The False Prince

Reading Jennifer A. Nielsen's The False Prince and finding it very difficult to put down.  This is an extremely busy time of year for me and I don't have more than 15-20 minutes each day to read.  That's just not enough for me.  I'm experiencing the segmented story line that so many of my students complain about.  Those who don't read daily really have trouble connecting with a book.  Those who don't read enough during each day find themselves disliking the plot because they can't immerse themselves in it.  I'm writing this blog entry as I am exactly 15 chapters in.  Hoping I can find time soon to finish the book and provide a proper review.  I can tell this is a wonderful example of fantasy.  I know my students will love it.  I just have to be able to booktalk it with enthusiasm and right now, I'm like "eh".  Not good!
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I've got great news to share now that I've finished the book! There's an amazing twist about 3/4 in and I was mesmerized from that point on.  So much so that I finished the book and the sequel in one day!  In the first book, Sage's character is witty and mischievous.  Loved him!  However, he's much more of a planner than I inferred.  His hidden agendas throughout the book were a welcome surprise.  In The Runaway King, I find his character to be less prepared...without a plan.  He "shoots from the hip" quite often and his aim is off!  It's obvious the author wants us readers to understand Sage's uncertainty as he navigates through this new storyline.  

I'm very impressed with Nielsen as an author.  She weaves plots together like a fine craftsman.  My students will enjoy the intrigue of this fantasy.  Now if I can just convince them this is not historical fiction, I'll be doing my job!  Nielsen is quite convincing.  

Happy Reading!
RC