Alexandra Bracken's 'Prosper Redding The Last Life of Prince Alastor' is a robust and imaginative middle-grade fantasy that plunges readers into a richly detailed world of demons, ancient feuds, and high-stakes adventure. The story centers on Prosper Redding, a human boy who shares a body with the fiend Prince Alastor, and their reluctant alliance to rescue Prosper's sister from the clutches of the malevolent Queen Pyra. The narrative skillfully handles sensitive topics like sacrifice, prejudice, and the nature of good and evil, presenting them through the lens of a fantastical realm on the brink of destruction. The emotional arc is one of initial antagonism and fear, evolving into a complex understanding and burgeoning trust, culminating in a hopeful, albeit hard-won, triumph.
This book is specifically for readers aged 8-12 who enjoy intricate world-building, morally gray characters, and fast-paced plots. A parent might reach for this when their child has exhausted more traditional fantasy series and is ready for something with a bit more edge and thematic depth. Parents should be prepared to discuss concepts such as 'eternal servitude,' the darker aspects of the demon realm, and the ethical dilemmas Prosper faces. Younger readers (8-9) might find some scenes intense, particularly those involving the Void or the implications of the contract, while older readers (10-12) will appreciate the nuanced character development and complex plot twists. What sets this book apart from others on similar themes is its unique premise of a human and a demon sharing a body, forcing an intimate understanding and eventual empathy between two beings from warring lineages, offering a fresh take on the 'unlikely allies' trope.
