Helpful Score: 4
This is not a particularly easy book for youngsters to read, because there's quite a bit of old fashioned language which has to be explained. I suppose that's good, but not if your child is constantly stopping asking what a word means, it takes the joy out of reading. Actually there were some words I didn't understand! So it's a challenge for the 8-10 yr old range if that's what you want.
Helpful Score: 3
For kids to get their dose of action and thrills, they need not always go to the local multiplex for the latest bang 'em up film. They could try such books as The Whipping Boy, which relies not on exploding spaceships and demonic robots but mythic story, humorous characters and, ready or not, a moral. The plot involves the orphan Jemmy, who must take the whippings for the royal heir, Prince Brat. Jemmy plans to flee this arrangement until Prince Brat beats him to it, and takes Jemmy along. Jemmy then hears he's charged with the Prince's abduction as this Newbery Medal winning book turns toward a surprising close
Helpful Score: 3
A beautiful story, both historically accurate and exciting. May be a little dry for some kids, but the sly humour is perfect for others.
Helpful Score: 2
top notch story - fun to read aloud with the different dialects.
Helpful Score: 2
I read this book to my students (4th - 5th grade) every year and they always want more!
A great quick read.
A great quick read.
