John Flanagan, author of the Ranger's Apprentice series, dies aged 81

John Flanagan, author of books including Ranger’s Apprentice, Brotherband and Royal Ranger children’s books series, has died aged 81.

Born in Sydney in 1944, Flanagan showed an interest in writing and music from an early age. By the time he left college, he was a regular on the local folk scene with his band The New York Public Library.

He began his career in advertising and became a creative director before writing TV sitcoms for a time, and became an author when he developed the Ranger’s Apprentice series from a self-illustrated storybook he created for his son Michael.

According to a tribute published by Penguin Random House (PRH), Michael was small for his age and had been given the derogatory nickname ‘Flea’ by classmates. Wanting to show Michael that heroes come in all sizes, Flanagan created Will, the orphaned ward of Redmont; too small to be a knight, Will is selected instead for the prestigious Rangers (spy) Corps by a gruff but caring mentor, Halt.

Flanagan expanded the stories into the Ranger’s Apprentice series, the first book of which, The Ruins of Gorlan, became a bestseller on publication in 2006. The Ranger’s Apprentice series, along with its companion series Brotherband and The Royal Ranger, has received multiple awards and appeared regularly on the New York Times bestsellers list.

Flanagan also wrote three adult titles: the Jesse Parker thriller series and a nautical history novel, The Grey Raider. Flanagan’s combined sales figures for all titles amount to more than 20 million worldwide according to PRH, which said in a statement: “His work has had a lasting impact on a generation of readers and Penguin Young Readers is grateful to have had the joy and privilege of working with him for over 20 years.”

Jen Loja, president of Penguin Young Readers, said: “John Flanagan truly loved to write, a passion he credited to his early love of reading. His Ranger’s Apprentice series captured the imaginations of generations of readers, young and old, and continues to resonate 20 years later. He was a master at world-building and pacing. But what made his books special was the heart and humour of his characters. We are honoured to have been part of his publishing journey and to have helped connect his books with so many young readers.”

John is survived by his wife Leonie, daughters Penny and Katie, son Michael, and his adored four grandchildren.