Stories That Travel Beyond the Page.
Philip Rivenburg Jr. speaks about creating adventurous worlds, developing characters readers care about and finding stories in travel, family, memory and everyday encounters. His talks draw from the Hero To Be series and his short-fiction collections.
A Series That Keeps Moving Forward.
Follow the Journey. Discover the Hero.
The Hero To Be series follows Tom Mellon as unexpected loss leads him into a new family, unfamiliar places and adventures that test his judgement, loyalty and courage.
The Feeling of Flying
Life has a way of changing course when we least expect it, and for Tom Mellon, that moment arrives with a loss that shakes everything he thought he knew. Overnight, the world he grew up in feels unfamiliar, and the path ahead is no longer the one he had planned. As grief settles in, Tom is forced to grow up faster than he ever imagined — learning to carry responsibility, face uncertainty, and find his footing in a life reshaped by sudden change. Yet amid the sorrow, something unexpected begins to take root: a quiet sense of purpose, a pull toward adventure, and the first stirrings of the hero he is destined to become. This is a story about resilience or how the hardest chapters in life can also be the ones that teach us to fly. It's the beginning of a journey that will carry Tom — and the reader — across years, continents, and challenges yet to come.
Turtle Bay
Some journeys take us far from home, and for Tom, this one begins with a single telegram for Uncle Gus What starts as a simple invitation soon turns into an international mission unlike anything Tom has faced before. Joining forces with a talented and unpredictable team, he finds himself navigating unfamiliar cultures, hidden dangers, and high-stakes decisions in the sun-drenched, secret-laden setting of Turtle Bay. Friendship is tested as alliances form and fracture under pressure. Quick thinking becomes the difference between success and disaster. And courage — real courage, not the kind found in stories — is called upon at every turn. As Tom is pushed further outside his comfort zone, he begins to understand that being a hero isn't about having all the answers; it's about showing up when it matters most. Turtle Bay is a fast-paced tale of loyalty, discovery, and the bonds forged when everything is on the line.
Antique Adventure
While traveling in Darwin, Australia, Tom and his companions receive an unexpected message that sends them on a journey to Greece. There, they set out to help a man who once saved Uncle Gus and Bear from Bosnia during the conflict of the 1990s. Although these people have played an important role in Uncle Gus's past, Tom is meeting them for the very first time. As long-buried stories come to light, he discovers the courage, loyalty, and sacrifices that shaped his uncle's life. Filled with history, adventure, and unforgettable characters, Antique Adventure is a thrilling journey that proves the greatest treasures are often the people and stories we uncover along the way.
Jewel Race
Jewel Race takes readers on an exciting journey filled with discovery, challenges, and unexpected turns. As the search begins, Tom and his companions find themselves caught up in an adventure where determination and curiosity are put to the test. What starts as a race to find a valuable jewel soon becomes something much greater, revealing hidden stories, surprising encounters, and opportunities for discovery along the way. Filled with adventure, mystery, and unforgettable moments, Jewel Race is a thrilling journey that reminds us that the greatest rewards are often found in the experiences and people we discover along the way.
Readers Reviews
Readers share their thoughts on the characters, adventures and imaginative worlds found throughout Philip Rivenburg Jr.’s books.
‘The Feeling of Flying gives Tom a powerful beginning. His loss feels real, while his growing relationship with Uncle Gus brings warmth, humour and hope.’
‘Turtle Bay expands the series without losing its heart. The international setting, lively supporting characters and family dynamic kept me turning the pages.’
‘Antique Adventure balances danger with humour and genuine affection between the characters. The Greek setting gives the third adventure a strong personality.’
‘The Hero To Be books feel like travelling with a close group of friends. Every new destination brings action, laughter and another lesson for Tom.’