For children who champion kindness and quiet bravery, this historical story explores how even small acts of courage can make a big difference in the face of injustice.
A parent might reach for this book when their child feels small and powerless in the face of unfairness, and needs to see how quiet courage can make a difference. Based on the real historical mystery of the Princes in the Tower, the story follows a guard's daughter who secretly befriends the two young royals imprisoned by their uncle. It gently explores themes of injustice, fear, and the profound impact of empathy and friendship. This poignant story is a wonderful, accessible introduction to a complex historical moment, focusing on the power of a child's kindness rather than the grim political details, making it appropriate for thoughtful readers aged 7 to 10.
The book deals with the imprisonment of children and the implicit threat of murder. The historical context is serious, but the events are handled with subtlety and from a child's perspective. The resolution is historically accurate in its ambiguity; the princes' ultimate fate is left unknown. This approach is secular and focuses on the emotional impact, ending on a hopeful yet melancholic note about the power of memory and kindness.
Ideal Reader
This book is perfect for a sensitive, empathetic child aged 8 to 10 who is starting to grapple with concepts of fairness and injustice. They likely prefer character-driven stories over fast-paced action and may have an interest in history, mysteries, or royalty. It's for the child who understands that bravery isn't always loud.
Parent Prep
A parent should be prepared to discuss the real history of the Princes in the Tower. The book's ambiguous ending will likely prompt questions. A quick primer on Richard III and the mystery will be helpful. Parents can explain that some parts of history remain unsolved, and the book focuses on what we can do in the face of the unknown: be kind. A parent might be triggered to find this book after their child expresses feelings of helplessness about an unfair situation they witnessed, perhaps at school or in the news. The child may have asked, "Why are people so mean?" or said, "I'm too small to do anything about it."
Age Experience
A younger reader (7-8) will connect most with the secret friendship, the bravery of the girl, and the excitement of passing notes. They will see it as a story of kindness. An older reader (9-10) will better understand the historical stakes, the political injustice, and the profound sadness of the situation. They will appreciate the poignant, unresolved ending and its connection to a real mystery.
What Makes It Special
Among books about historical events, this one is uniquely intimate and quiet. Instead of focusing on large-scale events or adventure, it illuminates a massive historical injustice through the lens of a single, small act of compassion. Its power lies in celebrating quiet, unseen bravery and focusing on emotional connection rather than solving the historical crime.
Read plot summary
In 1483 London, the young daughter of a Yeoman Warder at the Tower discovers that the two young princes, Edward and Richard, are being held prisoner inside. Defying the danger, she begins a secret correspondence with them, passing notes, small treats, and toys. Through this clandestine friendship, she provides them with comfort, hope, and a vital connection to the outside world as their uncle, Richard III, consolidates his power.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
The girl was afraid of getting caught, but she helped the princes anyway. What do you think makes an action brave? Can you be scared and brave at the same time?
2
Why did the small gifts, like the fresh fruit and the spinning top, mean so much to the princes in the tower? How can small acts of kindness make a big difference to someone who is lonely?
3
At the end of the book, we don't find out what happened to the princes. Why do you think the author chose to leave the ending as a mystery? How did that make you feel?
4
The girl’s father is a guard working for the new king, but he allows his daughter to help the imprisoned princes. Do you think he was being loyal or disloyal? Can you be loyal to a person and also loyal to what you believe is right?
