A hero is someone everyone looks up to, a role model if you will. They come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from Superman to Frodo Baggins; touching the lives of their dearest friends as well as complete strangers through their inspirational actions. These actions are results of qualities that every hero must possess in order to achieve their hero status: bravery, loyalty, and compassion. Despite his small stature Owen Meany displays each of these noble traits through love, faith, and friendship in John Irving's A Prayer for Owen Meany, as he becomes a hero in his own right.

Love is a deceiving emotion; one which can make or break a special relationship between two people. This connection must be protected at all costs, along with the person who shares it. Owen protects Hester, Johnny, and his belief in God as well as the bond he shares with...