of popular fiction is relatable to many children.

11. Anything But Typical by Nora Raleigh Baskin

Jason Blake is twelve and struggles through each day due to autism. He enjoys posting stories online and discovers other writers with content like his. He wants to meet her in real life but fears it due to his disability. What this future hero doesn't realize, is that this fear is true for many people when making new friends.

12. Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper

13. drums, girls and dangerous pie by jordan sonnenblick.

Steven is your typical teenager until his little brother gets sick. He's trying to hold everything together and make it through high school. This work of popular fiction will take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions.

14. Cinder by Marissa Meyer

The lines of genuine science fiction are blurred in this futuristic take on Cinderella. Cinder is a cyborg who is blamed for bad things happening to her family. She ends up in an intergalactic struggle, where this hero ventures into unknown places and discovers secrets from her past that help her world's future.

15. Origin by Jessica Khoury

Pia had one purpose in life to start an immortal race until she sneaks out of her village and falls in love with a boy from a different village. She must choose to either follow her destiny or her love. It's hard to tell the difference between genuine science fiction and a heroine's journey in this story.

16. Jump Into the Sky by Shelley Pearsall

13-year-old Levi travels across the country near the end of WW2 to find his father, who is an elite, black paratrooper. Along the way, he learns how blacks are treated in the South, and once he arrives, he learns that his father is about to leave for a dangerous mission.

17. The League of Seven by Philip Reeve

Archie gets a team of 7 together in order to save the world from the Mangleborn, monsters who thrive on electricity. They had been trapped in underground prisons for years because there was no electricity, but all that changes when it is rediscovered and a Mangelborn brainwashes the people responsible for detaining them.

18. Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

Woodson tells her life story in a series of poems, each written from a child's point of view. Her journey, looking for her place in the world, when civil rights were just being better established for blacks, is evident through her use of vivid language.

19. The Lightening Thief by Rick Riordan

Percy Jackson has always struggled in school and is labeled as a troublemaker. To top it all off, he's accused of stealing Zeus's master lightning bolt. With the help of two friends, this hero ventures across the country from New York to California in order to find the true thief and discover who his father really is. This is book 1 of 9 and has become quite popular fiction among middle schoolers.

20. Half Bad by Sally Green

Nathan is in search of his father, who is supposed to give him three gifts on his seventeenth birthday so he can come into his own as a witch, however, he faces many difficulties along the way and learns he can trust no one. At times the journey structure is blurred, but Nathan completes his journey in the end.

21. The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo

Edward Tulane is an unlikely hero, as he's a china rabbit. He goes from being well cared for to being lost. We see Edwards' journey to multiple places, which teaches him how to love and lose that love over and over again.

22. The Stars Beneath Our Feet by David Barclay Moore

Future hero, Lolly Rachpaul is met with the struggle of joining a gang in Harlem, like his older brother had, or not. A community center project building a Lego city stops him from following in his dead brothers' footsteps. Lolly shows us how important it is to choose your own path in life rather than take the easy way out.

23. Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas

Bree is stuck in Swim 101 for her elective, which she is not happy about, but with the help of a neighbor, she finds herself trying to turn around her school's bad luck with swim competitions. Here we see an example of a heroine that goes against Joseph Campbell's opinion that they are the hero's mother.

24. Solo by Kwame Alexander

Blade wants nothing more than to distance himself from his drug addict father, despite his family thinking he's headed down the same path given his songwriting skills. One day he discovers a family secret which leaves him in a position to find what he's been looking for in life or leave him more lost than ever.

25. Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Ally has dyslexia, but didn't know it for some time. With the help of a new teacher, she learns how to overcome her disability and grows her confidence.

26. Hello, Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly

This book brings four different points of view together, in order to find a missing boy and show a bully the error of his ways in this adventure by assistance.

27. The Dreamer by Pam Munoz Ryan and Peter Sis

Neftali follows a mysterious voice into the field of adventure through the rainforest, sea, and the rain on a journey of self-discovery. This story is told through a variety of mediums and depicts the early life of Pablo Neruda.

28. Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai

After fleeing Vietnam, Ha and her family travel to the U.S. Told in verse, you'll experience a range of emotions.

29. Stranded by Jeff Probst

What starts out as a family vacation, quickly turns into a story of survival. Four siblings end up shipwrecked with no adults and must learn how to survive on their own.

30. As Brave as You by Jason Reynolds           

Genie is trying to decide what bravery looks like. First, he thinks that his blind grandfather is brave, but then he discovers that he never leaves the house. Then he thinks his brother is brave, but then changes his mind when he shows no interest in learning how to shoot a gun.

31 Best Hero’s Journey Books to Add to Your Reading List

Interested in learning more about the hero’s journey stories? Discover the best hero’s journey books to begin your reading adventure!

Writers and readers love hero’s journey stories . From the origin stories of cultures to the twelfth-century poems that make up The Mabinogion (themselves derived from earlier oral traditions) to today’s blockbuster SF-laden movies, the monomyth is a part of our collective, subconscious experience.

These stories feature certain archetypes and follow a set pattern. The hero sets off on a quest from his/her ordinary world (The Departure), subsequently learns a lesson or obtains new knowledge, and uses this to triumph over something, someone, or a set of circumstances (The Initiation).

The hero then returns to his/her own world, transformed or with the tools needed to enact positive change (The Return). Below, we take a look at the 31 best books to add to your reading list if you’re a fan of the genre. This list pairs nicely with our roundup of movies that follow the hero’s journey .

Here Are The Best Hero’s Journey Books

1. the hobbit by jrr tolkien, 2. the odyssey by homer, 3. harry potter and the sorcerer’s stone by jk rowling, 4. the alchemist by paulo coelho, 5. the inferno by dante alighieri, 6. the goose girl by shannon hale, 7. the wizard of oz by l frank baum, 8. the hunger games by suzanne collins, 9. to kill a mockingbird by harper lee, 10. where the mountain meets the moon by grace lin, 11. don quixote by miguel de cervantes, 12. the 5th wave by rick yancey, 13. beowulf, 14. siddhartha: an indian novel by hermann hesse, 15. a separate reality by carlos castaneda, 16. across the universe by beth revis, 17. american gods by neil gaiman, 18. little briar rose (sleeping beauty) by the brothers grimm, 19. jane eyre by charlotte bronte, 20. the pilgrim’s progress by john bunyan, 21. the hound of the baskervilles by arthur conan doyle, 22. treasure island by robert louis stevenson, 23. argonautica by apollonius, 24. the fault in our stars by john green, 25. holes by louis sachar, 26. interstellar by greg keyes, 27. divergent by veronica roth, 28. the buried giant by kazuo ishiguro, 29. alice in wonderland by lewis carroll, 30. the lion, the witch and the wardrobe by c.s. lewis, 31. fight club by chuck palahniuk.

This classic book by J.R.R. Tolkien has featured regularly on best-seller lists since its first publication in 1937 and is widely cited as one of the twentieth century’s most beloved and influential novels. It’s a classic hero’s journey genre tale, too – featuring an unlikely hero in the form of Bilbo Baggins.

This unassuming hobbit is swept off on an adventure when Gandalf the wizard and a company of dwarves appear on his doorstep. He finds himself part of a mission to reclaim a fabulous horde of treasure from under the very nose of the fearsome dragon Smaug the Magnificent. For more, check out our guide to the best fantasy authors. You can also check out our guide on hero’s journey archetypes .

“This is a story of how a Baggins had an adventure, and found himself doing and saying things altogether unexpected.” JRR Tolkien

• Tolkien, J.R.R. (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 320 Pages - 08/15/2002 (Publication Date) - Clarion Books (Publisher)

Homer’s story of Odysseus is one of the oldest surviving works of literature that’s still being read by audiences today. This epic story tells the tale of the wandering king, trying to get home to his wife Penelope following the end of the Trojan War . The tale features all the tropes of a hero’s journey story, from its opening.

Odysseus is portrayed in his ordinary life, through to the Crossing the Threshold section, where the Gods become enraged with the hero and his company, summoning a storm to throw their boat off course, to The Return, whereby after completing a final challenge, Odysseus is returned to his royal life with Penelope.

“A man who has been through bitter experiences and traveled far enjoys even his sufferings after a time.” Homer

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JK Rowling’s worldwide best-seller Harry Potter is a prime example of the hero’s journey tale. The book starts with Harry in the ordinary world before moving through all of the typical hero’s journey stages, as detailed by Joseph Campbell in his book The Hero with a Thousand Faces. Harry receives the invitation letter to Hogwarts (The Call to Adventure), struggles to accept this sudden turn of events (Refusal of the Call), and Meets the Mentor – in the first book, this is Hagrid.

The Crossing the Threshold stage is his literal passing through the wall to access Platform 9 3/4 at the station. The Ordeal is represented by the various challenges the young wizard encounters at his new school, culminating in his temporary triumph over Voldemort. At the end of the book, he returns to the world of the muggles for the summer vacation, happy that he’ll be returning to Hogwarts soon (The Return).

“A breeze ruffled the neat hedges of Privet Drive, which lay silent and tidy under an inky sky, the very last place you would expect astonishing things to happen.” JK Rowling

The hero’s journey takes many different forms: it’s not always about defeating villains or finding lost treasure. The genre can also be powerfully deployed in the service of a spiritual quest tale, as in this novel. While the young protagonist, who is a perfect example of the Innocent/Orphan hero archetype, might start his journey looking for real-world riches, what unfolds is a beautiful story of self-discovery. Ultimately, the book is about the importance of heeding our hearts and the transformative power of dreams.

“Remember that wherever your heart is, there you will find your treasure.” Paulo Coelho

• Note: Item has rough Cut edges(Edges are cut improperly intentionally by the manufacturer)
• A special 25th anniversary edition of the extraordinary international bestseller, including a new Foreword by Paulo Coelho.
• Combining magic, mysticism, wisdom and wonder into an inspiring tale of self-discovery,
• Coelho, Paulo (Author)

The first volume of The Divine Comedy is considered a literary masterpiece, following the hero’s journey on a quest through the various Circles of Hell. After meeting Virgil (the Mentor), our narrator progresses, facing numerous trials and tests, always seeking his beloved Beatrice. Although he sometimes has ‘weapons’ with which to face his adversaries, his most potent weapon is his faith in his journey, which is a blend of both a spiritual and a physical mission.

“Soon you will be where your own eyes will see the source and cause and give you their own answer to the mystery.” Dante Alighieri

• Alighieri, Dante (Author)
• 108 Pages - 05/30/2013 (Publication Date) - CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (Publisher)

New York Times bestselling author Shannon Hale has written a book that, although aimed at middle-schoolers, has become much loved by kids and adults alike. Drawing on the tradition of folktales, it’s a heroine’s journey story, recounting the tale of Ani, who’s uncomfortable around people but able to communicate easily with animals. She leaves her world behind. However, when she’s sent away to marry. Despite disaster striking, she finds herself in a job where she can use her unique talents and give voice to her inner self.

If we don’t tell strange stories, when something strange happens we won’t believe it.” Shannon Hale

• Hardcover Book
• Shannon Hale (Author)
• 400 Pages - 04/13/2024 (Publication Date) - Bloomsbury Childrens Books (Publisher)

A key element of the heroine’s journey is, while it maintains recognizable archetype qualities, there is an overcoming or subversion of society’s expectations regarding women. Rather than staying at home in Kanas, Dorothy has the adventure she longs for.

While the hero’s journey stories tend to move from the inner world to the outer (from the darkness to the light), the heroine’s journey is usually the inverse of this, with characters moving from the outer world to a deeper communion with their inner selves and desires.

“The true courage is in facing danger when you are afraid, and that kind of courage you have in plenty.’“ L Frank Baum

• Baum, L. Frank (Author)
• 160 Pages - 12/01/2016 (Publication Date) - Sweet Cherry Publishing (Publisher)

Envisioning a dystopian new world in which each District is compelled to send two children between the ages of twelve and sixteen to compete in the annual Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins’ novels are widely cited as examples of the hero’s journey genre. Now a Hollywood blockbuster series of movies, the story demonstrates how the tropes inherent in Homer’s tale of Odysseus, written nearly 3,000 years ago, are still alive and kicking today. For more, check out our guide to the best books for teenagers .

“I’m more than just a piece in their Games.” Suzanne Collins

Set in 1930s Alabama, Atticus Finch is a lawyer attempting to defend and prove the innocence of Tom Robinson, a black man wrongly accused of raping a white woman. Atticus’s hero’s journey is largely a psychological one, in which he faces his own innermost beliefs, and is forced to confront morality and prejudice in the south of the US, how this manifests, and its impact on the individual and society – as well as the delivery of justice.

