Author: Jennifer A. Nielsen
Recommended Age: 12-14
Genre: Fantasy
Summary: Sage is a ragged orphan with a habit for getting himself into trouble. When he is kidnapped by a cruel lord, Bevin Conner, Sage is tasked with becoming the missing Prince Jaron of Carthya. But alongside Sage, there are two other boys competing for the same position. And whoever fails in their role will die.
Notes from The Radical Reader:
- Noble Characters: Sage is one of the most unique literary characters I have ever read. The story stays exclusively in his head, providing the reader with a close look at this boy’s wittiness, curiosity, and inclination to getting himself in trouble. Younger readers will find themselves loving this story with its brilliant hero and mind-boggling plot.
- Captivating Plots: The young prince died as a child. Now, the royal family has been murdered in their sleep. As anarchy threatens the throne, can a false prince arise and take over the kingdom? This is exactly Bevin Conner’s wish, and he will do anything, even kill, to shape one boy into the exact likeness of Prince Jaron who died so many years before. Enduring cruel treatment, bitter rivalries, and threats on all sides, Sage is forced to become Prince Jaron and take over a kingdom he doesn’t want.
- Elaborate Worlds: The kingdom of Carthya is one where greedy lords scheme and plot, bloodthirsty pirates patrol the waters, and princes arise from desperate situations. Through Sage’s journey, we discover hidden islands, ancient mysteries, and secrets that startle even those closest to him.
Noteworthy Elements:
- Profanity: The main character, Sage, frequently curses and offers derogatory insults to his enemies. Explicit words are never written, and many are made-up insults.
- Spiritual: The story is medieval fantasy, but there are references to the priests and the saints. It is implied that a good person becomes a saint when they die. Also, the main character, Sage, frequently references the devils as the ones who mess up his plans.
