Ranger’s Apprentice, Book Five: The Sorcerer of the North

by: John Flanagan

Published by: Philomel Books/division of Penguin Young Readers Group-November release

Reviewed by Mark M. Owen, Ph.D.

John Flanagan’s fifth installment of the Ranger’s Apprentice series, The Sorcerer of the North, is as compelling and rewarding as the previous entries. Truth be told, I was hooked long ago when my son introduced me to the first book, and the latest installment is just as good.

This novel opens with young Will getting his first appointment as an official ranger to a small fiefdom to the south. Will is finally wearing the silver oak leaves, the insignia of a full-fledged ranger. At first, the solitary assignment appears to be a safe one, but adventure and excitement quickly find Will, and he is forced to come up with intriguing solutions to grave challenges to save himself and the townspeople. Along the way he befriends a smart border collie that becomes his faithful companion for the rest of the novel.

As soon as it looks like he might be able to settle in to a just reward, Will is given a secret assignment by the Ranger Corps to head far to the north, where rumors of sorcery abound. Lord Syron of Castle Macindaw has taken ill and the governance has fallen to the lord’s quarrelling sons. The castle is of strategic importance because it guards the northern border of the kingdom from the marauding Scotti.

The new assignment has Will traveling undercover as a minstrel, enabling him to mingle among the plain folks, gathering information about the mysterious sorcerer. The plot has some interesting twists as all is not as it seems. Familiar friends, Halt, Alyss and even Horace get involved in the fray.

Flanagan’s fans are sure to be pleased, but even a newcomer could pick up this book and be immediately engrossed in fast-moving storyline.

Armchair Interviews says: Thoroughly enjoyable–for young adults and other ages as well!

Author’s Web site: http://www.RangersApprentice.com