“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view. Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it.” Harper Lee

Another bestselling novel adored by adults and children alike, Where the Mountain Meets the Moon chronicles Minli’s quest as she journies to find the Old Man on the Moon. Drawing on Chinese folktales, this rich fantasy, accompanied by the author’s beautiful illustrations, follows Minli as she encounters a range of otherworldly characters in her quest to find the answers to some of life’s biggest questions.

“If you make happy those that are near, those that are far will come.” Grace Lin

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• Lin, Grace (Author)

The Spanish masterpiece, first published in 1605, begins in the ordinary world of Alonso Quijano, a middle-aged man who loves nothing more than reading stories about knights and their adventures. Deciding to leave behind his own life to become a knight errant himself, Alonso changes his name to Don Quixote and sets off on a series of heroic deeds – some more successful than others!

“It is by rugged paths like these they go that scale the heights of immortality, unreached by those that falter here below.” Miguel de Cervantes

• Miguel De Cervantes Saavedra (Author)
• English (Subtitle)
• 800 Pages - 09/03/1997 (Publication Date) - Wordsworth Editions Ltd (Publisher)

This Amazon bestseller by Rick Yancey received the Goodreads Choice award. The Fifth Wave focuses on Cassie and Evan, two of the last human survivors on Earth following an alien invasion, dreading the imminent fourth wave. As a hero’s journey tale, Cassie must tackle both a physical, dangerous quest and attempt to understand the truth of the terrifying new world she’s inhabiting.

“Some things you don’t have to promise, you just do.” Rick Yancey

The hero in this Old English epic poem from an unknown author follows precisely the steps outlined by Joseph Campbell in The Hero with a Thousand Faces. From the Call to Adventure and the Refusal of the Call and all the way through to The Return – otherwise known as The Elixir- in which the hero brings something back from his adventure to benefit society. In the case of Beowulf, it’s the insight he has gained, which will keep his people safe going forward, and his blessing of peace,

“In the time I was given I lived in my own land, ruling my people well, never turning to treachery, or swearing to oaths contrary to right.” Beowulf

• Unknown (Author)
• 142 Pages - 11/20/2020 (Publication Date) - East India Publishing Company (Publisher)

A much-loved novel published in 1951 that follows the classic hero’s journey template, Siddhartha concerns the titular character on his quest for self-discovery. Deciding to leave his home in the ancient Nepalese kingdom of Kapilavastu, Siddhartha sets out as a wandering beggar seeking spiritual enlightenment. Through his journeying, the hero learns the importance of loving the world in its entirety and that a single, fixed belief does not constitute truth.

“Knowledge can be communicated, but not wisdom. One can find it, live it, do wonders through it, but one cannot communicate and teach it.” Hermann Hesse

• Hesse, Hermann (Author)
• 224 Pages - 09/19/2023 (Publication Date) - Wellfleet Press (Publisher)

With its mind-bending perspectives and mythic structure, it’s unclear how much of this book is fictional and how much is based on reality. With its clear mentor character (the Yaqui Indian shaman, Don Juan) and the dangerous journey at its heart that the protagonist is compelled to undertake, it’s a clear example of the hero’s journey story – though possibly one that pushes the boundaries of the genre more than any you’ve come across!

“We are men and our lot in life is to learn and be hurled into inconceivable new worlds.” Carols Castaneda

• Carlos Castaneda (Author)
• 263 Pages - 10/01/1972 (Publication Date) - Pocket Books (Publisher)

Awakening fifty years too soon from cryosleep, Amy finds herself aboard the spaceship Godspeed and in a terrifying situation. Realizing that her awakening didn’t happen by accident (The Call to Action), Amy has to accept the truth that someone else on board wants her dead – and that her parents, still in cryosleep, could be the next victims if she doesn’t figure out what’s going on. But meeting Eldest, the future leader of the ship, changes everything.

“Even when you are silent, even when you block out all noise, your body is still a cacophony of life.” Beth Revis

• Beth Revis (Author)
• 416 Pages - 02/02/2011 (Publication Date) - New York: Razor Bill (Publisher)

Blending fantasy and world mythology (both old and new), this novel widely divides its audience: it falls into the love it or loathe it category. But whatever your views on the plot and the writing, it’s an innovative take on the hero’s journey trope that reimagines the genre. Even its archetype, Shadow, is a vivid and disturbing (yet recognizable) hero figure – although, in typical Neil Gaiman style, the name ‘Shadow’ is also one of the character archetypes set out by Christopher Vogler’s author of the influential book, The Writer’s Journey.

“Even nothing cannot last forever.” Nail Gaiman

Fairy tales are great places to look for the hero’s journey stories being themselves, born from ancient folktales, legends, and myths. There are many versions of this tale, many of which feature very dark and disturbing themes, but the Grimms’ version is relatively tame. While reading, consider the extent to which the story is a hero’s or a heroine’s journey tale – thinking about the journey from outer to inner (and vice versa) and how this relates to the narrative of both the prince and Briar Rose herself.

“The pigeons upon the roof pulled out their heads from under their wings, looked round, and flew into the open country; the flies on the wall crept again; the fire in the kitchen burned up and flickered and cooked the meat; the joint began to turn and fizzle again.” Brothers Grimm

• Brothers Grimm (Author)
• 04/13/2024 (Publication Date) - HarperCollins Publishers (Publisher)

In his writings, the renowned psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Carl Jung outlined his ideas about archetypes, including archetypal journies, contending that humans’ unconscious minds are remarkably similar. This is why the hero’s journey stories have always permeated literature and art and continue to do so.

At its heart, the journey of Jane Eyre is the same as that taken by Luke Skywalker in Star Wars, despite the time and genre divide between the two. Just as Luke’s quest is about discovering truth and recognizing potential, so Jane’s journey is concerned with growth and independence – and there’s a disturbing truth in the attic to confront along the way, too.

Just as with Skywalker, Jane emerges at the end of the tale as a strong, loyal, passionate character who has faced a devastating reality and emerged from the ordeal with even greater reserves of tenacity than before. For more, check out our guide to the best British authors .

“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.” Charlotte Bronte

• Bronte, Charlotte (Author)
• 400 Pages - 06/01/2015 (Publication Date) - Digireads.com (Publisher)

A classic hero’s journey tale and the, at times, the most widely read book in the world, second only to The Bible, Bunyan’s book is concerned with the importance of learning and reading and the innate value of community. The hero, Christian, leaves his home and must face a series of trials – key to the genre. However, each tribulation or challenge must be thoroughly understood if a pilgrim is to progress. There’s even a final trial – a test of faith – which Christians must pass to access the Celestial City.

“The road of denial leads to the precipice of destruction.” John Bunyan

• Bunyan, John (Author)
• 400 Pages - 12/18/2003 (Publication Date) - Oxford University Press (Publisher)

The greatest literary detective of all time, Sherlock Holmes, is a hero archetype: The Researcher (the character of Indiana Jones also falls within this hero category). The Hound of the Baskervilles is one of the most well-known stories featuring Holmes and his trusty sidekick Dr. Watson. This is a great book for those interested in the hero’s journey genre, as the stages are so clearly delineated, from the Call to Action (Holmes’ enlistment to the case) through to The Return, whereby Watson files the case closed.

“The world is full of obvious things which nobody by any chance ever observes.” Arthur Conan Doyle

• Arthur Conan Doyle (Author)
• 174 Pages - 07/02/2007 (Publication Date) - Penguin Books (Publisher)

In this classic by a 19th century author , we meet Jim going about his daily life in the inn that his family owns. Following the Call to Action, where the boy becomes fascinated with the ‘black spot’ presented to the old captain, Billy Bones, who’s staying at the inn, Jim becomes embroiled in an epic adventure on the high seas in search of buried treasure.

“We are all travelers in the wilderness of this world, and the best we can find in our travels is an honest friend.” Robert Louis Stevenson

• Robert Louis Stevenson (author) (Author)
• 336 Pages - 09/14/2018 (Publication Date) - Wordsworth Editions Ltd (Publisher)

Testament to the power of myth is the enduring popularity of this story, which recounts the adventures of Jason and the Argonauts as they quest for the golden fleece. The epic, written – incredibly – in the third century BC, remains so widely read that there are not only multiple versions available on amazon, but you can listen to it as an audiobook, too! It features all the archetypal stages of the genre, including the Refusal of the Call, whereby Jason initially urges the heroes to elect another leader for the voyage. Once chosen, though, Heracles insists that Jason can take up the mantle, confident he can lead the band to victory.

“But friendly Juno shrouds/Her favorite heroes in a veil of clouds.” Apollonius

• Rhodius, Apollonius (Author)
• 129 Pages - 11/11/2022 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)

A bestseller that was also received extremely well by critics, this novel is a hero’s journey tale with a difference. Hazel, our protagonist, is sixteen years old and suffering from thyroid cancer that has spread to her lungs. Her parents insist she attends a support group (Crossing the Threshold) where she meets Augustus Walters, a seventeen-year-old osteosarcoma survivor. It’s now a Hollywood blockbuster movie that captures Amy’s journey into love.

“My name is Hazel. Augustus Waters was the great star-crossed love of my life.” John Green

When fourteen-year-old Stanley is wrongly convicted of stealing, he’s sent to a correctional camp where the inmates are forced by the warden to dig holes, seemingly at random. The story is comprised of three individual but interconnected tales. It makes for a fascinating take on the hero’s journey genre, the pattern of which can be seen both in the three stand-alone stories and in the overarching triptych.

“You’re responsible for yourself. You messed up your life, and it’s up to you to fix it.” Louis Sachar

• Sachar, Louis (Author)
• 240 Pages - 04/13/2024 (Publication Date) - Bloomsbury (Publisher)

This novelization of the Hollywood movie is an exciting account of a team of interstellar explorers sent through a newly-discovered wormhole – and what the ramifications of this mean for humanity. Despite being written thousands of years after Argonautica, the story shares a remarkably similar bone structure, as our hero literally navigates new worlds in a quest to return with the solution that will save the human race from extinction.

“We’ve always defined ourself by our ability to overcome the impossible.” Jonathan Nolan

• Keyes, Greg (Author)
• 288 Pages - 11/11/2014 (Publication Date) - Titan Books (Publisher)

Divergent by Veronica Roth offers a dystopian version of a future in which society is divided into five factions, each representing a certain virtue. Beatrice has been assigned the Abnegation faction but feels a Call to Action: in her heart, she knows she belongs to Dauntless. While set in a distant future, the tale follows the traditional archetypal hero’s journey; after the Call, Beatrice (now Tris) must resist several temptations, cross a threshold, and must survive a final ordeal to emerge at the novel’s finale, transformed and triumphant.

“I feel like someone breathed new air into my lungs. I am not Abnegation. I am not Dauntless. I am Divergent.” Veronica Roth

Beautiful and strange, this novel uses the mythic structure as both framework and plot. We follow a couple across a mystical, fiction, post-Arthurian landscape that is as shrouded in mist as their fast-disappearing memories. Both are convinced that they once had a son and so set out on a quest to find him. The author wrote the book as a meditation on collective memory, making it both an example and an interrogation of the hero’s journey tale.

“I’m wondering if without our memories, there’s nothing for it but for our love to fade and die.” Kazuo Ishiguro

• Ishiguro, Kazuo (Author)
• 384 Pages - 01/28/2016 (Publication Date) - Faber & Faber (Publisher)

Literally Crossing the Threshold via a fall down a rabbit hole, Alice arrives in Wonderland, where nothing is as it seems, and both adventure and danger lurk around every corner. But is the Caterpillar, The White Rabbit, or The Mad Hatter the Mentor? Just as with everything else in the story, it’s a riddle. But what’s for sure is that the story follows the classic monomyth template as set out by Joseph Campbell.

“‘I could tell you my adventures – beginning from this morning,’ said Alice a little timidly: ‘but it’s no use going back to yesterday because I was a different person then.’” Lewis Carroll

• Carroll, Lewis (Author)
• 101 Pages - 05/06/2021 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)

In some hero’s journey books, the stages are subtle – you can find them, but you may need to look closely. As in Alice in Wonderland, the phases are made obvious in this novel: the kids literally step over the threshold of the magical wardrobe and into the enchanted world of Narnia. The Refusal of the Call comes when the children initially turn back, fearful of their ability to navigate their way home. They return and take on the challenges set for them by one of literature’s ultimate Mentor figures, Aslan.

