Back when I worked in a bookshop, I sold the Ranger’s Apprentice series by John Flanagan in bucket loads; I doubt anyone who has worked with children’s books retail in Australia would argue that this series seems to work. But other than to say “these books are really popular” or to dutifully merchandise them, I never took much more of an interest.
Fast forward a few years, and as far as I can tell they are still going strong, despite being up to book 10 or so in the series. So, having no spare time to fit in a physical reading of any of them, I acquired the audio book of the first one and gave it a go in my plentiful driving time.
I can now see why the Ranger’s Apprentice books are so popular.
There are more than enough Arthurian knights and castles and battles to satisfy the more avid fantasy readers, yet none of the magic that would normally turn off those who are not that way inclined. It is accessible fantasy. As a fantasy fan, I would even attempt to use The Ranger’s Apprentice series to subtly draw the non-believers in, show them what they’re missing out on.
John Flanagan’s writing is easy to read, without being simple. It’s descriptive, without being overwrought. Character and plot development move forward hand in hand so there is never a dull moment. If only I had the time to go right onto the next 9 books!
I also want to mention William Zappa’s reading as well. Maybe it was the relief of hearing an Australian production, with no grating accents or strange pronunciations, but this was a very enjoyable audiobook to listen to. Zappa’s voices were well executed and didn’t hit that level of ‘cartoon ridiculousness’ that many audiobooks do. I know that at some point I will listen to the rest of this series, because for me the characters are embodied by Zappa’s reading of them.
