The Ruins of Gorlan

 

The Ruins of Gorlan

John Flanagan

Meira.Elena

Ages: 10-14

Lexile: 920L

 

                In this first book in the The Ranger’s Apprentice series, John Flanagan builds a world of suspicion, history, and duty, where one boy’s journey to find himself isn’t so different from our own. Written with humor, engaging and dynamic characters, and cultures reminiscent of our own, The Ruins of Gorlan is a must read for all fantasy and historical fiction lovers!

                Young, orphan Will has dreamed of joining Redmont’s Battleschool and becoming a knight of Araluen. Instead, Will’s curiosity and penchant for mischief get him thrown into a mysterious new craft with a taciturn and sarcastic mentor. To make matters even more complicated, , the exiled Lord Morgarath, who dwells in the Mountains of Rain and Night, is preparing to attack Araluen and overthrow King Duncan. Taking place in the fictional, English-reminiscent Araluen, Will must learn to handle being ostracized for his “black magic” craft and protect his country from the power-hungry Morgarath, all at the age of fifteen. Could you do it?

                This book is humorous, well-written, and an easy read. I’d recommend it for anyone who enjoys tales of knights, heroic characters, and acceptance. Over the course of the entire series, Will and his companions grow from shy, ignorant children, into worldly and courageous adults.  With friends, family, an honest and endearing personality, and innocence yet untainted, you’ll fall in love with Will time and time again.

                John Flanagan has written twelve books in this series, along with two companion series the Brotherband Chronicles and The Royal Ranger.