Grade 2-5-Jim Weiss offers a fast-paced, entertaining storyteller's version of Mark Twain's classic about a prince and a pauper who trade places and, in the process, become decent souls who help the unfortunate and those who have been wronged. Although this abridged version of the wonderful classic loses some of Twain's rich prose and knack for plot twists, Weiss gives a spirited performance that might encourage young listeners to read Twain's book. The story revolves around two 12-year-old boys who resemble each other physically, but lead extremely different lives. Prince Edward resides in a castle and is next in line for the throne of England. Tom Canty endures a life of poverty and abuse at the hands of his thief of a father. They meet and decide to exchange garments and identities. After the King suddenly dies, Tom slips into his new role with great trepidation at first, but then with confidence. He becomes a King for the poor. Weiss reads the tale with energy and finesse, bringing to life the colorful characters. His crusty sounding villains are especially convincing. Weiss does a wonderful job, skillfully acting out this tale of goodness, class, mistaken identity, and redemption. Brian E. Wilson, Evanston Public Library, IL Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Kindle Edition edition.
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