The Ranger's Apprentice: Kids' Reads Even Some Grown Ups Can't Put Down

 The idea of reading what our kids are reading, well, it interests me, as I've already stated previously. 

Wandering through the stacks, looking for another series to read, and lo and behold ... The Ranger's Apprentice: The Ruins of Gorlan by John Flanagan.  Written as a story for his son, this series brings us back into the times of kings, knights who defend their kingdom and those who protect in secret. 

Will is a ward of the kingdom, a child left for reasons unknown to rely on the kindness of a generous king to raise along with others.  On choosing day, the fate of these wards is decided by those in authority.  Will wishes to be an apprentice at battleschool to become a knight, but he is overlooked because of his slight build, but not by everyone. 

He is chosen to be an apprentice to the Rangers, a group that is secretive and shrouded in mystery.  His gruff master takes to this youth, seeing his gifts of courage and speed.  Will's training will stretch his body to the limits and expand his mind as he learns how to be present and observe while blending in and not being seen.  The Ranger's life is not as glamorous as knights fighting for honor; their dangerous world behind the scenes allows the safety of the kingdom to continue.  

The adventures begin, continuing with Will's training as an archer and as a survivor in a world with allegiances between kind rulers and  evil in the form of bullies who want to rule by fear and power.  This adventure is never on a straight path, but always curving slightly into sub stories that add more to the plot, continuously moving it forward.

Flanagan weaves a fantasy tale that is mysterious and full of wonder without magic and spells of some fantasy worlds (not knocking them; I read them too!).  The theme of good versus evil is told through Will's growth from being alone to becoming a part of the whole.  Friendships develop as the characters mature and see that working together can make a difference.  The story line continues through Will's training and leads the series to its newest installment of The Emperor of Nihon-Ja, Book 10

Your reluctant reader may enjoy this series as much as those who devour their books.  As for me, I'm on the fifth book and it doesn't look like I'll be stopping anytime soon!  If your kids have read it (or you have read it when they've gone to sleep), post your opinion--everyone counts.  Just don't let me know what happens, okay?