“All shall be done, but it may be harder than you think.” C.S. Lewis

• C.S. Lewis (Author)
• 171 Pages - 01/01/2009 (Publication Date) - HarperCollins Children's Books (Publisher)

Just because the hero’s journey genre is as old as time doesn’t mean it’s not subject to continual innovation – as in this novel, where the hero’s Mentor and biggest challenge to overcome is…literally himself. Fight Club is a cult phenomenon that’s made the leap to mainstream hit, helped along by the success of the great screenwriting featured in the Hollywood movie version of the book. Visionary, satirical, and a personal enlightenment journey like no other, Fight Club gleefully reimagines the hero’s journey genre to spectacular effect.

“If I could wake up in a different place, at a different time, could I wake up as a different person?” Chuck Palahniuk

• Palahniuk, Chuck (Author)
• 208 Pages - 10/02/1997 (Publication Date) - Vintage (Publisher)

Melanie Smith is a freelance content and creative writer from Gloucestershire, UK, where she lives with her daughter, long-suffering partner, and cat, The Magical Mr. Bobo. Her blog posts and articles feature regularly in magazines and websites around the world.

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30 Hero’s Journey Books for Middle Schoolers

• Middle School Education

Introduction

Middle school is a time when young readers begin exploring new worlds, experiencing personal growth, and discovering their own identities. The Hero’s Journey, a narrative template that involves a hero venturing out on an adventure, encountering challenges and transformations, and returning home with newfound wisdom and insight, is a thrilling way to engage students’ imagination while also teaching them valuable life lessons. Here are 30 Hero’s Journey books that are perfect for middle schoolers.

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
• Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
• The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
• The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
• The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
• Coraline by Neil Gaiman
• Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
• Alanna: The First Adventure by Tamora Pierce
• The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman
• Gregor the Overlander by Suzanne Collins
• Inkheart by Cornelia Funke
• Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
• Holes by Louis Sachar
• Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
• Chronicles of Prydain: The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander
• A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket
• Matilda by Roald Dahl
• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster
• City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
• Divergent by Veronica Roth
• Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
• Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
• The Maze Runner by James Dashner
• His Dark Materials: The Subtle Knife by Philip Pullman
• Redwall by Brian Jacques
• Ranger’s Apprentice: The Ruins of Gorlan by John Flanagan
• The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
• Septimus Heap: Magyk by Angie Sage
• The Shadow Children: Among the Hidden by Margaret Peterson Haddix

The Hero’s Journey is a timeless narrative structure that will continue to enthrall and entertain middle schoolers for generations to come. These 30 books offer an excellent starting point for students eager to embark on their own journey of personal growth, self-discovery, and adventure, while also broadening their literary horizons and encouraging a lifelong love of reading.

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Best Short Stories for Teaching the Hero’s Journey

Looking to shake up your approach to teaching the Hero’s Journey? Whether you’re looking to replace a novel with a range of short stories or to use them as additional texts, this post reveals 8 short stories that will get the job done.

Gearing up to teach the Hero’s Journey? Before you grab your go-to book from the shelf, I urge you to consider an alternative approach—using short stories.

While there are plenty of great novels out there to emphasize the Hero’s Journey, it was always a challenge to choose just one. Did I want to go with a popular classic, like The Odyssey ? Or an engaging modern text, like The Hunger Games ? That very challenge is what first got me thinking—What if my students could dive into multiple examples of the Hero’s Journey? Besides, heroes come in all shapes and sizes, right? So, in an attempt to expose my students to a classic narrative archetype and a variety of texts, I turned to short stories. And, honestly, I haven’t turned back since.

Whether you’re looking for short stories to take center stage or serve as a stepping stone before jumping into a full-length novel, they make the perfect addition to a Hero’s Journey unit. Keep reading to learn the advantages of teaching the Hero’s Journey using short stories and 8 short story titles that are sure to enhance your lessons.

What Is the Hero’s Journey?

Whether this is your first time teaching the Hero’s Journey or you need a quick review, let’s go over the basics. The Hero’s Journey is a narrative framework coined by Joseph Campbell in his book called The Hero With A Thousand Faces , published in 1949. However, the concept and pattern of the journey have been around since the earliest days of storytelling. It outlines the transformative journey of a protagonist who overcomes obstacles, faces inner and outer challenges, and emerges with newfound strength and wisdom. 

While variations certainly exist across different narratives, cultures, and uses, the classic phases of the Hero’s Journey include the following:

• The Ordinary World: An introduction to the protagonist’s everyday life, relationships, and any challenges or limitations they face are first introduced.
• The Call to Adventure: The protagonist receives a compelling invitation or challenge that initiates the on the heroic journey.
• Refusal of the Call: The protagonist resists the call to adventure due to fear, doubt, or a sense of inadequacy.
• Meeting the Mentor: The protagonist encounters a mentor figure who provides guidance, advice, and assistance needed for the journey.
• Crossing the Threshold: The protagonist leaves the familiar and ordinary world behind and enters the unknown.
• Tests, Allies, and Enemies: The protagonist encounters various obstacles,enemies, and allies that test their will, determination and character.
• Approach to the Inmost Cave: The protagonist prepares for a significant challenge or confrontation, symbolizing their innermost fears, doubts, or weaknesses.
• Ordeal: The protagonist is pushed to their limits when faced with their greatest challenge, undergoing a transformative experience.
• Reward: After overcoming the ordeal, the protagonist is rewarded with something, often knowledge, that empowers them to continue their journey.
• The Road Back: The protagonist begins a journey back to the ordinary world.
• Resurrection: They face a final challenge, where they must apply everything they have learned and experienced.
• Return with the Elixir: The protagonist returns and is reunited with the ordinary world, having been transformed by “the elixir”—an object, knowledge, or insight—for the greater good.

Why Teach the Hero’s Journey with Short Stories?

You can apply the Hero’s Journey to a wide variety of literary texts, including myths, fairy tales, novels, short stories, and plays. Heck, you can even track the Hero’s Journey in movies, too. No matter which avenue you use, the Hero’s Journey encourages students to analyze plot structure, character motivation and development, and universal themes.

It gets them shrinking about essential questions like, are heroes born or are they made? What defines a hero? How can an individual change through taking heroic action? What can we learn about ourselves through studying a protagonist’s Hero’s Journey?

While many teachers opt for teaching the Hero’s Journey through a novel, here’s why I love using short stories to do so:

• Concise Storytelling: Short stories allow students to explore the Hero’s Journey in a concise format. This brevity allows for you to utilize short stories in various ways. Have students explore multiple examples of the Hero’s Journey, comparing and contrasting the variations. Alternatively, you can use a short story as Hero’s Journey review or as an introductory experience before diving into a full-length novel.
• Engaging Narratives: Given the waning attention spans of today’s students, it can be challenging to keep them engaged and on track with a longer text. On the other hand, short stories captivate students with their fast-paced narratives and intriguing characters. Short stories can make it through a 12-phase Hero’s Journey in a matter of pages. They often pack a punch with their themes and conflicts, giving students plenty to work with.
• Diverse Perspectives: Heroes come from different places and backgrounds, and possess various strengths and skills. It’s not a one-size-fits-all thing. Therefore, short stories allow you to expose your students to a range of protagonists and the different journeys they take. In fact, students can analyze multiple heroes in the same amount of time it would take to read an entire novel. In turn, you expose students to different voices, perspectives, and cultural experiences, fostering empathy and understanding in addition to highlighting the Hero’s Journey. Talk about two birds with one stone!
• Accessibility and Differentiation: Short stories are a great way to make literature accessible for students of varying abilities and interests. Teaching the Hero’s Journey through these shorter narratives is a great way to set students up for success by assigning a text based on their reading and comprehension level. And, if you ask me, it’s far easier for teachers to manage various short stories than multiple novels.

8 Short Stories for Teaching the Hero’s Journey

If you’ve made it this far down in the post, I’ve convinced you to at least consider using short stories when teaching the Hero’s Journey. (You won’t regret it.) But, let’s take it one step further, shall we? Instead of starting from the drawing board, here are 8 short stories that are perfect for teaching the Hero’s Journey in secondary ELA.

1. “A Sound of Thunder” by Ray Bradbury

Would it be a great short story list without at least one Bradbury title? “A Sound of Thunder” may not follow every stage of the Hero’s Journey in a traditional sense, but the protagonist, Eckels, certainly experiences his own form of the journey. Bradbury’s story incorporates elements of the hero’s transformation, the challenges faced, and the revelation of the consequences of their actions as Eckles ultimately learns the hard truth that even the smallest actions can have big consequences.

2. “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” by James Thurber

This is another short story that doesn’t completely follow the journey in the most traditional sense. However, students will enjoy tracking protagonist Walter Mitty’s own form of his Hero’s Journey. Walter Mitty’s journey involves vivid daydreams that serve as an escape from his mundane reality. Students can track the stages of the Hero’s Journey as Mr. Mitty sets out on a quest for self-expression, courage, and embracing the extraordinary within.

3. “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

This is not your average Hero’s Journey, making it the perfect challenge text for advanced students. Students can track how the unnamed narrator turns to the titular yellow wallpaper as her supernatural aid, becoming the catalyst for her journey of self-discovery.

4. “Thank you, Ma’am” by Langston Hughes

Students will appreciate the simple realness of Roger’s Hero’s Journey. What begins as an attempted purse robbery, Roger is faced with a different kind of call to “adventure.” Ironically, the woman he tried to steal from, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones, serves as his mentor during this journey, ultimately leading him to gain a newfound understanding of the importance of kindness and compassion.

5. “The Most Dangerous Game” by Richard Connell

The story’s protagonist and skilled hunter, Sanger Rainsford, goes on a harrowing Hero’s Journey when he falls off his yacht and winds up stranded on a mysterious island. Suddenly, he finds himself caught in a deadly game of survival. (Dun, dun, dun.) However, by the end of his journey, Rainsford returns to civilization with a newfound perspective and appreciation for life.

6. “Raymond’s Run” by Toni Cade Bambara

Squeaky, the story’s young protagonist, is a talented runner who unexpectedly embarks on her own Hero’s Journey. While she is initially focused on her own ambitions, Squeaky’s perspective shifts as she heads down a path of self-discovery and compassion. By the end of her journey, Squeaky transforms from a self-centered competitor to a caring sister who is able to support her brother.

7. “Marigolds” by by Eugenia Collier

The story’s protagonist, Lizabeth, finds herself on a transformative journey initiated by frustrations with the poverty and hopelessness in her community. By the end, despite the struggles around her, she is able to find moments of beauty and to approach others with kindness and understanding. Ultimately, Lizabeth’s Hero’s Journey is one of learning empathy and self-realization in the face of adversity.

8.  “To Build a Fire” by Jack London Does this story follow the traditional Hero’s Journey? Nope. But that’s what makes it the perfect companion text to a storyline that follows the traditional journey structure and stages. In London’s story, the protagonist, simply known as “the man,” sets out on a journey through the frozen Yukon wilderness. The man’s survival skills and overall resilience are tested again and again as he faces numerous challenges and tests throughout his journey. Rather than ending with a traditional elixir or triumphant return, the man learns the power of nature and the consequences of overestimating one’s abilities. (Yikes!)

There you have it, my teacher friend! If you’re looking to shake up your approach to the Hero’s Journey, short stories may just be what you need. The stories above offer diverse examples of the Hero’s Journey, showcasing different characters, settings, and themes. As a result, your students can explore variations of this classic narrative structure, laying the groundwork for engaging discussions, a cumulative compare and contrast activity, or analytical essay.

Have any other titles to add to the list? Don’t forget to share your favorite short stories for teaching the Hero’s Journey in the comments below!

1 thought on “Best Short Stories for Teaching the Hero’s Journey”

I was searching for short stories that fit the monomyth and came across “Through the Tunnel” by Dorris Lessing. It’s fantastic and fits beautifully. Thanks for your list!

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What to Read When Teaching the Hero’s Journey

In a previous blog post , I discussed how I teach the Hero’s Journey and a project that my students complete to demonstrate their understanding of it. Below are a list of novels, short stories, and poems which each have a protagonist set off on or forced into an adventure and change as a result of it, not necessarily for the better.

Novels  

To Kill a Mockingbird : This story takes place in Maycomb, Alabama during the Great Depression when quality of life was low and racism was high. The story’s perspective is that of a little girl named Scout Finch who is forced into adventure when her father, Atticus, a prominent lawyer in the community, takes on a case to defend a black man who is accused of raping a white woman. The whole Finch family has to weather the backlash of Atticus’s decision which in turn leads to young Scout being educated in the essential goodness and evil of humanity.

