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Rockin' Reads: The Outcasts

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The Outcasts 
By John Flanagan
Philomel Books, 2011. 434 p.

So I usually just write these reviews about newer books that have been published; however, there is a book that I just read and it was amazing. And we haven’t talked about it on this review blog before. And it is the perfect type of read for summer! So, here I am telling you about The Outcasts—book #1 in the Brotherband series by John Flanagan. This is the same setting for the Ranger’s Apprentice series—only this book takes place in Skandia.

Hal is part Skandian and part Araluen, which means he doesn’t totally fit in with the other Skandian teens. He is an outcast. When Hal and the rest of the Skandian boys join in the Brotherband training (the training that turns them into the great Skandian warriors that are known around this world), There are eight boys who do not fit in, so they become their own group (known as the Herons) with Hal elected as their leader. This book is fast-paced, full of the fun dialog and descriptions that the Ranger’s Apprentice books are known for and one adventure after another. Kids who enjoy reading for fun during the summer will totally enjoy this book—especially if they loved other books by Flanagan and have been hankering for another character like Will. This is a great summer Rockin’ Read to enjoy just because!
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