Ranger's Apprentice by John Flanagan

We have really been enjoying this series lately. The first book starts with several orphans being chosen to train in different areas of the kingdom. It mostly follows Will, who becomes apprentice to the mysterious rangers (obviously). He quickly becomes involved in more than just training though.

One of my favorite things about it is that even though the books are part of a series, each book is able to stand on its own. They are not over-the-top funny, or high-action. Just a really good read. There are good characters and interesting story lines. And they have the perfect length for their reading level. I just really like these books. I heard they might be making a movie out of this, so now is a good time to read it (before the movie ruins it).

Reading Level: Grade 4 & up

The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch

This is one of my favorite children's books, and my kids love it also. It's a great twist on a "save the princess" type of story, with Robert Munsch's typical sense of humor. It's fairly short, so toddlers will enjoy it, and it has a princess a prince and a dragon. What's not to love about that?

The Brave Apprentice by P. W. Catanese

This is a story of a young boy who kills a troll and ends up having to help the whole kingdom. It is very "medieval-ish" with lords, kings, castles, keeps, etc. so it would be good if you were studying this time period. There are some interesting characters that keep it from being too formulaic. Not necessarily a "fun" book since there is drama, death, fighting, and peril.

Reading Level: Grade 5 & up