"The Whipping Boy" is a children's novel by Sid Fleischman that tells the story of a young prince named Jemmy and his whipping boy, a commoner who is punished for the prince's misdeeds. The two boys embark on an adventure when they are kidnapped by two outlaws, leading them to learn about friendship and bravery. Throughout their journey, Jemmy and the prince face various challenges that test their character. The story explores themes of loyalty, social class, and the importance of standing up for oneself, making it a compelling read for young audiences.