This week I thought I would tackle some series for middle grade readers. Parents (and kids) love a series. It takes a lot of stress out of selecting books when kids have a book in the offing which they know they will enjoy and will move their story forward. While none of the series I am profiling this week are new, they are ones that are tried and true and have many books that are already out. The drawback of the new series, which are fresh and shiny, is that they only have one or two volumes, so there is far less to draw from.
So this week get your kids into an established series and know that if they like it, they will have quite a few volumes ahead of them, so your work is done for a while. Put your feet up, eat some bon-bons, maybe actually read a book for yourself (gasp!)
Title: Ranger’s Apprentice
Author: John Flanagan
Target: Grades 4-8
Series: Yes
What this book is about:
Will is a ward of his kingdom, having been orphaned as a baby. When he turns fifteen, he must be chosen to apprentice in a particular field or end up working the farms around the castle. To his surprise, he is chosen by the Rangers, a group that seems to appear and disappear at will, their mission always a mystery. But a battle is brewing across the land, with the return of a fallen enemy, and the Rangers will play a key role in this confrontation. As Will learns the ways of the Rangers, will he be ready?
Why I love this book:
First off I have to say that my son looooooved the series, and he begged me to read this book. Thankfully, I listened to him, because I could immediately see why he liked it so much. This is a great story. Will is instantly a likable character and the pace of the book is great. The author does a wonderful job at building the suspense and excitement in many of the more climactic sequences.
The relationship between Will and Halt, his mentor and trainer, was complicated and supportive, with just enough mystery to keep you on guard. The relationship with Will and his friends, and other wards apprenticing throughout the kingdom was also well thought out. It is obvious these relationships will play out throughout the series and they are set up for some engaging interactions.
Who this book is for:
Great action book. Should appeal to most kids
Final thoughts:
As my son would say, “What took you so long to read this book?”
To see my all recommendations for great series, visit my website at www.onegreatbook.com
