Miller, Bobbi. Lost Prince, The. The Barbary Chronicles. Charlesbridge Moves, 10/2026. 213pp. Fiction. Trade $17.99. 978-1-62354-628-1. GRADES 4–7. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
As some of the least desirable residents of the Barbary Coast, Jack London and her friends are fighting to survive in late 1800’s San Francisco. See how lawless, dirty, convoluted, and difficult life can be for women and children, especially orphans on the streets, in this rough and tumble city. Jack, a girl, steals a watch from a “nob” (someone who does not belong there), who turns out to be one of the richest men in the city. Every plan Jack comes up with to return the watch and lay blame on one of the crime lords falls apart, creating more complications and problems – including finding an injured boy who turns out to be the rich man’s son. While the San Francisco place setting may draw Bay Area readers, the place descriptions are so very different that nothing seems recognizable ; it really could be anywhere. Fast-paced action mixes with bits of mystery, criminal elements, and a feel-good ending where the downtrodden folks win makes this an intriguing read. Jack reads as white. A fictionalized part of local San Francisco history that is different from the usual stories about the Gold Rush or 1906 earthquake. Includes California-specific content.
Joshua Rees—Daly City Public Library