Junior high students aren't the only ones who enjoy them. One of our great special ed teachers told me how much she has enjoyed the series and that she just can't put them down. There are now eight of these books published in the U.S. with at least two more to be released in the next few years. The series is sold in about eighteen countries. John Flanagan, the Australian author, first wrote the books as short stories to show his son that reading could be enjoyable and that heroes are not always big, strong men.
The series focuses on Will who becomes an apprentice to Halt, a Ranger. He and Halt work for the kingdom of Araluen. They have different adventures while trying to keep the kingdom save. Rangers focus on blending with the environment, learning certain weapons such as the long bow, and working as spies for the kingdom. Will's friends, who were also orphans under the care of Baron Arald, are also a part of the series. Horace, formally a rival of Will, becomes a battleschool apprentice. Alyss is in the diplomatic core and is in love with Will. Jenny is apprenticed to the master chef, and George is in scribe school.
If this sounds like the series for you or if you are already a fan, check out the author's website, the U.S. publisher's website, and this movie insider site which claims a movie about the first book will open next year.
What a cool idea! Students can post what they liked or disliked about a book. Maybe post their thoughts on a favorite book? Professional looking webpage! DM
ReplyDelete