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She-Ra Chapter Book #1
Origin of a Hero
She doesn't need a hero. She is a hero.
On a planet called Etheria, two forces battle for control. The Horde, with its skillfully trained soldiers and advanced technology, has one goal: to conquer all of Etheria in the name of Hordak. The other force, the Rebellion, is made up of princesses and has been fighting to maintain harmony and freedom for all of Etheria's people.
Hidden among them all is a hero to be. Her destiny was written by the First Ones a thousand years ago. Now she is about to rise again.
Discover the origin of a hero in this first chapter book in the series! This book expands on the plotlines of the first two episodes, giving readers a deeper glimpse into their favorite hero's backstory.
On a planet called Etheria, two forces battle for control. The Horde, with its skillfully trained soldiers and advanced technology, has one goal: to conquer all of Etheria in the name of Hordak. The other force, the Rebellion, is made up of princesses and has been fighting to maintain harmony and freedom for all of Etheria's people.
Hidden among them all is a hero to be. Her destiny was written by the First Ones a thousand years ago. Now she is about to rise again.
Discover the origin of a hero in this first chapter book in the series! This book expands on the plotlines of the first two episodes, giving readers a deeper glimpse into their favorite hero's backstory.
Audiobook
First published April 30, 2019
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662 people want to read
About the author
Tracey West
724 books539 followersTracey West is the New York Times bestselling author of Dragon Masters, a series in the Scholastic Branches line. She has written more than 400 books for kids, including the Pixie Tricks series and the Underdogs series with Kyla May.
Some readers also know Tracey for writing books based on animation such as Pokémon and LEGO Ninjago.
She currently lives in the western Catskills of New York with her husband, Bill; their adopted dogs; and a whole mess of chickens.
Some readers also know Tracey for writing books based on animation such as Pokémon and LEGO Ninjago.
She currently lives in the western Catskills of New York with her husband, Bill; their adopted dogs; and a whole mess of chickens.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
May 18, 2019
"Shadow Weaver told her she'd been abandoned in the Fright Zone as a baby and adopted by the Horde. That was all she knew about her past."
Anyone who has watched the first so many episodes of the new She-Ra and the Princesses of Power on Netflix will be aware of what happens in this book. The first four chapters take place prior to the events of the first episode's opening (which we get in story form beginning with this book's fifth chapter.) Tracey West does a nice job of adapting the script and story from the first two episodes into chapters in the book, while giving us greater insight in the character voices and thoughts for the characters we follow from chapter to chapter, be it Adora or Glimmer (or, on very rare occurrence, Catra.)
The first four chapters additionally give us a look into the failed first mission Glimmer has, and we see a little more of the bond between Adora and Catra prior to the training test we're introduced to them with in the show. It isn't much, true, but I consider this a nice little touch that helps shape and round out Adora, Catra and Glimmer as individuals, and allows some allusion to their individual actions later through the series.
I think my only complaints with this are the abrupt point at which it ends, and moments where the POV focus shifts between characters. Otherwise, this was a fun little book adaptation of the first couple of episodes of the show and the extra information was, I think, worth it for the purchase.
Anyone who has watched the first so many episodes of the new She-Ra and the Princesses of Power on Netflix will be aware of what happens in this book. The first four chapters take place prior to the events of the first episode's opening (which we get in story form beginning with this book's fifth chapter.) Tracey West does a nice job of adapting the script and story from the first two episodes into chapters in the book, while giving us greater insight in the character voices and thoughts for the characters we follow from chapter to chapter, be it Adora or Glimmer (or, on very rare occurrence, Catra.)
The first four chapters additionally give us a look into the failed first mission Glimmer has, and we see a little more of the bond between Adora and Catra prior to the training test we're introduced to them with in the show. It isn't much, true, but I consider this a nice little touch that helps shape and round out Adora, Catra and Glimmer as individuals, and allows some allusion to their individual actions later through the series.
I think my only complaints with this are the abrupt point at which it ends, and moments where the POV focus shifts between characters. Otherwise, this was a fun little book adaptation of the first couple of episodes of the show and the extra information was, I think, worth it for the purchase.
