The Burning Bridge

August 1, 2006
Gr 5-9 -In the second volume in this series, apprentice Ranger Will becomes involved once again in the war against the evil Morgarath. When he joins what should be a simple envoy mission, he and his companions realize that they are the only ones who know the extent of Morgarath -s duplicity, and it -s up to them to save the kingdom. Will and his friend Horace, along with noblewoman-in-disguise Evanlyn, make a dangerous journey and discover that Wargals, Morgarath -s mindless warriors, are infiltrating their kingdom, and their brave actions at the -burning bridge - of the title lead to Will -s and Evanlyn -s capture and much room for sequels. Will -s initial doubts and learning process add reality to his character, but his exploits never achieve true immediacy. Background characters are generally flat, though touches of humor add spice to the narrative. Flanagan creates a well-realized picture of life on the trail and its hardships, but his battles and their resolution seem almost too easy. Fans of the first volume will enjoy this adventure, but readers new to the series may not share their excitement." -Beth L. Meister, Pleasant View Elementary School, Franklin, WI"

Copyright 2006 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

May 15, 2006
Gr. 5-8. First published in Australia, the excellent Ranger's Apprentice series began with " The Ruins of Gorlan" (2005). Now apprentice ranger Will and his friend Horace, a Battleschool apprentice, plunge into a desperate situation. While traveling on the frontier as their kingdom prepares for war, they discover a nearly completed bridge that will make possible a devastating sneak attack by the enemy. With the help of a young woman in disguise, they attempt to thwart the enemy's plans. Flanagan's clarity of vision extends from the many distinctive, sympathetic characters to the well-delineated plot. Even when alternating narratives show events on several fronts at once, the story is never confusing. The pace is swift, and action is often at the forefront, but elements of humor and nuances of emotion are apparent as well. From spying to attack by bestial Wargals to medieval combat, Will's vivid world will entice fantasy readers who are drawn by the lure of high adventure carried out by believable, down-to-earth heroes. (Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2006, American Library Association.)

July 1, 2006
In their war-threatened kingdom, Ranger apprentice Will discovers and foils an invasion plot, while Battleschool student Horace challenges their adversary, Morgarath, to single combat. Though the military strategy that forms much of the book--and its appeal--is naive and dampens credibility, younger fans of the series will be satisfied with the likable characters and their closely woven affections.

(Copyright 2006 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)