The Chosen Prince

November 17, 2014
On the day of Prince Alexos’s birth, the gods decree that he is destined for greatness, catalyzing a life of hardship as the prince attempts to fulfill this prophecy. An outsider among his peers, afflicted with an illness that damages his legs, 12-year-old Alexos is finally driven by anguish to leave his helpless younger brother, Teo, for dead by casting him out to sea alone. But through the goddess Athene’s intervention, Alexos finds his way to a magical island where the brothers’ purpose is revealed. Stanley’s (The Silver Bowl) lush descriptions of the fog-shrouded island, which comes alive to respond to inhabitants’ needs, hark back to the mythological roots from which she draws inspiration. Much of the story is relayed through dialogue, and Stanley’s characters are prone to lengthy speeches used to explain the Arcoferrans’ long suffering and espouse their feelings, making for some stilted exchanges. But, overall, Stanley’s storytelling infuses each character and hardship with distinct purposes that coalesce and become clear to readers by book’s end for a tidy finale that leaves no unanswered questions. Ages 8–12. Agent: Marcia Wernick, Wernick & Pratt.

Starred review from December 1, 2014

Gr 5-8-Stanley's newest fantasy, set in ancient Greece, is a bittersweet delight. Prince Alexos learns early that being the champion of a goddess does not make for an easy life. Alexos is destined to bring about reconciliation between battling gods, Athene and Zeus, if he can survive a childhood filled with near-impossible challenge and little joy, except for his love of running and his little brother Teo. However, by the age of 12, even these are lost to him. As he struggles to regain the use of his legs and recover from causing the death of his beloved brother, Alexos learns from a wise mentor, develops relationships with people from all levels of society, and becomes a force for good. At the same time, he is comforted by visions of his brother in the land of the dead, living an idyllic life with a new father and sister. However, the protagonist soon learns that all is not as it seems. Alexos is a strong character, capable of accepting and adapting to change, even as he struggles with heartbreak and almost insurmountable odds. Other characters-especially the court physician Suliman and Teo's new sister Aria-are equally well done. The language is lyrical and accessible, and the end is satisfying in the extreme.-Mara Alpert, Los Angeles Public Library

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