The Hero and the Crown by Robin McKinley is praised for its rich world-building, strong protagonist, and lyrical prose. Critics highlight the novel's detailed fantasy setting and Aerin's compelling character arc. Some readers, however, feel the pacing is slow in parts and the plot slightly predictable. Overall, it is celebrated as a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts.

A reader who would enjoy The Hero and the Crown by Robin McKinley is likely a fan of high fantasy with strong, nuanced female protagonists, similar to those found in Tamora Pierce’s Alanna: The First Adventure or Kristin Cashore’s Graceling. They appreciate richly detailed worlds and coming-of-age themes.

The Hero and the Crown follows Aerin Dragon-Killer, the "first sol" (female heir) of Damar, as she overcomes physical and psychological challenges, social ostracism, and familial discord to become a hero and queen. She creates a fireproof substance, hunts dragons, fights the ancient black dragon Maur, trains with the immortal sorcerer Luthe, and ultimately defeats her evil sorcerer uncle Agsded.
Individuals who have experienced trauma related to misogyny or ableism may find some of the book's themes challenging.

Adventurous / Fantastical / Inspirational / Romantic

- The Hero and the Crown was awarded the prestigious Newbery Medal in 1985, highlighting its significance and popularity in children's literature.
- Robin McKinley wrote The Hero and the Crown as a prequel to her earlier novel The Blue Sword, which was published in 1982.
- Set in the fictional land of Damar, The Hero and the Crown explores themes of identity and courage, which are central elements in McKinley's celebrated works.

**Aerin Dragon-Killer**  
The protagonist and hero who grows from an inexperienced child to a young adult, navigating her identity and role as the "first sol" of Damar, and is known for her unusual, fiery red hair.

**Tor**  
Aerin’s loyal friend and eventual romantic interest, who is known for his stubborn and good-hearted nature and supports Aerin and her father, Arlbeth, at court.

**Arlbeth**  
The wise and kind king of Damar and Aerin’s father, whose decisions reflect his commitment to the kingdom and his complex relationship with his daughter.

**Galanna**  
Aerin’s beautiful but vain and ambitious cousin who often acts as her antagonist, fueled by jealousy and a desire for social dominance.

**Perlith**  
Galanna’s husband and a character known for his charisma and petty cruelty, serving as a foil to Tor with his slippery nature.

**Maur**  
The ancient Black Dragon of legend whose terrifying presence and aftermath affect Damar and test Aerin’s courage and resilience.

**Agsded**  
Aerin’s wicked and devious uncle on her mother’s side, who serves as a major antagonist in the climactic battle of Aerin’s journey.

**Talat**  
Aerin’s faithful warhorse companion with an injured leg, whose deep bond with her highlights the themes of loyalty and overcoming adversity.

Robin McKinley

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Hero and the Crown reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Hero and the Crown | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Hero and the Crown and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Hero and the Crown Summary

Background

The Hero and the Crown Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Chapters 1-7

The Hero and the Crown Part 1, Chapters 1-7 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapter 8-Part 2, Chapter 13

The Hero and the Crown Part 1, Chapter 8-Part 2, Chapter 13 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 14-18

The Hero and the Crown Part 2, Chapters 14-18 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 19-25

The Hero and the Crown Part 2, Chapters 19-25 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

The Hero and the Crown Character Analysis

theme

Themes

The Hero and the Crown Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Hero and the Crown Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

The Hero and the Crown Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The Hero and the Crown Essay Topics

The Hero and the Crown

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Hero and the Crown?

Reading Age

Book Details