Don Quixote: The protagonist of the novel is Don Quixote, a man so obsessed with fantasy novels of chivalrous knights that he sets out on a quest of his own imagining. Although Don Quixote is only a hero in his own mind, the series of misadventures he embarks upon leaves an impact on himself and the unfortunate people he forces his delusions upon.

Lord of the Flies: After a plane full of young boys crash lands on a deserted island, the protagonist, Ralph, is tasked with leading the group and ensuring their survival until help arrives. Life outside of civilization proves to be trying for the boys as baser instincts and the struggle for power begin to take hold of them. As the boys’ integrity and innocence begin to dissolve, Ralph learns of the savagery within himself and the rest of humanity.

Short Stories

A Sound of Thunder: This thrilling short story by Ray Bradbury tells of a group of hunters who travel back in time to hunt the ultimate prey, the Tyrannosaurus Rex. As with most adventures in time travel, the hunters’ actions have far reaching effects, educating them in the harsh lesson that even the smallest actions have consequences.

Marigolds: On the brink between child and woman, the protagonist, called Lizabeth by her brother, tries to come to terms with the reality of her impoverished life as a black girl living in rural Maryland during the Great Depression. Unable to cope with her helplessness and degradation, she sets out on an endeavor to destroy the only thing she had known to be beautiful, destroying her innocence in the process and spurring her on into adulthood.

Thank you, Ma’am: After a purse theft gone wrong, a boy named Roger is at the mercy of the indomitable Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones. Rather than call the police, Mrs. Jones drags Roger to her home to wash him, feed him, and then send him away with money along with an enduring lesson on choices and kindness.

The Odyssey : Homer’s epic poem is one of the oldest examples of the Hero’s Journey archetype. Odysseus, the protagonist of the epic, is a hero who after having fought in the battle of Troy wishes to return to his kingdom of Ithaca and to his wife Penelope. However, all manner of perils lie in his way including monsters, temptresses, and the wrath of an angry sea god. Unlike most Homeric heroes, Odysseus actually changes over the course of his journey, learning the importance of controlling his temper and pride.

The Epic of Gilgamesh: At the beginning of the epic, Gilgamesh is a hedonistic and ravenous king who rules his kingdom cruelly, but is soon changed after the gods bless him with a friend who is nearly a match for the god-king’s greatness, the beastman Enkidu. Together, Gilgamesh and Enkidu embark on fantastic adventures until Enkidu is struck with illness by the gods and perishes. Mourning his friend and fearing his own death, Gilgamesh embarks on a final adventure to achieve immortality but instead gains the closest to immortality that a mortal can hope for.

Inferno: The protagonist of the poem, Dante, must delve into the deepest pits of hell in order to reach heaven where Dante’s wife, Beatrice, awaits him. Through the horrifying yet vivid imagery of the underworld, Dante learns of the nature of justice as well as evil and God’s will.

If you are looking for a fun and engaging classroom activity, check out last week’s blog post !

One Comment

I never thought of "THank You, M'am" as hero's journey but TOTALLY will add that to my unit!

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The hero’s journey: a teaching tool.

The basic idea is that many stories share the same structure, and one particular structure is The Hero’s Journey.  One quick caution about the guy who developed this theory, Joseph Campbell.  I am no Campbell scholar, but just reading over his book list, it seems he mixed his Christian roots with the popular liberal ideas that all religions are really the same–as if the stories of Christ making this kind of hero’s journey were no different from ones about Buddha.  But of course, this doesn’t take into account that Christ was holy and could make atonement for sinners, while Budda wasn’t holy and therefore couldn’t.  (It’s really a question of typology, which I’ve discussed at length in my Christ in Literature series .  For a short summary, though, just remember that Created things point to God, and created heroes like Frodo Baggins aren’t just similar to Christ, but point to us to Him.)

The Hero’s Journey: A Tool to Get Developing Readers Under the Surface

As a college literature teacher, I sometimes have students in my classes who are there simply because they are getting their literature requirement “out of the way” (as they put it). But because I believe that a lifelong love of good literature is worthwhile, one of my goals is to help these students start to enjoy what they read in my classes. I want them to enjoy the practice of reading, and to be able to get under the surface of stories they encounter.

Many secondary teachers and home school parents feel the same way I do. They search for ways to get young people interested in stories and to help them see how the stories work so that they can understand the story on a deeper level—and enjoy it more.

When I have introduced this formula to my students, I’ve found that they connect with it immediately. Even students who previously showed little interest in literature start to open up, making connections to not just novels, but also narrative poetry (such as Beowulf ), film, and even Biblical narrative.

Here’s a summary of the Hero’s Journey (in Vogler’s condensed form). I should note that you probably won’t find the steps exactly in this order in every story—but you will probably find a similar variation.

I. Separation from the Ordinary World

In the first stage of the story, the hero leaves his ordinary life in order to go on a journey or gain some sort of experience.

• Ordinary World: When the story begins, the hero is immature or inexperienced, simply going about his daily business.
• Call to Adventure: Somehow the hero receives a call to action or adventure—he is called to take up a quest or accomplish a task.
• Refusal of the Call: The hero is more interested in self-preservation, and initially refuses to go on the journey.
• Meeting the Mentor: The hero receives counsel from a mentor who encourages the hero to be willing to live for a higher cause—and accept the call to action.

II. Descent into the Special World

In this stage, the hero is confronted with tests and battles that try his courage and perseverance.

• Crossing the Threshold: The hero makes the decision to attempt the journey. He is changing his values and growing in virtue.
• Tests, Allies, and Enemies: On the journey, the hero faces trials, and he or she meets friends and enemies.
• Approach to the Inmost Cave: The hero approaches an isolated place where danger is most intense. At this point, the hero must be willing to suffer great loss—even death—for a cause that is greater than himself.
• The Ordeal: In this dangerous place, the hero is confronted with his or her greatest fear.
• Reward: The hero survives the ordeal and gains some sort of reward. At this point, the story shows that self-sacrificing virtue will be rewarded.

III. Return to the Ordinary World

In this stage, the hero returns to a normal existence once again, having gained something positive from his experience.

• Road Back: The hero plans to complete the journey home.
• Resurrection: The hero faces a final life-and-death ordeal, and amazingly survives. This is often a miraculous escape from death. Once again, the hero demonstrates self-sacrifice for a higher cause, and is rewarded for that courage.
• Return with Elixir: Having been transformed into someone who is virtuous, courageous, and self-sacrificing, the hero returns to the ordinary world with something that brings benefit to his community. It may be an object, or it may simply be the example of his life.

The Development of the Hero Through the Journey

As I introduce this story structure, most of my students immediately make connections to books they’ve read and movies they’ve seen. But then I shift the focus from the story structure to the development of the main character. We look at how the character changes through the Hero’s Journey.

As we discuss the hero’s development, we see that the hero’s fundamental problem at the beginning of the story is his unwillingness to become committed to a cause that is bigger than himself. The hero refuses to change at first. But as he receives counsel from a mentor, and as his conscience prods him to do what is right, he starts to change his values and grow in nobility. By the end of the story, the main character has risked his life to do something good—and can truly be called a hero. He has become a different person, someone who is willing to die for something that is more important than self, and someone that the students can see, at least in some ways, as virtuous.

Hands-On Analysis

Here’s a worksheet that I’ve used to get students familiar with using the Hero’s Journey to analyze a story. In the chart I show how Bilbo (in J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit ) and Moses (in the Exodus story) both become less self-centered and more self-sacrificial through their journeys. As the students work through the worksheet, they can also take a favorite story of their own and see how it fits into the Hero’s Journey structure.

So, what do you guys think?  Does this seem familiar?  Thanks so much to Nathan for bringing this to us!

Also, if you’d like to print this out, CLICK HERE for a downloadable copy.

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I have used this material extensively with my middle school students – not just the journey archetype, but several other archetypal plot lines. They love it. It is a fabulous “organizational structure” for approaching literature. I do not consider Joseph Cambell’s work to be a Christian perspective of myth and archetype, especially since he borrowed so heavily from Jung and considers the Genesis story purely metaphorical. Leland Ryken, on the other hand, has published extensively on this subject from a deeply Christian perspective. I highly recommend his Windows to the World and Dictionary of Biblical Imagery.

Mary Kelly, Wow. Thanks for the feedback. I’m glad to hear you’ve found the information helpful. I would love to hear about the other archetypes you mention. And thanks for a little more info on Campbell, as well as pointing us to Ryken’s contribution. I will definitely check it out and put it in our eStore if it looks like something our readers need.

oh my goodness. this is a dream post! I love it so much! So much meat AND a handout? Thanks for sharing. Filing this one away for when the boys get a little older! Thanks!

So happy to hear it hits your sweet spot, Melissa. Nathan is a really fun and thoughtful reader/teacher.

Funny story: A few years ago I attended a writers’ workshop on fantasy fiction, taught by a college professor. As the professor sketched the hero’s journey (using a variation of Nathan’s 12-point outline), I watched the jaw of a fellow attendee drop lower and lower. Finally she said, “Do you realize this sounds a lot like . . . Jesus?” C. S. Lewis made the same point, in Miracles (I think that’s where I read it). In his spiritual memoir Lewis recalls an evening before his conversion, when a hard-bitten skeptic of his acquaintance remarked what a “rum thing” it was that in the gospel story, all the myths of the dying god seemed to actually come true. Campbell didn’t see the connection, but just lumped all biblical literature into the category of myth. George Lucas was strongly influenced by him, which is why the plot structure of Star Wars IV-VI follows the 12-point outline so closely. Obviously there’s a reason why the Hero’s Journey resonates so strongly with mankind; it’s written on our hearts. Good post!

What a great story!

Great stuff! I use this with my middle school students (and up) as well. Most all of them are familiar with The Lion King so I use that to demonstrate the big concepts. Next they analyze the original Star Wars. Form and structure are beautiful aren’t they? Blessings, Renee

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Hero's Journey

About this Interactive

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The hero's journey is an ancient story pattern that can be found in texts from thousands of years ago or in newly released Hollywood blockbusters. This interactive tool will provide students with background on the hero's journey and give them a chance to explore several of the journey's key elements. Students can use the tool to record examples from a hero's journey they have read or viewed or to plan out a hero's journey of their own.

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Teachers, Students, and the Hero’s Journey

Joseph Campbell’s monomyth of the Hero’s Journey maps easily onto the annual cycle of growth, struggle, crisis, and opportunity faced by every teacher and student in every classroom.

"The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek." -- Joseph Campbell

Joseph Campbell, an American mythologist who studied myths from all over the world, created the famous Hero's Journey , a monomyth that explains how each individual goes through continuous cycles of change and transformation. Nothing could be more accurate than when we apply this monomyth to educators, students, and schools, because the teaching and learning process and emotional connection are real-life cycles of continual challenges, births of new ideas, successes, and transformations.

Steps Along the Path

As I reflect upon this past school year and the Hero Journeys that I observed within my own life and those teachers I've worked beside, I return to a strong teaching practice that also recognizes the hero's thousand faces: modeling. I'm learning that modeling our own Hero's Journey for our students provides a powerful teaching and life tool. It offers opportunities for reflection, problem solving, hindsight, foresight, and cognitive flexibility for sitting beside students whose struggles, celebrations, and identities change and develop unceasingly. By being aware and alive on our educational journey, we can begin to model empathy and understanding for one another. We can embrace all that we do, experiencing it as a heroic adventure with no predictable outcomes. Each moment, hour, day, week, and month, we enter into a cycle and travel toward change, challenges, and new beginnings.

We begin with an embrace of our ordinary existence. Life feels neutral here. As teachers, we return to a classroom with students who will be learning beside us for the next several months. We anticipate and encounter new student lists, schedules, back-to-school nights, upcoming assessments, grade-level and district meetings, and the list goes on. We're aware of our personal lives and the relationships and experiences that coexist with our professional responsibilities.

Call to Adventure

We meet our new students and begin to see novel behaviors, encounter unfamiliar and familiar words, and observe the mini-worlds that each student carries into our classrooms. We notice apathy, excitement, negativity, enthusiasm, and an array of cultures and belief systems. Questions ensue:

• How can I meet the academic, social, and emotional needs of so many students?
• Where do I begin?
• What were the most significant challenges in years past, and how will those help me now?