April 11, 2019
@Kidlitexchange #partner - I received a copy of this book from the Kidlitexchange network in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Releasing 4/30/19
This is the origin story of She-ra as a novelisation of the new Netflix series. Adora an orphan raised and trained by the Horde, crosses paths with Glimmer a Princess and her best friend Bow. Through a series of unfortunate circumstances Adora decides to find out more about her warrior self and turns her back on the Horde.
The book definitely follows the Netflix first episode closely. So if you’ve seen it already and enjoyed it you will most likely enjoy the book as well. A very few number of scenes here and there are different but in a way that adds more context without changing anything major.
Releasing 4/30/19
This is the origin story of She-ra as a novelisation of the new Netflix series. Adora an orphan raised and trained by the Horde, crosses paths with Glimmer a Princess and her best friend Bow. Through a series of unfortunate circumstances Adora decides to find out more about her warrior self and turns her back on the Horde.
The book definitely follows the Netflix first episode closely. So if you’ve seen it already and enjoyed it you will most likely enjoy the book as well. A very few number of scenes here and there are different but in a way that adds more context without changing anything major.
February 12, 2022
Me encantó la serie y tenía ganas de volver a saber más de los personajes, así que cuando vi que existía este libro no pude resistirme a leerlo.
Nos cuenta el primer capítulo de la serie de netflix con algunas variaciones 😉
Me ha gustado mucho volver a reencontrarme con el Best Friends Squad!!!
Nos cuenta el primer capítulo de la serie de netflix con algunas variaciones 😉
Me ha gustado mucho volver a reencontrarme con el Best Friends Squad!!!
October 14, 2020
are you a "here have this rock it matches your eyes" gay or "look how many pull ups i can do on your top bunk while we have a conversation" gay
August 1, 2019
This was a fun little book. I will say I was expecting a new story, but this is basically just the first episode of the Rebooted TV Show on netflix in book form (if you haven't seen that yet I would highly recommend it, its a lot of fun). I enjoyed this book about the same as I enjoyed that episode.
Note: I listened to the audiobook of this. I enjoyed the narration overall but Glimmer sounded so whiny, otherwise its good.
Note: I listened to the audiobook of this. I enjoyed the narration overall but Glimmer sounded so whiny, otherwise its good.
November 24, 2025
"I didn't know being a princess was contagious!!" - Adora | It's mostly just the first 2 episodes of the show combined but, there is also extra context, inner thoughts, and interesting descriptions that give fans a bit more to chomp on.
April 8, 2020
Listen. Nothing holds a candle to the original. Not a fan of all the remakes that have been happening the last few years. And this is no exception.
November 20, 2025
i need more she ra content in my life lol
March 8, 2021
FOR THE HONOR OF GRAYSKULL 🧝♀️
June 1, 2019
I absolutely loved, and still love, the original 1980's She-Ra. The story, the characters, her origin story and connection to He-Man, it was just such an original, fantastic cartoon to me. When I heard they were doing a new show, then saw they were writing books, I got very excited. Now, full disclosure, I have not seen any of the shows, so far just read this book. Overall, I was a little let down.
The title is Origin of a Hero, however, in my view, within the pages of this book, we learn next to nothing about She-Ra, about why Adora becomes her, about Adora's connection to Eternia, about her ability to read First One's language. In short, we learn next to nothing about her origins. We see her early life in the Fright Zone with her best friend Catra, and we see a very slim amount about the Rebels Bow and Glimmer. That is pretty much all, though, and that to me was very disappointing. Since I don't really know what her origin is going to turn out to be, I will reserve full judgement for now, but I hope it fills out more. One thing that really bugged me was the Sword, seemingly coming from Light Hope but having a connection to Grayskull. I just hope all is explained in later books.
will say, I like that so many of the characters are women, or girls, even Light Hope. That I find very cool, though I will say Glimmer is still an annoying brat. I look forward to meeting more princesses and seeing how my old favorite characters are newly portrayed. Much of the Etheria I remember and love is recreated in spectacular fashion, and I can't wait to see other lands.
I must say, I also really liked how at odds Adora was with her two natures. In the 80′s cartoon she was quick to accept, here, she is not. It worries her this She-Ra character. Who is she, and why was she chosen? She was also very reluctant to abandon the Horde mentality which seemed a very real reaction to me.
Overall, I found the story really thin, but full of potential in future books.
