The Royal Ranger (Ranger's Apprentice )
Taking place at least 16 years after the original 10 volumes of the Ranger’s Apprentice series, this sequel sees Will training 15-year-old Maddie, the first girl to become a ranger’s apprentice. Though accustomed to a life of privilege, she learns to set aside her old ways in order to develop her skills, her wits, and her courage. Meanwhile, Will struggles with troubles of his own. Series fans will hang on every word of this adventure; Maddie emerges as a strong character and could easily develop a following among readers who enjoy Tamora Pierce’s books about Alanna, another resourceful, independent-minded heroine. Grades 5-8. --Carolyn Phelan