The Ring of the Slave Prince
not part of a series
on Goodreads (654)
What’s inside...
Fourteen-year-old Tom O'Connor, a poor, adventurous, charming liar who lives with his mother and half sister at a tavern on the island of Nevis in 1639, rescues a slave from drowning, learns he is a prince, and brings him home to Cape Verde, hoping for a grand reward. Throughout his rogue adventures involving piracy, slave owners, witch burning, shipwrecks, desert islands and larger-than-life characters, Tom's perceptions of good and evil, truth and lies, right and wrong are challenged. Eventually, when he discovers that the prince is really a fisherman's son, he realizes he has developed a disregard for greed and a new appreciation for other people's well-being.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-14
Length
384 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the setting in different parts of the world influence Tom's adventure?
What qualities do you admire in Tom and why?
If you were in Tom's place, how would you have handled the challenges he faced?
What lessons do you think Tom learned by the end of the story?
How do the characters in the book show the importance of friendship and trust?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story’s setting, discussing how they would feel and react in similar situations. Use descriptive language from the book to help them visualize scenes. Highlight the moral choices characters make to foster a deeper understanding of ethical decision-making. After discussing each question, relate the themes back to your child’s experiences to personalize the learning and deepen their connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: In 'The Ring of the Slave Prince,' the protagonist Tom faces numerous challenges but continually pushes through adversity to accomplish his goals.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist through difficulties in their studies, sports, or other activities, understanding that success often comes after persistent efforts.
Example Lesson: Understanding history's impact
Explanation: The novel interweaves historical elements that help the young reader appreciate the consequences of past events on present circumstances.
Real-World Application: Children can develop an interest in learning history and understanding how it shapes our world today, fostering a deeper respect for diverse cultures and heritages.
Example Lesson: The value of courage and bravery
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, Tom showcases bravery when confronting dangers that help him grow and succeed.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their fears whether it's trying something new or standing up for what is right, reinforcing the importance of courage in everyday life.
Example Lesson: The significance of friendship and trust
Explanation: Tom builds relationships with characters who help him in his journey, illustrating how trust and friendship are crucial to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of building and maintaining trustful relationships, aiding their social development and teamwork skills.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: Tom makes several mistakes during his quest, but each error teaches him valuable lessons that aid in his personal growth.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that mistakes are a natural part of learning and that important lessons often come from these experiences.