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The Lost Prince (Burnett novel) facts for kids

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The Lost Prince
The Lost Prince Century Co.jpg
First edition cover
Author Frances Hodgson Burnett
Illustrator Maurice L. Bower
Country United Kingdom
United States
Language English
Genre Children's novel
Ruritanian romance
Publisher Hodder & Stoughton (UK)
Century Co. (US)
Publication date
1915
Media type Print (Hardback & Paperback)
Pages 415 pp (first edition)
321 pp (1971 Puffin paperback abr. ed.)
ISBN 0-8488-1253-0

The Lost Prince is an exciting novel written by British-American author Frances Hodgson Burnett. It was first published in 1915. This story takes readers on a thrilling adventure across Europe.

What is The Lost Prince About?

This book follows a young boy named Marco Loristan. He lives with his father, Stefan. Marco also becomes good friends with a street boy known as "The Rat."

Marco's Father and Samavia

Marco's father, Stefan, is a brave man. He is a Samavian patriot. This means he deeply loves his home country, Samavia. Stefan wants to free Samavia from its harsh rulers. He hopes to bring back the rightful king.

A New Friend in London

Marco and his father move to London. There, Marco meets The Rat. The Rat is a street boy who uses crutches. Their friendship begins when Marco hears The Rat giving military commands. Marco soon learns that The Rat leads a secret club. It's called the Squad. The boys in the Squad practice drills. The Rat is very smart and imaginative. He teaches the other boys a lot.

The Secret Mission Begins

Stefan, Marco's father, has a clever idea. He realizes that two boys traveling together will not attract much attention. So, he gives Marco and The Rat a very important secret mission. They must travel all over Europe. Their task is to deliver a secret sign. The sign is: 'The Lamp is lighted.'

Who Carries the Sign?

Marco is chosen to be the "Bearer of the Sign." This means he carries the message. The Rat joins him as his "Aide-de-Camp." This is a military term for an assistant. The Rat chose this title himself!

The Revolution and Return

Their secret mission helps start a big change. A revolution begins in Samavia. It successfully removes the old, unfair rulers. The rightful king is then put back on the throne.

When Marco and The Rat return to London, Stefan has already gone to Samavia. The boys wait with Lazarus, Stefan's loyal bodyguard. They wait until Stefan calls for them.

A Surprising Discovery

The book ends with a very exciting moment. Marco realizes something amazing. His father, Stefan, is a descendant of Ivor Fedorovitch. This means Stefan himself is the true, rightful king of Samavia!

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