The Lost Prince - (The Frances Hodgson Burnett Essential Collection) by Frances Hodgson Burnett

About the Book

Marco Loristan, a twelve-year-old refugee, and his friend, a hunchback orphan named The Rat, embark on a dangerous journey across Europe to bring freedom to Marco's beleaguered homeland of Samavia.

Book Synopsis

Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic story of a boy and his father's search for the lost prince of Samavia is back with a gorgeous new cover.

Twelve-year-old Marco Loristan has spent his life moving from place to place with his father, Stefan, always hiding their heritage. Their home country of Samavia has been in turmoil ever since the king was overthrown five hundred years ago, and now its people are forced to fight in the armies of warring factions. But legend has it that the heir of the true king escaped, and his descendant is waiting until the time is right to reclaim the throne and restore peace to the country.

While living in London, Marco learns of a secret his father has been hiding: Stefan knows the identity of the lost prince and that he'll reveal himself soon. But they have to spread the word to the prince's supporters. And to do that, they'll need a messenger who can escape the notice of the current ruler's spies--someone like a young boy.

With the help of an orphan he befriends in London, Marco is tasked with traveling across Europe to share the news, preparing the way for the lost prince to return.

About the Author

Frances Hodgson Burnett (1849-1924) was born in Manchester, England, but moved to America as a teenager. A gifted writer from childhood, Burnett took to writing as a means of supporting her family, creating stories for Lady's Book, Harper's Bazaar, and other magazines. Though she began writing novels for adults, she gained lasting success writing for children. She is best known for Little Lord Fauntleroy (1855-1856), A Little Princess (1905), and The Secret Garden (1911).