We realize that we'll need the help of someone who is possibly more experienced, or who has shared similar challenges with this struggle before us. In this part of the journey, we begin to seek the resources we'll need to meet the challenges. Maybe we turn to the person and share our frustrations, hopes, and ideas. Maybe we reach out to parents in a way that emphasizes collaboration with a gentle underlying request: "I need your input!" We ask ourselves:

• What are the realistic goals for this child or adolescent?
• How can I begin to create a safe environment and a connection with this individual so that mistakes and struggles are embraced?
• How can I begin to share and model gathering my problem-solving resources so that my students feel and see my struggles and calls for assistance?

It's time to step outside of our comfort zone and try new ways of being with the situation or individual that has stimulated change and challenge. We cross the threshold of sameness by listening to learn rather than listening to respond. We have left the ordinary world.

Trials and Hard Work

We now begin to ask the difficult questions that might propel a few more deep dives into reflection and observation, while noticing how our own triggers can escalate the impending challenge or perceived crisis. These questions are for students and teachers:

• What do I need?
• What can my class do to assist me?
• What can my teachers do to assist me?
• How do I handle this negative situation?
• Who are my heroes? What character traits do I admire in these individuals?
• How will I know when I'm on the right track?
• What are three positive emotions that I often feel? What are three negative emotions?
• What are my strengths?
• What are two or three challenges or obstacles that prevent me from reaching these small or large goals?

Approach and Crisis

This is where we approach our worst fear. We intuit that a change in relationship, instruction, dialogue, or physical movement is necessary. We begin to understand that the status quo can no longer be sustained. We enter into a type of crisis and intense difficulty. We understand that crises induce movement and change. On the other side of the crisis coin is opportunity, which lets us learn and grow from our darkest hours. We face our vulnerabilities, triggers, worn-out belief systems, and long-held private logic. During times of high stress, it becomes critical for us to provide emotional first aid to one another. Once we demonstrate that we can be with one another at our worst, we begin to build trust.

We claim our treasures by acquiring a new perspective and a personal power that redefines our experiences and relationships. Rather than becoming caught up in an escalating conflict or weighed down by guilt and shame, we learn the skills that help us drain off hostility and frustration, and we look at our situation through a new lens.

We begin seeing difficult behaviors as opportunities to teach young people, others, and ourselves how to manage conflict and solve problems. We see our role as teacher expanding to include our ability to restore emotional equilibrium in our classrooms and schools.

We have upgraded to a new level. We have embraced a perspective of growth and have learned, connected, and reshaped who we are constantly becoming!

A Template for Growth

Below is Matthew Winkler's TED-Ed video that teaches students about the Hero's Journey and how our lives, as well as the movies and books that we enjoy, mirror and model the stages of growth, crisis, and opportunity.

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The Hero's Journey: Stages, Steps, and Examples

Remember when you were younger, probably around middle school age, and your teacher introduced the Greek mythology lesson? It was such an exciting time of reading books like Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief . Maybe you fell in love with Percy, a lovable and relatable young boy struggling with his identity. Or maybe you were a part of the dystopian crave and fell in love with Katniss Everdeen from Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games . Either way, this may have been your first introduction to the hero's journey (we're sure you've seen the templates). After all, the hero's journey is all around us!

If you fell in love with reading a hero's journey archetype and want to try to create your own modern hero, then you've come to the perfect place. We're going to explore the crucial steps of a hero's journey and what they entail, so you can have a template through which to write your own story. Your questions act as our call to action (you'll understand what we mean by that shortly). But first, let's define a hero's journey. After all, how can we possibly evaluate the steps of a hero's journey if we don't even have a solid definition?

The hero's journey

A hero ventures forth from the world of common day into a region of supernatural wonder: fabulous forces are there encountered and a decisive victory is won: The hero comes back from this mysterious adventure with the power to bestow boons on his fellow man. The Hero With a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell

The hero's journey is the story of a hero who leaves the ordinary world to go on an adventure full of peril. On it, the hero will gain both adversaries and allies, and will face a great evil. The hero will also face his shadow self, which is perhaps the most frightening antagonist of all.

Campbell references 17 total steps in the hero's journey. Wait a minute, 17 steps? That seems like a lot. Don't worry! Depending on who you ask, the number of steps and what those steps look like will differ, though they all follow a similar template. The hero's journey is commonly accepted to have 12 main steps. To make it even simpler on you, these steps can actually be broken down into three stages: the departure, the initiation, and the return.

Stage 1: the departure

The departure is just as you might expect. This is the stage where the protagonist is introduced, typically in a modern, realistic setting, and we are introduced to some struggles the protagonist may be experiencing or questions they may have about their own identity. This stage can be broken into our first four steps.

• The ordinary world : As we said, we are first introduced to our protagonist and soon-to-be hero in the reality we know. It is just as the first step is listed: the ordinary world. There is no magic, mayhem, or supernatural creatures evident in this ordinary world. It is the world the protagonist has known all their life.
• Call to adventure : This is one of the steps you may be most familiar with, as it's one of the most commonly known phrases in literature. Regardless of what genre you are writing, your hero has a call to action. After all, there must be a reason why the protagonist leaves the mundane, comfortable lifestyle they've lived up until now. This is the moment where the journey or quest is initiated: a problem, challenge, or quest is presented to the protagonist, and they must decide to leave behind their ordinary lives to face new challenges. Whether the protagonist is immediately threatened, a family member is threatened, or they see something they shouldn't have, it is up to the protagonist to respond to the call.
• Refusal of the call : Wow, isn't it so cool that the hero was discovered by some other world (or they discovered it!) and now they get to embark on this awesome journey? Yes, well, sometimes. Despite how amazing it may seem to be called to accept a quest (hence the reason why this archetype is so popular in literature), the protagonist may not be feeling that excitement. In fact, it's likely that the protagonist is feeling nervous, anxious, scared, hesitant, and thus, resistant to the call at first (don't worry, they'll give in eventually).
• Meeting the mentor/supernatural aid : Okay, so the protagonist is done refusing the call. Maybe they've gotten over their fears, or maybe something happened that makes it impossible for them to continue to deny their inevitable quest. Yay! Now it's time for our protagonist to meet their mentor. The mentor can be supernatural or not, but they act as a teacher, trainer, and instructor for the protagonist. After all, the protagonist is going to need some serious guidance once they've been booted out of their ordinary world. This step involves a lot of trust, though, as the protagonist may barely know their mentor. This step also involves the passing on of certain tools and equipment the protagonist may need to succeed on their journey. These can be special powers or physical instruments.

Stage 2: the initiation

Now that you've spent a decent chunk of time introducing your protagonist (and hero!) and their conflict, it's time to head into the second stage of the hero's journey: the initiation. Before you do this, though, ensure you've checked off the first four items on the previous list. It is crucial that you meet these criteria for a successful hero's journey. After all, the hero can't be truly initiated into their new world if you have not established their old world, their main conflict, and the introduction of their next steps.

This next stage will take up the largest portion of your story. You should fill it with lots of new characters, settings, and trials and tests for your protagonist to endure. This is also a stage where you should focus a lot on character development for your protagonist. No person is going to go through a massive journey and end up the same person they once were when everything is said and done. Take this time to think about how you want your protagonist to change and what it's going to take to accomplish that change.

• Crossing the first threshold : This is the point at which the hero decides to embark on the adventure and cross over into the unknown, leaving his or her ordinary world behind. This is called the threshold because there is something or someone acting as a literal barrier between the protagonist's ordinary world and their new world. Beyond the threshold lies trials and tribulations and potential risks and dangers. Once the protagonist takes that first step beyond this threshold, there is no returning to the life they once knew. This is where the hero's actual journey truly begins.
• Introduction to tests, friends, and foe : This is the step of the story where the cast of characters expands and a new setting, the new world, is introduced. The protagonist may be lost in their new world, so they must evaluate the new people around them to identify potential allies, enemies, or morally ambiguous characters. Trust is established or denied. Just like anyone would struggle with encountering anew environment, the protagonist will endure some struggles of their own, but this is how they'll determine who is friend and who is foe, establishing other character roles in the process. The rules of the ordinary world do not apply to this new world, so hopefully the protagonist meets some good people who will teach him the new ways of life.
• Approaching the innermost cave : At this point on the hero's journey, they have left all semblance of the ordinary world behind. This step marks the preparation for the main event of the journey. The protagonist may gather materials and even other characters, if they're trustworthy enough, to take on the rest of the steps of the quest with them. The cave acts as a metaphor for what the protagonist is about to endure: risk, danger, darkness, and even potential loss. This step also includes some of the tests leading up to the large test yet, which happens to be the next step in the hero's journey.
• The ordeal : Buckle up, this is about to be a wild ride! That's right, your hero has finally made it to one of the biggest challenges of all. The protagonist is no longer approaching the innermost cave. Rather, the protagonist is now fully in the belly of the beast, and what a beast it is! The ordeal is usually not the climax of the story, but this is the moment where the protagonist truly transforms from an ordinary character into a true hero. It may involve their greatest fear or a physically or mentally demanding task.
• The reward : If your protagonist, now hero, succeeds in their greatest challenge, then they will be given a reward that makes the journey worth so much time, effort, and challenge. If they can succeed, then there is hope for them, that bright light that shines through the top of a dark cave and promises fulfillment and a future. This is what the hero has been fighting for this whole time. As for the reward itself, you should make sure it makes sense in the context of your story. It can be an object, a piece of knowledge, or even something entirely different, so long as its value matches the degree of the journey.

Stage 3: the return

Wahoo, your hero has endured so much and has finally gotten their reward! It's over, right? They can return to their ordinary life and reap the benefits of all their hard work? Wrong! Things are never as easy as they seem, especially in a hero's journey, so why would the road back to the ordinary world be any different for your hero?

• On the road again : This is the turning point, literally. The hero turns back around, hoping to return to their normal life after receiving their reward. But thing's are never that simple, so be sure to make sure that road is blocked. Traffic cones, stoplights, maybe a supernatural villain or catastrophic natural disaster! That should do the trick. If the road back home was easy, we'd be bored, so maintain the stakes with challenges for the hero to face as they make their way back home.
• The resurrection : Congratulations, you've finally reached the climax of your story. Remember how we said the ordeal was the moment where your protagonist transformed from an ordinary character into an actual hero, this is the moment where they can prove to us that they deserve the hero title, after all. The stakes become extremely high, as the hero does not want to fail after having endured so much already. This is the final test for the hero and the final opportunity for the villain or opposing forces to defeat the hero. If the hero comes out on top, then they will finally be able to reach that light at the end of the tunnel.
• Return with the elixir : The hero has finally completed all their challenges and is able to return home with their reward. Their transformation is complete, and they've most likely become a better person because of the journey. Or, if you want to add a twist to this step, you can always have the hero fail to return without they set out to receive, but you better be prepared to write a sequel and a whole other journey!

Following the template

Since we mentioned The Hunger Games at the very beginning, let's use Katniss Everdeen and her hero's journey as a model for this template.

• The ordinary world : Katniss Everdeen is introduced as a citizen on District 12, a poor mining district. She spends her days hunting in the woods to provide food for her family.
• The call to action : Every year, a reaping takes place where a male and female tribute from each district is randomly chosen to take place in the Hunger Games, a fight to the death. During the reaping, Katniss' sister Primrose is selected, so Katniss volunteers to take her place as the female tribute from District 12.
• Refusal of the call : As we mentioned, you may not include all 12 steps of the hero's journey in your own story. Katniss does not actually refuse the call, as she volunteered herself to save her sister. A refusal of the call is slightly seen in Peeta, Katniss' fellow tribute, as he is visibly nervous and shaken up. The nature of this story makes it so that a refusal is impossible.
• Meeting the mentor : Katniss meets Haymitch Abernathy, a previous Hunger Games victor from her District. He is her literal mentor and is meant to teach her how to make allies, get sponsors, and survive in the arena. She also finds a mentor in Cinna, the person in charge of her appearance for promotions.
• Crossing the threshold : Katniss is whisked out of District 12 and on the train to the gaudy, wealthy Capitol.
• Introduction to tests, friends, and foe : Katniss must attempt to learn who to trust while also earning sponsors and impressing the Game Makers. Katniss makes a reluctant alliance with Peeta and admires Rue from District 11. During training, it is evident that the Careers (tributes from the wealthier districts) are enemies.
• Approaching the innermost cave : Katniss enters the physical arena.
• The ordeal : The arena is full of challenges: tracker jackers, mutant wolves, poisonous berries, and other tributes trying to survive. The games themselves are the whole ordeal.
• The reward : Katniss and Peeta are the last tributes standing.
• On the road again : Although Katniss and Peeta have survived, there can only be one winner, and the Capitol wants to force them to select who lives and who dies.
• The resurrection : Katniss' bold attempt at a mutual suicide leads to both of them being allowed to live as victors, lest they become martyrs in front of the whole country.
• Return with the elixir : Katniss and Peeta return to District 12 as victors, allowing them to live lives of wealth and luxury. If you've read the books, you'll know this is nowhere near the end of Katniss' journey.

