In this prequel to The Blue Sword, Aerin, the daughter of the King of Damar and a witchwoman, has never felt as if she belonged. With all the rumors about her mother enspelling the King to marry her, she was suspected by an entire kingdom. Never a graceful, beautiful princess, this clumsy, boyish, flame-haired girl is far more apt at swordplay and horsemanship than embroidery or any of the dainty arts. But when Aerin is recovering from a serious sickness she discovers something in the old library, something that sets her on the road to a great adventure. Join Aerin as she sets out on a journey that is greater than anything she could even imagine; and far more dangerous.

Reviewed by Tammy S., University City Regional

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Reader's comments about this book

This is a good book! It is really worth the read!
-Erin, Charlotte. NC

I loved this book. I think she ended up with the wrong guy in the end, but nevertheless, it was an awesome book.
-Debbie, Charlotte, North Carolina

This is a very absorbing book. McKinley's writing style and attention to detail pulls you into the world she creates to the point where it feels almost real. I liked "The Blue Sword" better and recommend reading that book first, but both are worthy of being reread time and time again.
-Elisa, Charlotte, NC

The Hero and the Crown is an outstanding book! Though it can be confusing to younger readers, if you can stick it through, it's absolutely worth reading! With a truly unique, new world for its setting, you'll come back to re-read about Aerin again and again!
-Morgan, Cornelius, NC

"The Hero and the Crown" is an awesome book about finding your place, even when you don't think you can. Aerin feels like she will never fit in because of her apparently magicless state and her wish to have adventures. I think this book shows how even when your a little bit different, you still have a place in the world.
-Elizabeth, Charlotte, N.C.

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