The Cruel Prince
Book • 2018
by Holly Black
By #1 New York Times bestselling author Holly Black, the first book in a stunning new series about a mortal girl who finds herself caught in a web of royal faerie intrigue. Of course I want to be like them. They're beautiful as blades forged in some divine fire. They will live forever. And Cardan is even more beautiful than the rest. I hate him more than all the others. I hate him so much that sometimes when I look at him, I can hardly breathe. Jude was seven years old when her parents were murdered and she and her two sisters were stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. Ten years later, Jude wants nothing more than to belong there, despite her mortality. But many of the fey despise humans. Especially Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King. To win a place at the Court, she must defy him?and face the consequences. In doing so, she becomes embroiled in palace intrigues and deceptions, discovering her own capacity for bloodshed. But as civil war threatens to drown the Courts of Faerie in violence, Jude will need to risk her life in a dangerous alliance to save her sisters, and Faerie itself.
The Cruel Prince
Book • 2018
by Holly Black
By #1 New York Times bestselling author Holly Black, the first book in a stunning new series about a mortal girl who finds herself caught in a web of royal faerie intrigue. Of course I want to be like them. They're beautiful as blades forged in some divine fire. They will live forever. And Cardan is even more beautiful than the rest. I hate him more than all the others. I hate him so much that sometimes when I look at him, I can hardly breathe. Jude was seven years old when her parents were murdered and she and her two sisters were stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. Ten years later, Jude wants nothing more than to belong there, despite her mortality. But many of the fey despise humans. Especially Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King. To win a place at the Court, she must defy him?and face the consequences. In doing so, she becomes embroiled in palace intrigues and deceptions, discovering her own capacity for bloodshed. But as civil war threatens to drown the Courts of Faerie in violence, Jude will need to risk her life in a dangerous alliance to save her sisters, and Faerie itself.
Suggested Age
Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.
The narrative features complex themes of political intrigue, betrayal, and violence. The story also involves mature themes of power struggles and manipulation requiring a higher level of comprehension.
Content Safety Breakdown
Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content
Sex & Nudity
the available information mentions romantic tension and the allure of the fae, suggesting some mild romantic elements and possibly suggestive dialogue, but no explicit content is indicated.
Violence & Gore
The story involves betrayal, murder, palace intrigue, civil war, and a capacity for bloodshed, suggesting moderate violence with potential for injuries or intense action sequences, though it's unlikely to be overly graphic given the book's target audience.
Profanity
While not heavily emphasized, the available information mentions the 'wickedest' prince and the overall treacherous nature of the fae court, which could include some mild profanity used in moments of anger or defiance. Specific words are not detailed, so we assume occasional mild language.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
There are no direct mentions of alcohol, drugs, or smoking in the available information; however, in a royal court setting, background social drinking or smoking might be implied but not a significant plot point.
Frightening Scenes
the available information points to treacherous court intrigue, potential civil war, and a character needing to risk her life, indicating suspenseful and potentially disturbing themes and intense situations. The fae themselves might also be depicted in frightening ways.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
This story is about a brave human girl who is taken to live in a magical world with fairies. She has to be very clever and strong to survive among them, especially when she hates a mean fairy prince.
Content Warnings
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
Features significant violence, including implied and direct bloodshed. The narrative is filled with intricate political machinations and betrayals, which may be intense for younger viewers. Themes of power and manipulation are central.
What Kids Can Learn
This book encourages understanding of perseverance and fighting for one's identity in challenging circumstances. It prompts reflection on the nature of power and the consequences of ambition.
Key Topics Discussed
Why Parents Might Like It
Adult readers may appreciate the complex world-building, morally grey characters, and intricate plotlines that echo classic fantasy tropes with a darker edge.
Positives & Learning
What makes this content valuable for children
Positive Messages
Jude demonstrates resilience and a strong will to survive in a hostile environment. The story emphasizes the importance of belonging and fighting for one's place, even against overwhelming odds.
Positive Role Models
Jude is a determined protagonist who learns to navigate a dangerous world. While driven by a desire for acceptance, her methods can be morally ambiguous, limiting her as a purely positive role model.
Diverse Representations
No diverse representations indicated in available information, beyond the human protagonist in a world of fey.
Educational Value
Explores themes of political maneuvering and social dynamics within a fantastical setting. Promotes critical thinking about power structures and navigating complex relationships.
Parent Reviews(0)
Share your experience to help other parents
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts about this book!