The title is Origin of a Hero, however, in my view, within the pages of this book, we learn next to nothing about She-Ra, about why Adora becomes her, about Adora's connection to Eternia, about her ability to read First One's language. In short, we learn next to nothing about her origins. We see her early life in the Fright Zone with her best friend Catra, and we see a very slim amount about the Rebels Bow and Glimmer. That is pretty much all, though, and that to me was very disappointing. Since I don't really know what her origin is going to turn out to be, I will reserve full judgement for now, but I hope it fills out more. One thing that really bugged me was the Sword, seemingly coming from Light Hope but having a connection to Grayskull. I just hope all is explained in later books.
will say, I like that so many of the characters are women, or girls, even Light Hope. That I find very cool, though I will say Glimmer is still an annoying brat. I look forward to meeting more princesses and seeing how my old favorite characters are newly portrayed. Much of the Etheria I remember and love is recreated in spectacular fashion, and I can't wait to see other lands.
I must say, I also really liked how at odds Adora was with her two natures. In the 80′s cartoon she was quick to accept, here, she is not. It worries her this She-Ra character. Who is she, and why was she chosen? She was also very reluctant to abandon the Horde mentality which seemed a very real reaction to me.
Overall, I found the story really thin, but full of potential in future books.
November 30, 2023
SO GOOD! I found She-Ra Chapter Book #1: Origin of a Hero to be an excellent blend of adventure, technology, and character development. The book provides an engaging origin story for She-Ra that sparked the interest of my two children. The narrative balances magic and technology in an accessible way, the characters are diverse and relatable, and the dialogue is age-appropriate and engaging.
The book also deals with complex themes such as friendship, bravery, and good vs. evil in a kid-friendly manner. I appreciated the book's progressive approach to gender roles, presenting She-Ra as a strong, compassionate female superhero. The illustrations complement the narrative, bringing the vibrant world of Etheria to life. In short, it's a captivating read that offers a thought-provoking and empowering adventure for children.
The book also deals with complex themes such as friendship, bravery, and good vs. evil in a kid-friendly manner. I appreciated the book's progressive approach to gender roles, presenting She-Ra as a strong, compassionate female superhero. The illustrations complement the narrative, bringing the vibrant world of Etheria to life. In short, it's a captivating read that offers a thought-provoking and empowering adventure for children.
July 15, 2019
We weren’t quite ready for this one. There weren’t pictures throughout, just one to start each chapter. Plus with all the action scenes it was a little hard to follow along.
To be fair, I was more excited to read this for childhood nostalgia. Although it’s based on the Netflix reboot instead of the 80s cartoon. So while the characters were the same and the essence was similar, all of the details were new.
There is a sequel, and likely more come, and while part of me wants to read the next, it will likely be awhile. Or instead we could just watch the new show because I’m assuming it will follow pretty closely.
3.5/5
To be fair, I was more excited to read this for childhood nostalgia. Although it’s based on the Netflix reboot instead of the 80s cartoon. So while the characters were the same and the essence was similar, all of the details were new.
There is a sequel, and likely more come, and while part of me wants to read the next, it will likely be awhile. Or instead we could just watch the new show because I’m assuming it will follow pretty closely.
3.5/5
June 13, 2020
3.5*
This book is for readers aged 6 - 8, so I wasn't expecting much. The writing style is clear, not a lot of detail but it's easy to envision everything, and would be a great book for children.
The first four chapters are all original content, and that's what I was here for. The rest of the book is just a retelling of the first two episodes with some internal dialogue/thoughts, which didn't add much to the story for me, but if I was younger I'm sure I would have loved it.
The first four chapters were great though, and I loved getting a bit of a lead-up to the events in the Netflix series for both Adora/Catra and for Glimmer.
This book is for readers aged 6 - 8, so I wasn't expecting much. The writing style is clear, not a lot of detail but it's easy to envision everything, and would be a great book for children.
The first four chapters are all original content, and that's what I was here for. The rest of the book is just a retelling of the first two episodes with some internal dialogue/thoughts, which didn't add much to the story for me, but if I was younger I'm sure I would have loved it.
The first four chapters were great though, and I loved getting a bit of a lead-up to the events in the Netflix series for both Adora/Catra and for Glimmer.
