Review: Eragon

Author: Christopher Paolini
Release Date: April 2005
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Pages: 503
Series:  The Inheritance Cycle #1

Source: Bought
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Summary:  When young Eragon finds a polished blue stone in the forest, he thinks it is the lucky discovery of a poor farm boy; perhaps it will buy his adopted family meat for the winter. But when the stone brings a dragon hatchling, Eragon realizes he has stumbled upon a legacy nearly as old as the Empire itself. Overnight his simple life is shattered, and he is thrust into a perilous new world of inescapable destiny, magical forces, and powerful people. With only an ancient sword and the instruction of an old,mysterious, hermit storyteller for guidance, Eragon and the fledgling dragon must navigate the dangerous terrain and dark enemies of an Empire ruled by a Emperor whose evil and power knows no bounds. Can Eragon take up the mantle of the legendary Dragon Riders? The fate of the Empire may rest in his hands….

My Favorite Lines:

"First, let no one rule your mind or body. Take special care that your thoughts remain unfettered... . Give men your ear, but not your heart. Show respect for those in power, but don't follow them blindly. Judge with logic and reason, but comment not. Consider none your superior whatever their rank or station in life. Treat all fairly, or they will seek revenge. Be careful with your money. Hold fast to your beliefs and others will listen."

Why I Loved It:  It goes without saying, I'm a little behind on the Eragon craze. Alas, don't get too upset because after all I've taken a step in the right direction. The best part of the Christmas holidays is all that free time to read. I'm so happy to report that I've taken advantage of it.

Paolini did exactly what I wanted. The book was nothing like the movie (thankfully), and every part of the book was chock full of imaginative goodies. I didn't want to put it down. A good author will suck you into the book, paint a clear picture of the strange new land, and keep you there as long as possible. Paolini is such an author. What kills me is that he wrote that book at such a young age. I had to keep reminding myself of that because it blew my mind. He showed such skill that I rarely read in young author's books. I think his young age made Eragon more believable.

The book is Lord of the Rings in semi-modern language. Dragons, dwarfs, and elves OH MY! The tale of ancient worlds intertwined with magic and language brings an old soul sort of wisdom into the life of the reader. Throw in the hint of romance, a sprinkling of dry humor, and an evil man with maroon eyes, and you've got an incredible, must-read book.