John Flanagan is a name synonymous with adventure, compelling characters, and captivating storytelling in the realm of young adult literature. As the author behind the globally acclaimed Ranger’s Apprentice and Brotherband Chronicles series, Flanagan has enchanted millions of readers worldwide. This exploration delves into the mind of John Flanagan Author, uncovering his journey to becoming a writer, his creative process, and the inspirations that fuel his beloved books.
From Advertising to Adventure: The Genesis of a Writer
Flanagan’s path to authorship wasn’t a straight line. While his passion for writing ignited in fifth grade, nurtured by a love for reading, his professional career initially took a different turn. He embarked on a career in advertising, starting with the rather monotonous task of compiling research results. However, his talent soon shone through, and he transitioned into copywriting, honing his skills in crafting engaging narratives for various media, including television and corporate communications. This diverse writing experience laid a crucial foundation for his later success as a novelist.
The shift from advertising to fiction wasn’t a deliberate targeting of the middle-grade market. Flanagan simply began writing stories he enjoyed, initially believing they were geared towards adults. It was his agent who recognized the appeal of these narratives for younger readers, a fortunate insight that proved remarkably accurate. Perhaps the genuine connection Flanagan’s books have with young audiences stems from his authentic voice, never condescending, always respectful of their intelligence and imagination.
The Writing Life: Process and Inspirations
Flanagan’s writing routine is remarkably disciplined and consistent. He adheres to a weekday schedule, dedicating the hours between 10 am and 1 pm to writing, with the goal of completing a chapter each day. This structured approach underscores his professional background and commitment to his craft. Interestingly, he doesn’t subscribe to any elaborate rituals, emphasizing a straightforward, work-oriented approach to writing.
The genesis of the Ranger’s Apprentice series is a heartwarming tale rooted in fatherly motivation. Created initially as twenty short stories to engage his twelve-year-old son, Mike, in reading, the series emerged from a blend of Flanagan’s personal interests and his son’s. Drawing upon his lifelong fascination with medieval settings and Mike’s enthusiasm for archery, he crafted a world and characters that resonated deeply. The Rangers themselves are inspired by the Texas Rangers, envisioned as a small, elite group wielding influence far beyond their numbers, adding a layer of grounded realism to the fantasy setting.
John Flanagan's Ranger's Apprentice: "The Lost Stories" book cover
The Ranger’s Apprentice series, though initially concluded, saw a return with The Lost Stories. Flanagan explains this decision as a response to reader inquiries and a desire to tie up loose ends, addressing questions that lingered after the original series conclusion. He also reveals that a final book, set fifteen years after the main series, was always part of his long-term plan, indicating a meticulously planned and thoughtfully constructed narrative universe. This dedication to his readers and his world is a testament to his commitment to delivering satisfying and complete stories.
Expanding the Flanagan Universe: Brotherband Chronicles
The inspiration for the Brotherband Chronicles arose from Flanagan’s enduring fascination with ships, sailing, and the Skandian characters introduced in Ranger’s Apprentice. Recognizing the impending conclusion of the Ranger’s Apprentice saga, he began developing the Brotherband concept, focusing on a protagonist grappling with a sense of being an outsider due to his mixed Araluen and Skandian heritage. This theme of overcoming social challenges and embracing one’s identity is a recurring motif in Flanagan’s work, often resonating deeply with his young readership.
Flanagan’s books are known for their rapid release schedule, a testament to his efficient writing process. He typically spends approximately two months planning a book, followed by three months of writing. His initial advantage of having the first four Ranger’s Apprentice books already completed upon publication allowed for a strong start. However, he humorously mentions the pressure from publishers to maintain this pace, acknowledging the demands of the publishing industry while maintaining his productive output.
When asked about favorite characters, Flanagan playfully deflects, often turning the question back to his young readers. However, he admits a fondness for Tug, Horace, and a somewhat inexplicable lack of affection for George, showcasing a humorous and self-aware approach to his creations. This engaging interaction with his characters, even in jest, highlights the depth of his involvement in their world.
The Rewards of Storytelling
Flanagan views the creation of large story arcs not as challenges, but as rewarding endeavors. He expresses genuine joy in the control he wields over characters, events, and even the fictional history he crafts. For him, writing is a “wonderful mind game,” a source of immense personal satisfaction. The ultimate highlights, he shares, are typing “THE END” on a manuscript and, perhaps even more importantly, meeting the young readers during book tours, experiencing firsthand the impact of his stories.
Reflecting on his writing journey, Flanagan acknowledges the evolution of his craft, stating simply, “Well, it’s got better, thank God.” He emphasizes the importance of practice and honing one’s talent, viewing writing as a skill that improves with dedication and effort. This humble acknowledgment of continuous improvement resonates with aspiring writers and underscores his commitment to his profession.
The overwhelming success of his books remains a constant surprise and delight to Flanagan. As a devoted reader himself in his youth, he devoured countless books, citing the Horatio Hornblower novels by C.S. Forester as particularly influential. This lifelong love of reading and storytelling has clearly come full circle, with John Flanagan author now inspiring a new generation of readers with his own thrilling tales of adventure and camaraderie.
