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The Ruins of Gorlan
Book (2005)
The fantasy adventure that launched the international bestselling series, with over 5 million copies sold in the U.S. alone!
They have always scared him in the past—the Rangers, with their dark cloaks and shadowy ways. The villagers believe the Rangers practice magic that makes them invisible to ordinary people. And now 15-year-old Will, always small for his age, has been chosen as a Ranger’s apprentice. What he doesn’t yet realize is that the Rangers are the protectors of the kingdom. Highly trained in the skills of battle and surveillance, they fight the battles before the battles reach the people. And as Will is about to learn, there is a large battle brewing. The exiled Morgarath, Lord of the Mountains of Rain and Night, is gathering his forces for an attack on the kingdom. This time, he will not be denied. . . .
They have always scared him in the past—the Rangers, with their dark cloaks and shadowy ways. The villagers believe the Rangers practice magic that makes them invisible to ordinary people. And now 15-year-old Will, always small for his age, has been chosen as a Ranger’s apprentice. What he doesn’t yet realize is that the Rangers are the protectors of the kingdom. Highly trained in the skills of battle and surveillance, they fight the battles before the battles reach the people. And as Will is about to learn, there is a large battle brewing. The exiled Morgarath, Lord of the Mountains of Rain and Night, is gathering his forces for an attack on the kingdom. This time, he will not be denied. . . .
Here is the fantasy adventure that launched the Ranger's Apprentice series, an epic story of heroes and villains that has become an international phenomenon. Perfect for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, T.H. White’s The Sword in the Stone, Christopher Paolini’s Eragon series, and George R. R. Martin’s Game of Thrones / A Song of Ice and Fire series.
Book (2005)
The fantasy adventure that launched the international bestselling series, with over 5 million copies sold in the U.S. alone!
They have always scared him in the past—the Rangers, with their dark cloaks and shadowy ways. The villagers believe the Rangers practice magic that makes them invisible to ordinary people. And now 15-year-old Will, always small for his age, has been chosen as a Ranger’s apprentice. What he doesn’t yet realize is that the Rangers are the protectors of the kingdom. Highly trained in the skills of battle and surveillance, they fight the battles before the battles reach the people. And as Will is about to learn, there is a large battle brewing. The exiled Morgarath, Lord of the Mountains of Rain and Night, is gathering his forces for an attack on the kingdom. This time, he will not be denied. . . .
They have always scared him in the past—the Rangers, with their dark cloaks and shadowy ways. The villagers believe the Rangers practice magic that makes them invisible to ordinary people. And now 15-year-old Will, always small for his age, has been chosen as a Ranger’s apprentice. What he doesn’t yet realize is that the Rangers are the protectors of the kingdom. Highly trained in the skills of battle and surveillance, they fight the battles before the battles reach the people. And as Will is about to learn, there is a large battle brewing. The exiled Morgarath, Lord of the Mountains of Rain and Night, is gathering his forces for an attack on the kingdom. This time, he will not be denied. . . .
Here is the fantasy adventure that launched the Ranger's Apprentice series, an epic story of heroes and villains that has become an international phenomenon. Perfect for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, T.H. White’s The Sword in the Stone, Christopher Paolini’s Eragon series, and George R. R. Martin’s Game of Thrones / A Song of Ice and Fire series.
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Content at a glance
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Sex & Nudity
There is no sexual content or romantic themes in this book, as the story focuses entirely on friendship, mentorship, and adventure.
Violence & Gore
The story features fantasy-style combat involving swords, bows, and beasts, but the descriptions are non-graphic and standard for young adult fantasy.
Profanity
The language is clean and appropriate for middle-grade readers, with no instances of swearing or crude language.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
There are occasional, very brief mentions of characters visiting taverns where ale is served, which is standard for the medieval setting but not a focus of the story.
Frightening Scenes
The book contains some tense sequences involving forest creatures and suspenseful encounters with dark, magical threats that may be mildly scary for younger children.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
A young hero learns that true strength isn't just about size, but about the dedication and skills you gain to look out for your community.
Content Warnings
Fantasy violence
Military threats
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
The narrative centers on an impending war and introduces a villainous threat, implying moderate fantasy combat and tension appropriate for pre-teens.
What Kids Can Learn
Children gain perspective on personal growth through discipline and the value of quiet, behind-the-scenes service to society.
Key Topics Discussed
Mentorship
Conflict resolution
Self-discovery
Why Parents Might Like It
It provides a principled, character-driven alternative to darker fantasy tropes, focusing on the formation of character through tutelage.
Positives & learning
More filled segments mean stronger positive content or learning value.
Positive messages
Emphasizes the importance of diligent training, humility, and contributing to the common good through unconventional paths.
Role models
Protagonists exhibit stoicism, professional integrity, and the willingness to shoulder heavy responsibilities for the protection of others.
Representation
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Learning
Introduces concepts of vigilance, logical planning, and the value of vocational training in a fantasy setting.
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