Sid Fleischman's The Whipping Boy is generally praised for its engaging storytelling and historical charm. Readers commend its humor, adventurous plot, and rich character development. However, some criticize its pacing and find certain elements less realistic. Overall, it remains a beloved children's classic for both educational and entertainment value.

A reader who enjoys The Whipping Boy by Sid Fleischman likely appreciates adventurous historical fiction with themes of friendship and personal growth. Fans of Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory or Louis Sachar's Holes would enjoy the blend of humor, adventure, and moral lessons.

In The Whipping Boy by Sid Fleischman, Prince Brat and his servant Jemmy run away from the castle and encounter multiple adventures and dangers, including being captured by criminals. The themes of friendship, social class, and personal growth are explored as they navigate these challenges together. The novel includes physical punishment of children and mentions of animal betting and fights.

Adventurous / Playful / Humorous / Heartwarming / Fantastical

- The Whipping Boy was awarded the prestigious Newbery Medal in 1987, which is given annually to the most distinguished American children's book published in the previous year.
- Sid Fleischman, the author of The Whipping Boy, was also an accomplished magician, and his background in magic often influenced his engaging storytelling style.
- The book was adapted into a television film in 1994, offering a visual interpretation of the story’s adventurous and whimsical elements.

**Jemmy**  
The protagonist who serves as the prince's whipping boy in the castle. He is resourceful, quick-witted, and adapts to various challenges throughout the story.

**Prince Horace**  
The king’s only son, often referred to as Prince Brat, known for his mischievous and entitled behavior. His actions initiate much of the story's central conflict.

**Billy and Cutwater**  
Two antagonistic petty criminals who are greedy and use brute force. They attempt to exploit Jemmy and Prince Horace for ransom purposes.

Sid Fleischman

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read The Whipping Boy | SuperSummary

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Overview

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The Whipping Boy Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Whipping Boy Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

The Whipping Boy Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-8

The Whipping Boy Chapters 5-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-12

The Whipping Boy Chapters 9-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-16

The Whipping Boy Chapters 13-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-20

The Whipping Boy Chapters 17-20 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Whipping Boy Character Analysis

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Themes

The Whipping Boy Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Whipping Boy Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Whipping Boy Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Whipping Boy Essay Topics

The Whipping Boy Teaching Unit

Introduction

The Whipping Boy Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

The Whipping Boy Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

The Whipping Boy Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

The Whipping Boy Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

The Whipping Boy Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

The Whipping Boy Activities

Essay Questions

The Whipping Boy Essay Questions

Exam Questions

The Whipping Boy Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

The Whipping Boy Exam Answer Key

The Whipping Boy

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Who Should Read The Whipping Boy?

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Book Details