#1 in Ascendance Series
The False Prince
on Goodreads (100,672)
What’s inside...
In a discontent kingdom, civil war is brewing. To unify the divided people, Conner, a nobleman of the court, devises a cunning plan to find an impersonator of the king's long-lost son and install him as a puppet prince. Four orphans are recruited to compete for the role, including a defiant boy named Sage. Sage knows that Conner's motives are more than questionable, yet his life balances on a sword's edge -- he must be chosen to play the prince or he will certainly be killed. But Sage's rivals have their own agendas as well.
Character compass
Discussion points
How do you think Sage feels about being chosen as the false prince? Do you think it's right to pretend to be someone else?
What do you think about the choices Sage makes throughout the story? Would you have done anything differently if you were in his shoes?
The theme of loyalty is central to the book. Who do you think showed real loyalty, and what does being loyal mean to you?
How do the characters in the book change from the beginning to the end? Can people change in real life just like in stories?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that require more than a yes or no answer to encourage your child to think deeply about the themes and characters.
Relate discussions to your child’s experiences. For instance, ask them to compare a dilemma they've faced to one Sage confronts in the book.
Encourage your child to envisage alternative endings or plot twists, which enhances creative thinking and engagement with the text.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: Throughout 'The False Prince', the protagonist, Sage, learns that honesty is crucial in building trust and loyalty among peers. His journey emphasizes the consequences that arise from deception.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of being truthful in their interactions, which fosters trust and stronger relationships with family and friends.
Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: Sage consistently faces difficult challenges and dangerous situations but showcases bravery and resilience. His character demonstrates that courage isn’t the absence of fear, but the ability to persevere despite it.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to tackle their fears head-on, be it trying out for a school play, standing up against bullying, or dealing with a personal setback.
Example Lesson: The power of self-belief
Explanation: Sage's journey is also one of self-discovery and growth. He often doubts himself but ultimately learns to believe in his abilities and worth, showcasing the transformative power of self-belief.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to trust in their own abilities and to understand that self-confidence can lead to accomplishing seemingly impossible tasks and overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: The significance of strategic thinking
Explanation: Throughout the book, Sage uses his wits and strategic thinking to navigate complex situations and outsmart others. This highlights the importance of using intellect and careful planning.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to think critically and plan ahead in their studies, games, and other activities, which are crucial skills for problem-solving in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and leadership
Explanation: As Sage takes on the role of a prince, he learns about the responsibilities it entails and what it means to be a good leader, concerned with the welfare of others.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that being a leader involves caring for others, making hard decisions, and sometimes putting others’ needs before their own.