Reaping the rewards

If you've managed to check off all 12 steps on our hero's journey checklist, then you've got yourself an awesome hero's journey. If you're just starting out on your own journey of writing for a hero, then be sure to follow this template for maximum results. Be the hero in your own journey and remember to never give up as you face those roadblocks and challenges while buckling down and writing a story of your own!

Header photo by Zoltan Tasi .

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The Hero’s Journey: Literature & Composition, 2nd Edition

The books in the Hero’s Journey: Literature & Composition, Second Edition, feature ordinary people who find themselves in circumstances that require extraordinary acts, and how these acts relate to the archetypal hero’s journey. Lessons provide historical background on the setting and author, and discussion points for exploring literary themes and issues with family and peers. Students develop a wide range of composition skills throughout the course, using techniques and formats such as comparative essays, first-person writing, figurative language, summarizing, poetry, persuasive writing, inferential reading and contextual clues, and observational writing.

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Explore 20 Best The Hero’S Journey Books with Our 2024 Update

Are you ready to embark on an epic literary adventure? The hero’s journey is a timeless and captivating narrative structure that has inspired countless stories throughout history. If you’re looking to delve into the realm of heroic tales, look no further than these 20 best books about the hero’s journey. From classic myths to modern novels, these books offer captivating insights into the hero’s journey, making them essential reads for any book enthusiast. Let’s dive into the world of the hero’s journey books and discover the timeless allure of the heroic quest.

• 1 20 Best Books About The Hero’S Journey
• 2 The Alchemist
• 3 The Hero with a Thousand Faces
• 4 The Hobbit
• 5 The Odyssey
• 6 The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
• 7 The Lord of the Rings
• 8 The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew
• 9 The Hunger Games
• 10 Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
• 12 The Princess Bride
• 13 The Wizard of Oz
• 14 The Giver
• 16 The Lightning Thief
• 17 The Golden Compass
• 18 The Maze Runner
• 19 The Name of the Wind
• 20 American Gods
• 21 The Power of Myth
• 22 Conclusion

20 Best Books About The Hero’S Journey

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The Alchemist

By paulo coelho.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a captivating book on the hero’s journey, following the story of Santiago, a young shepherd who embarks on a quest to find a treasure hidden near the Egyptian pyramids. Along the way, he encounters various obstacles, meets a colorful cast of characters, and learns valuable life lessons. The novel is a timeless tale of self-discovery, personal legend, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Through Santiago’s journey, readers are inspired to reflect on their own paths and the importance of listening to their hearts. Coelho’s writing is both philosophical and enchanting, making The Alchemist a must-read for anyone seeking adventure, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of the hero’s journey.

The Hero with a Thousand Faces

By joseph campbell.

The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell is a seminal book about the hero’s journey. Campbell explores the common themes and patterns found in myths and stories from various cultures, and identifies the ‘monomyth’ or the ‘hero’s journey’ as a universal and timeless narrative structure. He examines the stages of the hero’s journey, from the call to adventure and the crossing of the threshold to the ultimate boon and return. Campbell’s insightful analysis and engaging writing style make this book on the hero’s journey a must-read for anyone interested in storytelling, mythology, or the human experience. Whether you’re a writer, artist, or simply a lover of epic tales, The Hero with a Thousand Faces offers a rich and enlightening exploration of the hero’s journey.

by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Hobbit is a classic fantasy novel by J.R.R. Tolkien that takes readers on an unforgettable adventure. The story revolves around Bilbo Baggins, a reluctant hobbit who is swept away from his comfortable life by the wizard Gandalf and a group of dwarves. Together, they embark on a perilous quest to reclaim the dwarves’ stolen treasure from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo encounters trolls, goblins, and elves, and ultimately discovers his courage and resourcefulness. This timeless tale is a quintessential ‘book about the hero’s journey’, as Bilbo undergoes a transformative experience, facing his fears and finding his inner strength. With its rich world-building and compelling characters, The Hobbit is a must-read for anyone seeking an epic adventure that embodies the hero’s journey.

The Odyssey

The Odyssey by Homer is a classic book about the hero’s journey that follows the adventures of the Greek hero Odysseus as he attempts to return home after the Trojan War. Faced with numerous obstacles and challenges, Odysseus must overcome temptations, outsmart monsters, and navigate the wrath of the gods in order to reunite with his beloved wife and son. This epic tale is filled with thrilling battles, captivating mythological creatures, and poignant moments of human struggle and triumph. As one of the foundational texts of Western literature, The Odyssey continues to captivate readers with its timeless themes of perseverance, courage, and the enduring power of the human spirit. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in books on the hero’s journey and the timeless quest for self-discovery and homecoming.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

By c.s. lewis.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis is a classic fantasy novel that takes readers on a magical journey through the land of Narnia. Four siblings, Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy, stumble upon the enchanted world of Narnia through a wardrobe, where they discover an epic battle between good and evil. As they embark on a perilous adventure, they encounter talking animals, mythical creatures, and the powerful lion, Aslan. This timeless tale is a quintessential book about the hero’s journey, as the siblings undergo personal growth, face challenges, and ultimately fulfill their destinies as the chosen rulers of Narnia. With its rich symbolism and captivating storytelling, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe continues to enthrall readers of all ages, making it a must-read book on the hero’s journey.

The Lord of the Rings

The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien is a classic fantasy novel that follows the epic quest of a young hobbit named Frodo Baggins as he embarks on a perilous journey to destroy a powerful ring. This beloved tale is a quintessential example of the hero’s journey, as Frodo faces countless challenges, battles evil forces, and ultimately discovers his own courage and inner strength. The book is filled with rich world-building, memorable characters, and timeless themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the struggle between good and evil. Readers are transported to the enchanting and dangerous land of Middle-earth, where they join Frodo and his companions on a breathtaking adventure that has captured the hearts of generations. The Lord of the Rings is a must-read for anyone who loves a captivating story about the hero’s journey.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew

The Magician’s Nephew, by C.S. Lewis, is a captivating fantasy novel that takes readers on an enchanting journey through the magical land of Narnia. This book, about the hero’s journey, follows the adventures of two children, Digory and Polly, as they are transported to different worlds by the cunning magician, Uncle Andrew. As they explore the mysterious Wood Between the Worlds, they discover the origin of Narnia and witness the creation of this wondrous realm by the powerful lion, Aslan. Throughout their quest, they encounter mythical creatures, confront evil forces, and ultimately learn valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and the consequences of their actions. The Magician’s Nephew is a spellbinding tale that will captivate readers of all ages with its rich storytelling and timeless themes of the hero’s journey.

The Hunger Games

By suzanne collins.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a thrilling dystopian novel that follows the story of Katniss Everdeen as she navigates the dangerous world of Panem. Set in a future world where the government controls its citizens through a brutal annual event known as the Hunger Games, the book follows Katniss as she volunteers to take her sister’s place in the deadly competition. As she fights for survival, Katniss becomes a symbol of hope and resistance for the oppressed people of Panem. This gripping tale of courage, sacrifice, and resilience is a prime example of a ‘book on the hero’s journey’. With its themes of struggle, growth, and self-discovery, The Hunger Games is a captivating read for anyone interested in the hero’s journey or dystopian fiction.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

By j.k. rowling.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, written by J.K. Rowling, is a captivating book about the hero’s journey. It follows the story of a young boy, Harry, who discovers that he is a wizard and is invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Throughout the book, Harry learns about his magical abilities, makes lifelong friends, and faces numerous challenges, including the quest to find the Philosopher’s Stone. This book on the hero’s journey takes readers on an enchanting adventure filled with magic, friendship, and the battle between good and evil. With its relatable characters and imaginative world-building, this the hero’s journey book has captured the hearts of readers of all ages and has become a beloved classic in the world of literature.

by Frank Herbert

Dune by Frank Herbert is a classic science fiction novel that takes readers on an epic adventure through a desert world where political intrigue, mystical powers, and ecological concerns collide. The story follows young Paul Atreides as he navigates the treacherous landscape of Arrakis, a planet known for its valuable spice and dangerous sandworms. As Paul learns to harness his latent abilities and embrace his destiny, he becomes embroiled in a complex web of power struggles and ancient prophecies. This book on the hero’s journey delves into themes of leadership, sacrifice, and the transformative nature of adversity. With its rich world-building and engrossing plot, Dune has captivated readers for decades and continues to be a beloved classic in the realm of science fiction.

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The Princess Bride

By william goldman.

The Princess Bride by William Goldman is a captivating tale of true love, high adventure, and dastardly villains. This classic novel takes readers on a journey through the fantastical kingdom of Florin, where the beautiful Buttercup and her true love, Westley, must overcome incredible odds to be together. Filled with swashbuckling sword fights, cunning pirates, and a giant with a heart of gold, this book on the hero’s journey is a delightful mix of romance, comedy, and action. As the characters navigate through trials and tribulations, readers will be enthralled by the timeless themes of courage, loyalty, and the power of love. With its witty narration and unforgettable characters, The Princess Bride is a must-read for anyone seeking a thrilling adventure and a heartwarming tale of the hero’s journey.

The Wizard of Oz

By l. frank baum.

The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum is a timeless classic that takes readers on a captivating journey through the magical land of Oz. This beloved tale follows Dorothy, a young girl who finds herself swept away from her Kansas home by a tornado and transported to the wondrous world of Oz. On her quest to find her way back home, she encounters a cast of unforgettable characters, including the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion, each seeking something they believe the powerful Wizard can grant them. As they travel the yellow brick road, facing challenges and overcoming obstacles, they discover the true power lies within themselves. This enchanting story is a must-read for anyone seeking adventure, courage, and the triumph of the human spirit—a quintessential book about the hero’s journey.

by Lois Lowry

The Giver by Lois Lowry is a captivating novel that takes readers on a thought-provoking journey. Set in a seemingly perfect society, the book follows the story of Jonas, a young boy who is chosen to be the Receiver of Memories, a role that exposes him to the truth about his world. As Jonas uncovers the dark secrets hidden beneath the facade of his society, he embarks on a quest for truth and freedom, challenging the status quo and ultimately becoming the hero of his own story. This book about the hero’s journey explores themes of individuality, the pursuit of knowledge, and the sacrifices required to create a better world. With its powerful narrative and evocative storytelling, The Giver is a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and impactful literary experience.

by Christopher Paolini

Eragon by Christopher Paolini is an epic fantasy novel that follows the classic structure of a book on the hero’s journey. The story revolves around a young farm boy, Eragon, who discovers a mysterious blue stone that turns out to be a dragon egg. As the dragon hatches, Eragon becomes embroiled in a dangerous adventure that leads him to uncover his destiny as a Dragon Rider. As he learns to harness his newfound powers and navigate the world of Alagaësia, Eragon encounters allies and adversaries, propelling him along a path of growth, courage, and self-discovery. Paolini’s rich world-building and vivid characters make this book about the hero’s journey a captivating and immersive read for fantasy enthusiasts of all ages.

The Lightning Thief

By rick riordan.

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan is a captivating book on the hero’s journey, following the adventures of Percy Jackson, a twelve-year-old boy who discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon. As Percy navigates the challenges of being a half-blood at Camp Half-Blood, he embarks on a quest to prevent a war among the gods. Along the way, he encounters mythical creatures, battles with gods, and learns about his own strength and destiny. The book is filled with action, humor, and relatable characters, making it a thrilling read for both young adult and adult readers. Riordan’s modern twist on ancient mythology and the classic hero’s journey makes The Lightning Thief a must-read for anyone who enjoys a book about the hero’s journey.

The Golden Compass

By philip pullman.

The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman is a captivating fantasy novel that follows the adventurous journey of a young girl named Lyra Belacqua. Set in a parallel universe, the story revolves around Lyra’s quest to rescue her kidnapped friend and discover the truth about a mysterious particle known as Dust. As she travels through strange and dangerous lands, Lyra encounters magical creatures, deceitful adults, and uncovers shocking secrets about her own identity. This captivating tale is not just a fantasy adventure, but also a thought-provoking book about the hero’s journey, as Lyra’s quest forces her to confront her fears, develop her strengths, and ultimately grow into a courageous and resilient young woman. The Golden Compass is a must-read for fans of epic quests and compelling coming-of-age stories.

