This is the fourth book in the Ranger’s Apprentice series. Will and Evanlyn have escaped from the Skandians and are waiting for the snow to melt from the mountains so that they can make their way back to Araluen. In the meantime, Holt has angered the king so that he can be released from his duties and he and Horace are making their way to Skandia to try to rescue Will and Evanlyn. Unfortunately, complicating their escape and or rescue are the Temujai, fierce, mounted warriors who are invading Skandia. They want to conquer the country and then attack Araluen.
If you have never read any of the Ranger’s Apprentice books then you are in for a treat. Although, I do recommend reading them in order, you can read any one of them by itself and still enjoy the book. This one is full of battle and heroics. The maiden is saved and then she becomes a crucial link in the well-thought-out battle strategy to save Skandia. There is also a lot of amusing political philosophy from Holt as he skillfully negotiates with the Skandian leaders who would rather just wade into battle and start swinging rather than carefully consider strategies and options. It was a pleasure to read and had lots of battle strategy, combat, political intrigue, and heroism. You will love the characters.
Posted by: Fran W.
This new book stars a small rabbit with a big voice that starts a barnyard chorus line. Since rabbits don’t have a big noise, little rabbit tries out different animal sounds. While trying out the various barnyard sounds, other animals join in the fun. In the end, all the animals decide they like their own sound. But you’ll never guess what sound the little rabbit likes to make best. The adorable, expressive drawings make the book even more fun.
Adventure abounds when a boy, a bear cub, and a dog try to avoid authorities and survive in the mountains of Montana. Thirteen year old Josh’s complicated family situation pushes Josh to run away to save an orphaned bear cub from dying alone or being killed by governmental intervention.
I knew I was going to like this book, but it still surprised me with how good it was. Joe is adopted by a rich and famous Hollywood couple after his family is killed in a war. He is the poster child for many causes (usually ones his parents are interested in). He is given scripted lines to say at events to make him look funny and cute, but doesn’t really let him be himself.
The delightful illustrations in this wordless book take us through the Christmas season by highlighting the traditions of one family. The first page starts out with Christmas decorations appearing throughout the town’s shops and streets.
The first two books of this young James Bond Adventure series reveal to us the teenage title character, a student at Eton College, as a young man needing the thrill of danger in his life to not be bored and to feel really alive. So far, the books guarantee plenty of that danger and adventure, with this third one not disappointing.
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