The Outcasts

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY OCT 24, 2011

First in the Brotherband Chronicles, a companion series to the bestselling Ranger's Apprentice books, this nautical adventure from Flanagan takes place in the northern land of Skandia. The story concerns Hal Mikkelson, who's half Skandian and half well, it doesn't really matter. He's considered a half-breed, an "Araluen weasel," which means that he has to work twice as hard as others to gain respect. Having turned 16, Hal must join a brotherband, a group of boys whose entire future and, most importantly, their status as potential crewmembers and raiders on a wolfship is dependent on how well they compete against other brotherbands, both individually and as a team. Although he's brilliant, Hal is relegated to a group of castoffs and losers who look to him for leadership. Loosely modeled on Viking culture, the Skandians value courage, seamanship, and brute strength. This enjoyable, old-fashioned tale should have easy appeal for Flanagan's many fans, who are already invested in the world he's created. It features relatable though somewhat minimally developed characters, most of whom are clearly identified as either heroes or villains. Ages 10 up.