Eragon

Eragon
by Christopher Paolini
Sycamore Public Library call number: Y FIC PAO
also available on disc: YCD FIC PAO
and in Spanish: SPANISH Y FIC PAO

Tell us about it: This book is about a farmer boy named Eragon who finds a mysterious blue stone in the forbidden mountains near his farm. Forced to flee from his village because of his new discovery, his only human companion an old storyteller, Eragon finds himself in the middle of a magical and dangerous plot.

Why did you pick it up? After the final book in the series launched, it seemed like a nice time to have a discussion about book 1.

• "This unusual, powerful tale, begun when Paolini was 15 (he's now 19) and self-published in 2002 before being picked up by Knopf, is the first book in the planned Inheritance trilogy. It's obvious that Paolini knows the genre well--his lush tale is full of recognizable fantasy elements and conventions. But the telling remains constantly fresh and fluid, and he has done a fine job of creating an appealing and convincing relationship between the youth and the dragon. It's an impressive start to a writing career that's sure to flourish."--Sally Estes, Booklist *Starred* Review
• "An authentic work of great talent ... I found myself dreaming about it at night, and reaching for it as soon as I woke."--Liz Rosenberg, The New York Times Book Review
• "[T]he empathetic characters and interesting plot twists will appeal to the legions of readers who have been captivated by the Lord of the Rings trilogy and are looking for more books like it."--Susan L. Rogers, School Library Journal

Would you recommend this? Why or why not? We would recommend this book for advanced readers and readers of fantasy.

Name: Teen Book Club
Age Group: Young Adult
Classification: Fiction
Awards: Rebecca Caudill Young Reader's Book Award (2006)
Young Reader's Choice Award (2006)

Rating: A
Other Comments: May your swords stay sharp.