Friday, March 10, 2023

The Whipping Boy (Sid Fleischman)

Jemmy, former street rat, has the unenviable job of being Prince Horace's whipping boy (he is punished whenever the prince does something wrong). And they don't call him "Prince Brat" behind his back for nothing . . . needless to say, Jemmy's life has its hardships. But things take a turn for the worse when Prince Brat decides to run away one day and commands that Jemmy accompany him. The adventure turns south when the boys are caught by thieves. Out of his element, Prince Brat will learn what it means to have—and be—a friend.

An award-winning children's book, I really enjoyed this. It's about the need for (and value of) friendship. It becomes clear that the unlucky one is Prince Brat, who (despite his royal upbringing) is terribly lonesome and sad. Being spoiled may have its advantages, but a true friend is worth his weight in gold.

Rating: A

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