GROWING UP HERO James Bruneau 2008
DO YOU BELIEVE? If you ever imagined yourself a hero, king, or princess... a dancer, rock star, or president... a writer, doctor, or an artist... anyone special, successful or famous, then this book is for you. Whether or not you achieved your dream or are still working towards it, you need to believe in yourself. I believe in you. Do you? Dedicated to all who believe.
This is the story of 6 year-old James Bruneau, an imaginative and adorable little guy who wants to be a superhero. Sometimes he thinks he can’t. He thinks he’s not strong enough or smart enough or good enough. But he’s wrong. James can be what he wants to be, do what he wants to do and see what he wants to see, as long as he believes in himself. A superhero is not necessarily born, but made over time. With inspiration, guidance and encouragement from a strong network of friends, family, teachers and mentors who believe in him, James begins to find his way.
What is a superhero? A superhero, by definition, is a fictional character with incredible physical prowess dedicated to acts of derring do that are in the best interests of the public. At some point a superhero discovers something larger than himself, whether it's a sense of responsibility or a strong belief in justice and humanitarianism. And he acts on it. A superhero is also a state of mind. Above all else, a superhero must believe that he can save the day, the world or the moment. If he just believes.
THE BEGINNING The day James came into the world was cause for celebration‌ and grief. For the family’s beloved boxer Gunnar died hours before James was born.
However, the family believes that Gunnar watches over and protects James.
As a baby, James often took on dog-like characteristics.
As James grew, his love for animals did, too.
BENEVOLENT BENEFACTORS James was born to two seemingly unremarkable parents. Rob and Kris had no super human powers, just love, patience and understanding.
Rob and Kris continue to guide James on his path – sharing their knowledge, insight and experience in the belief that they will inspire and enrich James' life.
EXTRAORDINARY POWER While our hero, does not possess specific superhuman power, he's shown signs of mastering his imagination, creativity and curiosity.
These skills and abilities allow him to harness the power behind his favorite superhero.
STRONG MORAL CODE With great power comes great responsibility. Every superhero possesses a strong moral code with qualities that include goodness, honesty and politeness. These guide him in serving others without expectation of reward.
SECRET IDENTITY A secret identity protects our superhero’s friends and family from becoming targets of his enemies. For this reason, only his closest family and friends know his secret.
James can change into many superheroes: Spiderman (alter ego Peter Parker); Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle (alter ego Leonardo) and Ben 10 (alter ego Ben Tennyson).
SUPERHERO HQ Our superhero's base of operations is kept hidden from the general public. It is revealed only to the people he completely trusts.
SIDEKICK Where would our superhero be without his superhero support, a.k.a. sidekick – Ruby-the-boxer?
SUPERFRIENDS While many superheroes work independently, our superhero regularly teams up with friends to form “all-star� groups. Together they battle against anything that isn't fun.
SUPPORT CAST A superhero is nothing without the love and support of many. Family, friends and teachers all connect with and support James. While, some may not know his secret identity, they all help him to believe he can be who he wants to be.
“The Wall” "You knew so much about animals it amazed me... you were our class expert!"– Mrs. Turner, Kindergarten Teacher "When I grow up i want to be an animal doctor" – James "The thing I will remember most was your 'I think I can' attitude... you NEVER gave up! I know you will always be successful if you keep that positive attitude!" – Mrs. Turner "You are a superstar!" – Mom "Don’t worry ‘bout a thing… cause every little thing is gonna be alright." – Dad (with a little help from Bob Marley) "I don't have a tail. I’m a primate." – James “James is an absolute joy to teach.” – Mr. Oettinger, First Grade Teacher “It’s nonfiction to make you smart.” – James (about books)
THE END...
GROWING UP HERO I BELIEVE.