L’apprenti d’Araluen

We’re starting the book section again today, and I’m also going to begin talking about series, a topic I’ve been avoiding until now. Why? Because it gives me the opportunity to talk about a series I really enjoy: The Ranger’s Apprentice. The fact that the cover of the first book features a bow and arrows is what sealed my fate, but who does that bother?

Foreword

This multi-volume story belongs to the adventure fantasy genre (or fantasy adventure, if you prefer), where we follow the evolution of five orphans, starting from the moment they begin their training in their chosen field. We focus particularly on Will, who seems a bit different from the others. However, he ends up under the tutelage of Halt, a Ranger of the King. Rangers enjoy a nearly mythical reputation, keeping curious people at bay. Their mastery of camouflage, their expertise in close combat, and their skill in archery make them feared figures. While Will is initially suspicious and nervous about this new future, he eventually embraces it with all his being, a choice that will lead him down the path of a thousand adventures.

In general

As I mentioned in the introduction, I really enjoy this series. If I understand correctly, the author wrote it to encourage his son to read. Indeed, reading the various volumes of The Ranger’s Apprentice has been a delightful experience. The adventures are varied, the antagonists have different motivations, and it’s not one of those series where it feels like the books just keep passing by without time actually moving. The characters grow and evolve, which is a real bonus in my eyes. As for the setting, I love the reinterpretation of the world we know, presented in the world of Araluen.

In details:

The adventures are varied. Due to the nature of a Ranger’s role, they are often on the road. However, you can also find threats in almost confined spaces. The antagonists are sometimes rich, sometimes poor. They can act in groups or solo. Will is curious, which often leads him into trouble, but he is also ingenious. He’s not without fear or completely wise; his adventures start in his adolescence. He has flashes of genius but also makes mistakes, learns, and grows.

The other four orphans he grew up with will stay close and evolve as well, becoming allies when the time comes. As for the rest of the world, there are glimpses of Vikings, Mongols, Samurai, Bedouins, Arabs… The world is vast, and so is the world of The Ranger’s Apprentice. Finally, let’s talk about Halt. Halt is grumpy, dry, and sarcastic with a little bit of tenderness when you look hard enough. His tongue is as sharp as his daggers, and he doesn’t hesitate to use it. Oh, I almost forgot the horses! Rangers have very special mounts. Their horses are more than just riding partners; they are intelligent beings who know how to defend themselves. If you pay attention, you might even catch a master and his mount having a conversation.

Small personal note, I read the French versions and I have to admit I prefer the covers of the French edition to the original version.

Conclusion

So yes, The Ranger’s Apprentice is in my library. While it is primarily aimed at teenagers, there’s nothing stopping adults from reading it. After all, it’s never stopped me. Oh, one small note: there’s a bit of magic, but very little. Don’t expect a fully magical world or you might be disappointed.

Would you like a cookie made in Araluen to relax?