The Maze Runner

By james dashner.

The Maze Runner by James Dashner is a thrilling dystopian novel that follows the journey of a group of young boys who are trapped in a mysterious maze. The protagonist, Thomas, finds himself in the Glade with no memory of his past, and soon realizes that the only way to escape is by solving the deadly maze. As the boys band together to navigate the treacherous labyrinth, they encounter terrifying creatures and uncover dark secrets about their predicament. The novel is a gripping story about the hero’s journey, as Thomas and his friends must overcome numerous challenges, confront their fears, and ultimately fight for their survival. With its fast-paced plot, intense action, and unexpected twists, The Maze Runner is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and books about the hero’s journey.

The Name of the Wind

By patrick rothfuss.

The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss is a captivating fantasy novel that follows the classic structure of the hero’s journey. The story revolves around Kvothe, a gifted young man with a thirst for knowledge and a mysterious past. Through his trials and tribulations, Kvothe embarks on a journey of self-discovery, facing formidable foes and uncovering his latent powers along the way. The novel is a spellbinding tale of adventure, magic, and destiny, as Kvothe navigates the challenges of his world while unraveling the enigma of his own existence. With its richly detailed world-building and compelling characters, The Name of the Wind is a must-read for fans of the hero’s journey, offering a fresh and enthralling take on the timeless theme of personal growth and transformation.

American Gods

By neil gaiman.

American Gods by Neil Gaiman is a captivating novel that delves into the world of mythology and modern-day America. The story follows ex-convict Shadow Moon as he navigates a world where ancient gods and mythological beings exist alongside modern technology. As Shadow embarks on a cross-country journey, he becomes entangled in a conflict between the old gods, brought to America by immigrants, and the new gods of media, technology, and celebrity.

This book on the hero’s journey takes readers on a mesmerizing adventure filled with mystery, magic, and larger-than-life characters. Gaiman seamlessly weaves together elements of fantasy, folklore, and Americana to create a thought-provoking narrative that explores the nature of belief, identity, and the power of storytelling. American Gods is a must-read for fans of mythology, urban fantasy, and anyone seeking a fresh take on the classic ‘hero’s journey’.

The Power of Myth

By joseph campbell and bill moyers.

The Power of Myth is a captivating exploration of the universal theme of the hero’s journey, as discussed by renowned mythologist Joseph Campbell and journalist Bill Moyers. This thought-provoking book delves into the rich tapestry of myths and legends from various cultures, revealing the underlying similarities and timeless wisdom they impart. Campbell’s profound insights into the hero’s journey, or the monomyth, shed light on the human experience and our quest for meaning and fulfillment. Through engaging conversations with Moyers, Campbell’s teachings come to life, offering readers a deeper understanding of the hero’s journey and its relevance to our lives. The Power of Myth is a must-read for anyone seeking to unravel the mysteries of human existence and discover the profound truths embedded in ancient stories.

Exploring The Hero’S Journey through literature is an enriching and captivating experience. The 20 best books about the hero’s journey provide insightful narratives that delve into the depths of the human spirit and the transformative power of facing adversity. Whether you’re a fan of fantasy, mythology, or modern fiction, these books offer a diverse range of perspectives on the hero’s journey that will leave you feeling inspired and enlightened.

Which The Hero'S Journey book is best?

The best book on The Hero’S Journey can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho ,
• The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell ,
• The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien .

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about The Hero'S Journey?

For those looking to learn about The Hero’S Journey, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

• The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien ,
• The Odyssey by Homer ,
• The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis ,
• The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien ,
• The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis ,
• The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins ,
• Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling ,
• Dune by Frank Herbert

These books offer a range of perspectives on The Hero’S Journey, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books on The Hero'S Journey?

The best books on The Hero’S Journey include:

• The Princess Bride by William Goldman ,
• The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum ,
• The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien .

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of The Hero’S Journey are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best The Hero'S Journey books of all time?

Choosing the best The Hero’S Journey books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include

• Dune by Frank Herbert ,
• and The Princess Bride by William Goldman .

Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of The Hero’S Journey and continues to be influential today.

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Paul Finch Unofficial Author Website

20 best books on the hero’s journey – 2023 reading list & recommendations

If you’re a fan of adventure, self-discovery, and epic tales, then you’re in for a treat. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about the hero’s journey that are sure to captivate and inspire you. From ancient myths to modern classics, these books delve into the timeless theme of the hero’s journey, taking readers on a transformative quest filled with trials, triumphs, and profound insights. So, whether you’re an aspiring writer or simply a lover of great storytelling, dive into these remarkable books on the hero’s journey and prepare to embark on a thrilling adventure.

• 1 The Alchemist
• 2 The Hero with a Thousand Faces
• 3 The Power of Myth
• 4 The Hobbit
• 5 The Odyssey
• 6 The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
• 7 The Lord of the Rings
• 8 The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew
• 9 The Hunger Games
• 10 Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
• 12 The Princess Bride
• 13 The Wizard of Oz
• 14 The Giver
• 16 The Lightning Thief
• 17 The Golden Compass
• 18 The Maze Runner
• 19 The Name of the Wind
• 20 American Gods
• 21 Conclusion

Buy the book

The Alchemist

By paulo coelho.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a mesmerizing book that takes you on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and personal transformation. This enchanting tale is a modern-day fable, a book about the hero’s odyssey, and a captivating exploration of the human spirit.

The Hero with a Thousand Faces

By joseph campbell.

The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell is an extraordinary book on the hero’s journey that takes readers on a profound exploration of myths and the universal pattern that lies beneath them. Campbell’s work delves into the human experience, uncovering the hidden threads that connect cultures and civilizations throughout history.

In this book about the hero’s journey, Campbell introduces the concept of the Monomyth, which refers to the fundamental structure found in countless myths and legends from around the world. He argues that all hero stories follow a similar pattern, regardless of their cultural origins.

Campbell’s captivating writing style draws readers into a world of adventure and self-discovery. He analyzes various mythical tales, from ancient Greek mythology to Native American folklore, and reveals how they all share common themes and stages of the hero’s journey.

The author’s extensive knowledge of comparative mythology and religion allows him to present a comprehensive analysis of the hero’s journey, exploring its psychological, spiritual, and philosophical implications. Through his insightful interpretations, Campbell shows how the hero’s journey serves as a mirror for our own lives, guiding us through the challenges and transformations that we encounter on our personal quests.

Whether you are a fan of mythology, a writer seeking inspiration, or simply someone interested in understanding the human experience, The Hero with a Thousand Faces is a must-read. Campbell’s masterpiece will forever change the way you view stories and the profound impact they have on our lives.

The Power of Myth

By joseph campbell and bill moyers.

The Power of Myth is an extraordinary book on the hero’s journey, written by the renowned mythologist Joseph Campbell and journalist Bill Moyers. This captivating work delves into the depths of human existence, exploring the universal themes and archetypes that have shaped our stories and cultures throughout history.

by J.R.R. Tolkien

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through the pages of J.R.R. Tolkien’s timeless masterpiece, The Hobbit. This captivating tale follows the journey of Bilbo Baggins, a reluctant and unassuming hobbit, as he sets out on a perilous quest that will test his courage, resilience, and ultimately, his destiny.

In this mesmerizing book about the hero’s journey, Bilbo finds himself swept away from his comfortable life in the Shire, joining a group of dwarves led by the legendary Thorin Oakenshield. Together, they venture into the treacherous lands of Middle-earth, braving menacing creatures, dark forests, and the powerful dragon Smaug.

As Bilbo encounters challenges and unforeseen dangers, he undergoes a transformative journey of self-discovery. With each step, he unravels the depths of his own courage and resourcefulness, proving that even the most unlikely of heroes can rise to the occasion.

Throughout the hero’s journey book, Bilbo encounters a cast of unforgettable characters, including the enigmatic wizard Gandalf, the cunning Gollum, and the majestic elves of Rivendell. Alongside these allies, he learns the true meaning of loyalty, friendship, and sacrifice.

Tolkien’s rich and vivid storytelling transports readers into a world brimming with magic, wonder, and mythical creatures. From the lush landscapes of the Shire to the treacherous Misty Mountains, every step of Bilbo’s adventure is brought to life with breathtaking detail, immersing you in a fantastical realm like no other.

So, if you are ready to embark on a thrilling and enchanting journey, join Bilbo Baggins on his quest in The Hobbit. Discover the power of the hero’s journey as you witness a seemingly ordinary hobbit transform into a legend and find his place in the epic history of Middle-earth.

The Odyssey

The Odyssey: A Book on the Hero’s Journey

Embark on an epic adventure with Homer’s timeless masterpiece, The Odyssey. This legendary tale, often hailed as the ultimate book about the hero’s journey, takes readers on a thrilling odyssey through the vast seas of ancient Greece.

Follow the courageous and cunning hero, Odysseus, as he battles mythical creatures, encounters gods and goddesses, and faces countless obstacles in his quest to return home after the Trojan War. With his loyal crew by his side, Odysseus must navigate treacherous waters, navigate his own flaws, and overcome the temptations that threaten to derail his mission.

Through vivid imagery and poetic storytelling, Homer weaves a captivating narrative that explores the depths of human resilience, the power of determination, and the triumph of the human spirit. As readers delve into this epic poem, they will witness Odysseus’ transformation from a mere mortal into a legendary hero, as he learns valuable lessons about humility, perseverance, and the consequences of hubris.

With its timeless themes and universal appeal, The Odyssey continues to captivate readers of all ages. So dive into this mesmerizing tale that defines the hero’s journey and discover why this epic has stood the test of time. Prepare to be enthralled, inspired, and forever changed by the extraordinary adventures that await you in The Odyssey.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

By c.s. lewis.

Discover a timeless tale of adventure and magic in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis. This enchanting book takes readers on a captivating journey, immersing them in a world filled with wonder and danger. Set in the mystical land of Narnia, this epic fantasy follows the Pevensie siblings – Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy – as they stumble upon a hidden wardrobe that serves as a portal to a parallel universe.

As they step through the wardrobe, the children find themselves in a land trapped in eternal winter by the wicked White Witch. With the help of the majestic lion, Aslan, they embark on a thrilling quest to defeat the Witch and restore peace to Narnia. Along the way, they encounter mythical creatures, face countless challenges, and learn valuable lessons about bravery, loyalty, and sacrifice.

This remarkable tale is not just a story of adventure, but also a profound exploration of the hero’s journey. Through their trials and triumphs, the Pevensie siblings undergo personal growth, discovering their inner strengths and overcoming their deepest fears. Their path mirrors the classic hero’s journey, as they leave their comfort zone, face formidable foes, and ultimately emerge as heroes.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers of all ages. With its richly imagined world, unforgettable characters, and compelling narrative, this book about the hero’s journey is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to step through the wardrobe.

The Lord of the Rings

The Lord of the Rings, written by J.R.R. Tolkien, is an epic fantasy adventure that takes readers on a remarkable journey filled with peril, friendship, and the triumph of good over evil. This timeless tale is a book on the hero’s journey, as it follows a group of unlikely heroes who set out to destroy a powerful ring that could bring about the destruction of their world.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew is an enchanting book about the hero’s journey written by the brilliant C.S. Lewis. This mesmerizing tale takes readers on a fantastical adventure through time and space, weaving together elements of magic, bravery, and self-discovery.

The story follows two curious and courageous children, Digory and Polly, as they stumble upon a secret passage that leads them to other worlds. Guided by the wise and enigmatic magician, Uncle Andrew, they find themselves transported to the magical land of Narnia, a realm filled with talking animals, mythical creatures, and extraordinary wonders.

As Digory and Polly navigate the mysterious realm of Narnia, they encounter the powerful lion Aslan, who sets them on a mission to retrieve a magical apple from a forbidden garden. This perilous quest not only tests their physical and mental abilities but also challenges their moral compass and inner strength.

Throughout their journey, Digory and Polly face numerous obstacles and temptations, forcing them to confront their deepest fears and make difficult choices. As they navigate treacherous landscapes and encounter fascinating characters, they learn valuable lessons about friendship, courage, and the importance of standing up for what is right.

