"We Can Be Heroes" by Kyrie McCauley is a gripping tale that delves into the complexities of friendship, love, and seeking justice in the face of tragedy. It can be considered a Public Service Announcement (PSA) for Teen Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, and Gun Violence. Set in a small town dominated by the Bell Gun company, the narrative follows the lives of three best friends, Cassi, Beck, and Vivian, whose world is shattered when Cassi is tragically shot by Nico Bell, the heir to the Bell empire, in a horrifying act of violence at their school.
McCauley deftly weaves together themes of gun violence, teen dating violence, and the quest for justice as Cassi returns as a ghost, haunting her friends Beck and Vivian in her pursuit of closure and retribution. The dynamic between the characters is richly developed, with each grappling with their own survivors remorse in the form of guilt, grief, and determination to make a difference.
What sets "We Can Be Heroes" apart is its unique approach to activism through art. Beck and Vivian channel their grief into anonymous vigilante acts, creating striking murals infused with Greek mythological themes to honor Cassi's memory and raise awareness about the devastating impact of gun violence. McCauley's phrase "Collige Virgo Rosas" roughly translated to "Gather your roses while you still can" gives the murals impactful insight toward the shortness of human life. The murals serve as powerful symbols of resilience and defiance against a system that prioritizes profit over human lives.
As the girls' campaign gains momentum on social media, attracting the attention of anti-gun lobbyists, politicians, and the powerful Bell family themselves, the stakes escalate dramatically. The tension builds as the Bells, desperate to protect their reputation and interests, launch a relentless pursuit to unmask the anonymous artists behind the murals, offering a tantalizing reward for their capture.
McCauley masterfully navigates the complexities of privilege, power, and accountability, her words "Protect our Girls" force the characters and readers alike to confront uncomfortable truths about complicity and the cost of remaining silent in the face of injustice. The narrative unfolds with heart-pounding suspense, making readers wanting a favorable outcome for the characters.
"We Can Be Heroes" is a timely and thought-provoking read that challenges readers to reconsider their perceptions of heroism and the capacity for ordinary individuals to effect meaningful change in a world plagued by violence and inequality. With its compelling characters, poignant themes, and riveting plot twists, Kyrie McCauley's novel is a must-read for anyone passionate about social justice and the power of friendship to overcome adversity.