Read
September 23, 2025this was a fun read - the first few chapters are new content, while the rest of the book covers the first two episodes of the actual show, right up to when Adora goes to the town with Bow and Glimmer. I have a feeling the next book won’t include the end of the second episode where Adora and Catra cut ties, which kind of feels important, but I guess this is a kids book. the dialogue was almost exact except for a few changes that helped cut the episodes to book length, while some changes seemed a bit unnecessary. it was good though, everyone was in character, and it was very entertaining.
May 1, 2019
I bought this for my daughter but just had to read it first.
This is true to the reinvented Netflix series but both are so true to the real intent and meaning behind the fabulous 80s show.
Adora is an orphan raised by the Horde and Shadow Weaver. Her destiny is to become a force captain until the day she spots a shining sword in the Whispering Woods.
Wonderful writing, nice clear pictures from the show.
My daughter will be so excited to see this at breakfast tomorrow!
This is true to the reinvented Netflix series but both are so true to the real intent and meaning behind the fabulous 80s show.
Adora is an orphan raised by the Horde and Shadow Weaver. Her destiny is to become a force captain until the day she spots a shining sword in the Whispering Woods.
Wonderful writing, nice clear pictures from the show.
My daughter will be so excited to see this at breakfast tomorrow!
January 2, 2020
*I received a free review copy of this book from the publisher through my district library services*
I have not watched this show, but I know it is popular because I had several students express interest in some books at our book fair in the fall. If you are not familiar with the show, I believe this is the origin story about how Adora became She Ra. I can't comment on how well it follows the show, but I found it entertaining and a fun read. The front matter reads a bit empty, but I thought the writing of the book was just fine. Your She Ra fans will probably snap this up.
I have not watched this show, but I know it is popular because I had several students express interest in some books at our book fair in the fall. If you are not familiar with the show, I believe this is the origin story about how Adora became She Ra. I can't comment on how well it follows the show, but I found it entertaining and a fun read. The front matter reads a bit empty, but I thought the writing of the book was just fine. Your She Ra fans will probably snap this up.
September 1, 2025
This was fun... but it was literally the first episode in book form. The first few chapters were original, which got me excited, but then they merged into the first episode, with literal dialogue copied word for word. I'm looking forward to the next one though as that's completely original. If you're a big fan of the show, this one can just be skipped.
May 5, 2019
This is a novelization of the first two episodes of the new She-Ra series (which is terrific, by the way). With this book you don’t get some of the nuanced character bits that you catch in animation but it’s still enjoyable. I look forward to giving it to my niece who’s about to turn 8.
November 7, 2019
Great adaptation, but doesn't even cover first episode!
I know YA books are all about cliffhangers that don't even let you hang by your fingernails, but this doesn't even get to the end of the first episode! The adaptation is great, but it feels really short as a result.
I know YA books are all about cliffhangers that don't even let you hang by your fingernails, but this doesn't even get to the end of the first episode! The adaptation is great, but it feels really short as a result.
December 16, 2019
Having been a She Ra fan since childhood, I was intrigued by the reboot on Netflix. Not bad, but not the same. This middle grade novel was disappointing though. It’s basically just a novelization if the first episode or so of the Netflix show, and didn’t offer anything more to the reader.
December 27, 2020
The book follows the first episode of the show exactly, including all the same dialogue, with very little deviance (mostly just the addition of some internal thoughts), so if you’ve seen the show, you already know everything that happens.
July 11, 2022
7/11/2022 ~ Tracey West delivers another solid early chapter book for developing readers. Strong female lead. Perhaps a few too many characters to keep track of early on, but I assume all will play a role in later books in the series.
July 10, 2019
A new generation of girl fantasy heroes emerge.
August 30, 2019
This is a very good novelization of the first episode with a few original bits here and there.
March 20, 2020
Great adaptation of the show. My 8 year old loves it.
March 25, 2020
It gets four stars because the author misread the dynamic between Catra and Adora in the show. They aren't sisters, they're in love with each other. Other than that the book is fine.
September 16, 2020
La mayor parte del libro es una repetición del primer capítulo y, aunque en los primeros capítulos se adelanta un poco a la trama de la serie, no aporta gran cosa.
December 28, 2020
I enjoyed the novelization of the first episode, as well as the siege of Elberon that was mentioned. This was a nice supplementary material to the show.
January 2, 2021
Literally a children's book which I did not necessarily realize when putting on hold from the library, and also IIRC a novelization of the first episode of the show, but hey I enjoyed it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews