How Many Ranger's Apprentice Books Are There? And Why Do They Keep Multiplying Like Rabbits?

blog 2025-01-20 0Browse 0
How Many Ranger's Apprentice Books Are There? And Why Do They Keep Multiplying Like Rabbits?

The Ranger’s Apprentice series, penned by the talented John Flanagan, has captivated readers worldwide with its thrilling adventures, rich world-building, and unforgettable characters. But one question that often arises among fans and newcomers alike is: How many Ranger’s Apprentice books are there? The answer, as it turns out, is not as straightforward as one might think. The series has expanded over the years, spawning spin-offs, prequels, and even a companion series. Let’s dive into the details and explore why this series feels like it’s growing faster than a horde of Skandian raiders.


The Core Series: A Solid Foundation

The Ranger’s Apprentice series began in 2004 with the publication of The Ruins of Gorlan. This book introduced readers to Will, a young orphan who becomes the apprentice to Halt, a mysterious and skilled Ranger. The core series consists of 12 books, each building on the last to create a cohesive and engaging narrative. Here’s a quick rundown of the main titles:

  1. The Ruins of Gorlan (2004)
  2. The Burning Bridge (2005)
  3. The Icebound Land (2005)
  4. The Battle for Skandia (2006)
  5. The Sorcerer of the North (2006)
  6. The Siege of Macindaw (2007)
  7. Erak’s Ransom (2007)
  8. The Kings of Clonmel (2008)
  9. Halt’s Peril (2009)
  10. The Emperor of Nihon-Ja (2010)
  11. The Lost Stories (2011)
  12. The Royal Ranger (2013)

These books follow Will’s journey from a timid boy to a confident and capable Ranger, while also exploring the lives of his friends, including Horace, Alyss, and Evanlyn. The series is known for its blend of action, humor, and heartfelt moments, making it a favorite among readers of all ages.


The Spin-Offs: Expanding the Universe

Just when you thought the story was complete, John Flanagan decided to expand the Ranger’s Apprentice universe with spin-offs and companion series. These additions provide deeper insights into the world of Araluen and its inhabitants, offering fans even more to love.

The Brotherband Chronicles

Set in the same world as Ranger’s Apprentice, The Brotherband Chronicles focuses on the Skandians, a seafaring people known for their bravery and love of adventure. The series follows Hal Mikkelson, a young Skandian who forms a brotherband (a group of warriors) to prove his worth. As of now, there are 9 books in this series:

  1. The Outcasts (2011)
  2. The Invaders (2012)
  3. The Hunters (2012)
  4. Slaves of Socorro (2014)
  5. Scorpion Mountain (2014)
  6. The Ghostfaces (2016)
  7. The Caldera (2017)
  8. Return of the Temujai (2019)
  9. The Stern Chase (2022)

The Royal Ranger Series

After the conclusion of the original Ranger’s Apprentice series, Flanagan introduced a new arc with The Royal Ranger. This series follows Will as he takes on a new apprentice, Maddie, the daughter of Princess Cassandra and Horace. So far, there are 4 books in this series:

  1. The Royal Ranger: A New Beginning (2013)
  2. The Red Fox Clan (2018)
  3. Duel at Araluen (2019)
  4. The Missing Prince (2021)

The Prequels and Companion Books

In addition to the main series and spin-offs, Flanagan has also released prequels and companion books that delve into the backstories of key characters and provide additional context for the world of Araluen.

The Early Years Series

This prequel series explores the early days of Halt’s career as a Ranger and his relationship with Crowley, the Ranger Commandant. As of now, there are 2 books:

  1. The Tournament at Gorlan (2015)
  2. The Battle of Hackham Heath (2016)

The Lost Stories

This companion book, technically part of the core series, is a collection of short stories that fill in gaps and answer lingering questions from the main narrative. It’s a must-read for fans who want to know more about their favorite characters.


Why Does the Series Keep Growing?

The Ranger’s Apprentice universe continues to expand for several reasons:

  1. Fan Demand: Readers simply can’t get enough of Araluen and its inhabitants. The series has a dedicated fanbase that eagerly awaits each new installment.
  2. Rich World-Building: Flanagan has created a detailed and immersive world that lends itself to endless storytelling possibilities.
  3. Character Development: The characters are so well-developed that fans want to see more of their journeys, even after the main storylines have concluded.
  4. Creative Freedom: Spin-offs and prequels allow Flanagan to explore new perspectives and settings without being constrained by the original narrative.

  1. What is the best order to read the Ranger’s Apprentice series?
    It’s recommended to start with the core series (The Ruins of Gorlan to The Royal Ranger), then move on to The Brotherband Chronicles and The Early Years series. The Lost Stories can be read after the core series.

  2. Will there be more Ranger’s Apprentice books?
    John Flanagan has hinted at the possibility of future books, so fans should keep an eye out for announcements.

  3. Are the Ranger’s Apprentice books suitable for all ages?
    Yes, the series is generally considered appropriate for readers aged 10 and up, though younger readers may need some guidance with the more complex themes.

  4. How does The Brotherband Chronicles connect to Ranger’s Apprentice?
    While the two series share the same world, The Brotherband Chronicles focuses on Skandian characters and can be enjoyed independently of the main series.

  5. Who is the most popular character in the series?
    Halt, the enigmatic and skilled Ranger, is a fan favorite due to his wit, wisdom, and mysterious past.


In conclusion, the Ranger’s Apprentice series is a sprawling and ever-expanding universe that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, there’s always more to discover in the world of Araluen. So, how many Ranger’s Apprentice books are there? The answer is: more than you might expect, and likely even more to come!

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