The Hero's Guide to Storming the Castle

When facing unbeatable odds, just think of yourself as unbeatably odd. (The Hero's Guide to Being a Hero)

No one is defined by a single act," Frederic said. "Whether it was years ago or weeks ago. We're all given chances to change, to make up for things we've done wrong. It's how we handle those opportunities that really matters.

Mere words cannot defeat a true hero. Unless they happen to be the words to some sort of Instant Death Spell. Magic is scary.

Listen up, Mount High-Hair," Gustav barked. "Say what you want about me, but lay off the rest of the team. I've been through a lot of stuff with these people. Nobody can tell me that Fancy Dancer and Lady Slick-Pants aren't heroes. Captain Gloom-Cape over there, too. And even Shrimp Charming has his moments." Briar leaned back in her chair. "I admire your ability to insult your friends *while* you defend them. It's a rare talent.

The people need a hero. But all they've got is . . . me.

When writing down a plan, I suggest numbering the steps. But just in case your plan falls into enemy hands, make sure you number them in the wrong order." - The Hero's Guide to Storming the Castle

Sometimes a hero can be found in the most unexpected of places. That's when you must say to him, "Get out of my kitchen, silly! Don't you have some monsters to fight?" - The Hero's Guide to Being a Hero

It is the villains who covet treasure, not the heroes. Unless the treasure in question is a really snazzy belt buckle, in which case, who can resist? —THE HERO’S GUIDE TO BEING A HERO

You’re never too young to start being a hero. Practice dueling one-handed so you never need to drop your blankie. —THE HERO’S GUIDE TO BEING A HERO

I'm pretty much a goddess around here.

Never regret anything. (If that turns out to be bad advice, I sincerely apologize.)

It's still a cowl," Frederic grumbled (few things could cause him to summon up his inner courage like improper word usage).

By almost any assessment, the giant was a terrible artist. But he was lucky enough to settle in Jangleheim, a nation whose people had notoriously poor taste. Which just goes to show: There's a place for everybody.

If someone stands in your path to glory, crush him. If someone holds you back from achieving your goals, crush him. If someone peppers his speech with too many “ers” or “ums,” crush him.

Knowledge is power. For instance, don’t you feel much more powerful now that you have the knowledge that knowledge is power?

No one is defined by a single act,” Frederic said. “Whether it was years ago or weeks ago. We’re all given chances to change, to make up for things we’ve done wrong. It’s how we handle those opportunities that really matters.

Knowledge is power, for instance. Now that you have the knowledge that knowledge is power, don't you feel more powerful?

Knowledge is power. Now that you have the knowledge that knowledge is power, don't you feel more powerful?

The element of surprise can offer a hero great advantage in battle. The element of oxygen—also important.

A warlord’s home should inspire fear in all who lay eyes on it. The walls should induce shivers; the entryway should instill abject terror. Visions of the welcome mat should haunt visitors in their nightmares.

You really are clueless, aren’t you?” Briar interjected. “No one will sing of your victory—no one can know about your victory. This is a secret mission.” Gustav kicked the table. “Never mind, I’m out,” he grumbled. “But, Gustav,” Ella said. “You might still get the chance to punch someone.” “All right, I’m back in.

Several guards started to rush toward her, but Briar raised her hands to stop them. “Stay back!” she commanded. “No violence near the dress!