The Trouble With Heroes by Kate Messner

What if a hike became a healing journey?

This story opens with a moment of defiance — a boy named Finn kicks over a headstone. It’s raw. Sharp. A little shocking. But instead of punishment, he’s given an unexpected path: climb all 46 Adirondack High Peaks.

What starts as a consequence slowly unfolds into something much deeper.

As Finn takes on the challenge, it becomes clear he’s not just climbing mountains — he’s facing the heavy, unspoken grief he’s been carrying. Grief he hasn’t fully acknowledged, let alone processed.

Kate Messner beautifully weaves a story about loss, responsibility, and the quiet courage it takes to face what hurts. Finn’s journey is emotional, subtle, and incredibly human. With each hike, we see him begin to unravel — and then rebuild — with more honesty, empathy, and perspective than he had before.

My Takeaway:

This book reminded me of something I keep needing to learn: grief doesn’t go away by ignoring it — and healing doesn’t have to be loud to be real.

It also left me with this: We are alive. Right now. And that alone is a gift worth honoring.
The Trouble With Heroes nudges us to feel the weight of that truth — and then do something meaningful with it.

If you’re looking for a middle grade novel that holds depth, heart, and quiet strength, this one’s for you.

Head out to your local bookstore and grab a copy.