The False Prince

By Jennifer Nielsen

This is one of my favorite books to read to kids. I've read it to a few of my classes, and they always enjoy it.  It is quick-witted, action-packed, and full of twists and turns.

In the beginning of the books, you meet Sage, a 14 year old orphan who just stole a turkey.  He's stopped and bought by a wealthy noble named Connor Bevin.  Connor has a plan, a devious plot that is dangerous. Besides Sage, Connor has also bought 3 other 14 year old boys, all orphans that are similar in size and description. One of the boys, Latamer, decides he doesn't want to participate so Connor has him killed to show how serious this is. Sage is furious, but listens well. He's all about what's best for him, and what's best for him right now is not getting killed.

Connor's plan is simple but dangerous. The King, Queen, and Crowned-Prince Darius were killed. The other prince, Jaron, went missing 4 years ago and is assumed dead though no body was ever found. Connor's plan is to take one of the remaining boys and turn him into the lost Prince Jaron, helping him to ascend to the throne.  Connor will not take no for an answer, nor will be be gentle. They have 2 weeks.

Sage is not one for taking orders or doing anything that makes him work.  He defies Connor at every turn, his mouth and quick-wit often getting him into trouble. But he knows that if he's not chosen to be prince, he will be killed.  Sage is also one for many secrets, finding others and keeping his.  He sneaks out every night, climbing around the outside of the manor or tiptoeing through the secret passageways, gathering information.
In the end, Sage makes sure he's the one chosen as Prince. He's got a great secret up his sleeve that thwarts Connor's ultimate plan, and he saves the other two boys. In the end, Sage becomes the Prince.  Many people are not happy, especially Connor who is arrested for killing the King, Queen, and Prince Darius, and war threatens the borders of the country.  All set up for a second book!

What I liked: I love Sage! He is smart, quick, and lively.  He does what is best, even if you don't see it right away. Everything he does has a purpose and reason. He always has a secret plan up his sleeve and a witty remark to throw in your face. He is a fantastic main character.  Some of the side characters are just as wonderful. The story line and twists are spectacular.

There is nothing I didn't like about this book or the other 2 in the series.  These are phenomenal books! I would recommend them for middle school kids and young adults, boys and girls.  It is a fun book!