The Magician’s Nephew is a captivating and thought-provoking story that delves into themes of creation, temptation, and the duality of human nature. With its rich world-building and intricate plot, this book on the hero’s journey invites readers of all ages to embark on a thrilling and transformative adventure.

The Hunger Games

By suzanne collins.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a thrilling book about the hero’s journey. Set in a dystopian future, it follows the courageous protagonist, Katniss Everdeen, as she embarks on a perilous adventure that will test her strength, resilience, and determination. In this epic tale of self-discovery and survival, Katniss is forced to participate in a deadly televised event called the Hunger Games, where she must fight for her life against other young tributes from the twelve districts of Panem. With themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the pursuit of justice, The Hunger Games takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster, leaving them captivated and eager to join Katniss on her journey of heroism.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

By j.k. rowling.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone: A Magical Tale of the Hero’s Journey

Welcome to the enchanting world of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone! This spellbinding novel by J.K. Rowling takes readers on an extraordinary adventure, immersing them in a world of magic, mystery, and the hero’s journey.

From the very first page, we are introduced to Harry Potter, a young boy who discovers that he is no ordinary child. As he embarks on his journey, Harry leaves behind his mundane life and enters the fantastical realm of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Guided by his wise mentor, Professor Dumbledore, Harry discovers that he is destined for greatness and must confront the forces of darkness that threaten the wizarding world. With his loyal friends by his side, including the resourceful Hermione Granger and the fiercely loyal Ron Weasley, Harry faces countless challenges, tests, and even encounters a three-headed dog!

This captivating story not only explores the magical world of witches and wizards, but also delves deep into the hero’s journey. Through Harry’s experiences, we witness his growth, courage, and resilience as he battles evil and discovers his true identity.

With its richly developed characters, engaging plot twists, and a touch of humor, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone captivates readers of all ages. It is a book about the hero’s journey that will leave you spellbound and yearning for more.

So grab your wand, put on your invisibility cloak, and join Harry Potter as he embarks on a truly magical adventure. The hero’s journey awaits!

by Frank Herbert

Dune is an epic saga that takes readers on a mind-bending journey through a spice-infused universe. A sprawling masterpiece by Frank Herbert, this book on the hero’s odyssey transports you to the fascinating world of Arrakis, a desert planet brimming with political intrigue, mystical powers, and perilous adventures.

The Princess Bride

By william goldman.

The Princess Bride by William Goldman is a legendary tale, a captivating book on the hero’s journey that takes readers on a thrilling adventure through the realms of love, bravery, and wit.

The Wizard of Oz

By l. frank baum.

The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum is a captivating book on the hero’s journey that takes readers on a magical adventure. This timeless classic follows the story of Dorothy, a young girl who finds herself in a fantastical land after a tornado sweeps her away from her dull, grayscale Kansas farm.

As Dorothy embarks on her journey through the enchanting Land of Oz, she encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own desires and fears. Alongside her newfound companions—the brainless Scarecrow, the heartless Tin Woodman, and the cowardly Lion—Dorothy seeks the help of the all-powerful Wizard of Oz to find her way back home.

Throughout their quest, Dorothy and her friends face numerous challenges and obstacles, each one testing their courage, intelligence, and compassion. As they overcome these trials, they learn valuable lessons about themselves and the power they possess within.

The Wizard of Oz is not just a book about the hero’s journey; it is a tale that resonates with readers of all ages. It explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the importance of believing in oneself. Baum’s vivid storytelling and imaginative world-building create a mesmerizing narrative that continues to captivate and inspire readers, more than a century after its initial publication.

So, whether you’re seeking an adventure-filled fantasy, a heartwarming tale of friendship, or simply a journey of self-discovery, The Wizard of Oz is the hero’s journey book that will transport you to a world of magic, wonder, and endless possibilities.

by Lois Lowry

The Giver, written by Lois Lowry, is an extraordinary tale that takes readers on a captivating journey into a dystopian society. This mesmerizing novel follows the story of Jonas, a young boy who lives in a seemingly perfect community. However, as Jonas embarks on his remarkable adventure, he discovers that this world is far from ideal, and he must confront unimaginable truths.

by Christopher Paolini

Eragon is an epic fantasy novel that embarks on a thrilling adventure, taking readers on a fantastical journey through a world of magic, dragons, and destiny. This mesmerizing tale, penned by Christopher Paolini, unfolds as a remarkable ‘book on the hero’s journey,’ tracing the footsteps of a young farm boy named Eragon.

The Lightning Thief

By rick riordan.

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan is a thrilling adventure that takes readers on an epic quest, following the classic pattern of the hero’s journey. This book delves into the incredible world of Greek mythology, where gods and monsters roam, and a young demigod named Percy Jackson discovers his true identity.

The Golden Compass

By philip pullman.

The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman is an enchanting tale that takes readers on an extraordinary adventure, a captivating journey that explores the concept of destiny, courage, and self-discovery. This mesmerizing novel follows the young and spirited protagonist, Lyra Belacqua, as she embarks on an epic quest, a profound odyssey that mirrors the concept of the hero’s journey.

The Maze Runner

By james dashner.

The Maze Runner by James Dashner is an exhilarating adventure that takes readers on a thrilling quest through a treacherous labyrinth. This captivating novel follows a group of young heroes as they navigate through a mysterious maze, facing danger, betrayal, and unexpected alliances along the way. Dashner’s masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions immerse readers in a world of suspense and intrigue, making The Maze Runner a must-read for anyone seeking an epic tale of courage, resilience, and the journey of the hero.

The Name of the Wind

By patrick rothfuss.

The Name of the Wind is an enthralling tale that takes readers on a captivating journey following the footsteps of a young protagonist named Kvothe. This epic fantasy novel, often hailed as a “book on the hero’s journey,” unravels the extraordinary life of Kvothe, a talented musician, brilliant student, and a notorious magician.

American Gods

By neil gaiman.

American Gods by Neil Gaiman is an extraordinary novel that takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through a world where ancient gods clash with modern deities. This captivating book delves deep into the realm of the hero’s odyssey, following the protagonist, Shadow Moon, as he embarks on a life-altering adventure. Gaiman’s masterful storytelling weaves together mythology, fantasy, and a touch of Americana, creating a unique and thought-provoking narrative. As Shadow discovers the truth about the gods that walk among us, readers are taken on a profound exploration of belief, identity, and the power of myth in our lives. American Gods is a spellbinding tale that will leave you questioning the nature of reality and the role that heroes play in our ever-changing world.

In conclusion, these 20 best books about the hero’s journey offer a captivating exploration into the timeless theme of personal transformation and triumph. From epic tales of mythical heroes to modern-day accounts of ordinary individuals overcoming extraordinary odds, these books inspire and empower readers to embark on their own heroic quests. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, guidance, or simply a thrilling adventure, these books will transport you into the heart of the hero’s journey, reminding you that within every one of us lies the potential for greatness.

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The Hero’s Journey: 12 Steps That Make Up the Universal Structure of Great Stories

by David Safford | 0 comments

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At some in your writer's life, you've probably come across the term Hero's Journey. Maybe you've even studied this guide for storytelling and applied it to your own books—and yet, something about your own application felt off. You wanted to learn more, but didn't know where to start.

Maybe you needed a resource that would simplify the hero's journey steps and all the other major details instead of complicate them.

The Hero's Journey is as old as humanity itself. And through history, this single story form has emerged over and over again. People from all cultures have seemed to favor its structure, and its familiar types of characters (archetypal hero, anyone?), symbols, relationships, and steps.

If you want to build or strengthen your writing career and win a following of many happy readers, you want this particular tool in your writer's toolbox.

Let's dive in.

Need help applying The Hero's Journey to your story outline and manuscript? Download this free Hero's Journey worksheet now!

Why I Love the Hero's Journey (And You Will, Too)

Like many, I grew up loving Star Wars. I especially loved the music and bought the soundtracks at some point in middle school. When my parents weren't home and I had the house all to myself, I'd slip one of the CDs into my stereo, crank the volume up, and blast the London Symphony Orchestra. I even pretended I was conducting the violins and timpani myself.

I know it's nerdy to admit. But we love what we love, and I love the music of great movies.

In a way, the Hero's Journey is like a soundtrack. It follows familiar beats and obeys age-old principles of human emotion. We can't necessarily explain why a piece of music is so beautiful, but we can explain what it does and simply acknowledge that most people like it.

As I've come to understand Joseph Campbell's groundbreaking monomyth theory, commonly known as the Hero's Journey, I've fallen deeper and deeper in love with it.

But it's important to make sure you know what it is, and what it isn't.

The Hero's Journey isn't a formula to simply follow, plugging in hackneyed characters into cliched situations.

It's not “selling out” and giving up your artistic integrity

The Hero's Journey is a set of steps, scenes, character types, symbols, and themes that tend to recur in stories regardless of culture or time period. Within these archetypes are nearly infinite variations and unique perspectives that are impacted by culture and period, reflecting wonderful traits of the authors and audiences.

Also, the Hero's Journey is a process that your reader expects your story to follow, whether they know it or not. This archetype is hard-wired into our D.N.A. Let's look at how to use it to make your own stories stronger.

How to Use This Hero's Journey Post

In the beginning, there were stories. These stories were told by mothers, soldiers, and performers. They were inscribed on the walls of caves, into tablets of stone, and on the first sheets of papyrus.

This is how the Hero's Journey was born.

In this post, I'll walk you through the Hero's Journey twelve steps, and teach you how to apply them into your story. I'll also share additional resources to teach you some other Hero's Journey essentials, like character archetypes, symbols, and themes. By the end of this post, you'll be able to easily apply the Hero's Journey to your story with confidence.

And don't skip out on the practice exercise at the end of the post! This will help you start to carve out the Hero's Journey for your story with a practical fifteen minute exercise—the best way to really retain how the Hero's Journey works is to apply it.

Table of Contents: The Hero's Journey Guide

What is the Hero's Journey?

Why the Hero's Journey will make you a better writer

The Twelve-Step Hero's Journey Structure

• The Ordinary World
• The Call to Adventure
• The Refusal of the Call
• Meeting the Mentor
• Crossing the Threshold
• Trials, Allies, and Enemies
• The Approach
• The Road Back
• The Resurrection
• Return With the Elixir

5 Essential Hero's Journey Scenes

A Guide to Structuring Your Hero's Journey

Bonus! Additional Hero's Journey Resources

• 5 Character Archetypes
• 5 Hero's Journey Symbols
• 5 Hero's Journey Themes

What Is the Hero's Journey?

The Hero's Journey is the timeless combination of characters, events, symbols, and relationships frequently structured as a sequence of twelve steps. It is a storytelling structure that anyone can study and utilize to tell a story that readers will love.

First identified and defined by Joseph Campbell, the Hero's Journey was theorizied in The Hero With a Thousand Faces . Today, it has been researched and taught by great minds, some including Carl Jung and Christopher Vogler (author of The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers ).

This research has given us lengthy and helpful lists of archetypes , or story elements that tend to recur in stories from any culture at any time.

And while some archetypes are unique to a genre, they are still consistent within those genres. For example, a horror story from Japan will still contain many of the same archetypes as a horror story from Ireland. There will certainly be notable differences in how these archetypes are depicted, but the tropes will still appear.

That's the power of the Hero's Journey. It is the skeleton key of storytelling that you can use to unlock the solution to almost any writing problem you are confronted with.

Why the Monomyth Will Make You a Better Writer

The Hero's Journey is the single most powerful tool at your disposal as a writer.

But it isn't a “rule,” so to speak. It's also not a to-do list.

If anything, the Hero's Journey is diagnostic, not prescriptive. In other words, it describes a story that works, but doesn't necessarily tell you what to do.

But the reason you should use the Hero's Journey isn't because it's a great trick or tool. You should use the Hero's Journey because it is based on thousands of years of human storytelling.

It provides a way to connect with readers from all different walks of life.

This is why stories about fantastical creatures from imaginary worlds can forge deep emotional connections with audiences. Hollywood knows this, and its best studios take advantage. As an example, The Lord of the Rings, by J. R. R. Tolkien, contains mythical creatures like elves and hobbits. Yet it is Frodo's heroic journey of sacrifice and courage that draws us to him like a magnet.

Learn how to easily apply the Hero's Journey 12 Steps to your books in this post. Tweet this

David Safford

You deserve a great book. That's why David Safford writes adventure stories that you won't be able to put down. Read his latest story at his website. David is a Language Arts teacher, novelist, blogger, hiker, Legend of Zelda fanatic, puzzle-doer, husband, and father of two awesome children.

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