Brotherband Chronicles #1: The Outcasts

<strong>Seafaring Excitement and Epic Battles!</strong><p> Experience heart-pounding high-seas adventure with a group of misfits who must prove their worth or risk death! </p><p> In the world of Skandia, 16-year-old boys are grouped together in &quot;brotherbands&quot; to train in warcraft, seamanship, and tactics. As the names get called out, Hal finds himself in the group of rejects — thieves, thugs, and weaklings — who must make the most of their strange skills to compete in a race against the other bands on the open sea. If they win, they will be accepted into Skandian society, but the icy waters make for a treacherous playing field, especially when the stakes are survival itself. Luckily, Hal gives his team one huge advantage that just might overcome their weaknesses: He's a masterful inventor and boat builder. </p><p> Full of unique and endearing characters, seafaring excitement and epic battles, the <i>Brotherband Chronicles</i> will entice those familiar with Ranger's Apprentice and new readers alike. Extending the fantasy world he created for that phenomenally successful series, John Flanagan introduces a whole new cast of compelling characters.</p>