The Prince and the Pauper

In this timeless tale of adventure and social satire, Mark Twain tells the story of two boys who trade lives and discover the stark realities of each other’s worlds. Set in 16th-century England, The Prince and the Pauper follows Edward Tudor, the young Prince of Wales, and Tom Canty, a poor boy from London’s slums, who are identical in appearance. By a twist of fate, the boys meet and decide to switch clothes as a playful experiment. However, their game turns serious when they are mistaken for each other. Edward is cast into the harsh world of poverty, where he witnesses the struggles of commoners, while Tom is thrust into the opulence and pressures of royal life. As they navigate their swapped identities, both boys gain insight into justice, privilege, and the human condition. With Twain’s signature wit and social commentary, The Prince and the Pauper explores class inequality, identity, and empathy. Combining humor, adventure, and historical detail, this novel remains a beloved classic that appeals to readers of all ages. (autogenerated description and original book cover)