Brotherband #1: The Outcasts

John Flanagan, author of the international phenomenon Ranger's Apprentice, creates a world of seafaring adventures, treacherous pirates and epic battles in Brotherband.  In Skandia, there is only one way to become a warrior. Boys are chosen for teams called brotherbands and must endure three months of gruelling training in seamanship, weapons and battle tactics. It's brotherband against brotherband, fighting it out in a series of challenges. There can be only one winner.When Hal Mikkelson finds himself the unwilling leader of a brotherband made up of outcasts, he must step up to the challenge. The Heron brotherband might not have the strength and numbers of the other two teams, but with inventiveness, ingenuity and courage on their side, they might just surprise everyone. "Having sold millions of his Ranger's Apprentice books all over the world, John Flanagan now has a new series on offer and it is just as swashbuckling and adventurous as his last. Brotherband is set in Skandia - a cold, Viking-inspired country that many of his Rangers' fans know well, but this time with new characters who are just as intriguing."  Deborah Abela, ABC Radio Canberra Drive Show with Louise Maher"This is an addictive and satisfying read for 10 to 16 year olds."  Weekend Australian"A rattling good story . . . Brotherband will engage and delight readers as much as the Ranger's Apprentice series does . . . John Flanagan has cleverly reinvigorated his world with this satisfying novel and its engaging central character."  Jo Goodman, Magpies"Flip open this book and set sail on an adventure with Hal, Stig and friends . . . It's action to the max!"  Mania"Full of boyish adventurism and specked with life lessons, this charming book will appeal to teenagers or anyone with a love of adventure."  Meldi Arkinstall, Daily Telegraph