Eragon

Author: Christopher Paolini

Reviewed by Kelvin Gunawan (2F)

When young farmer hunter Eragon (who, of course, grew up innocent of his heritage and destiny) finds a flawless, polished blue stone, he's at first unaware that it's a dragon's egg. It was in the charge of an Elven lady, who sent it towards safety, just before she was captured by a Shade.

The dragon egg chooses Eragon as its Rider, hatches, and they communicate telepathically. After Ra'zac (cowled dark riders) destroy Eragon's uncle's farm, he travels with Brom and his dragon Saphira in search of vengeance. Along the way, Brom trains him gradually in swordplay and in magic (are you surprised that he displays a talent for both?) and Saphira teaches him to be her Rider.

All in all, it's a bit like Star Wars meets Lord of the Rings, with shadings of Anne McCaffrey's Dragonriders of Pern. But that's alright, as the author builds his own world and story out of these familiar elements. I especially like the nagging, caring relationship that develops between boy and dragon, and I appreciate the young hero's values, and his concern about killing even the bad guys.

A good book for fantasy lovers!


Available in The Aroozoo Library:
Eldest (2nd book of Inheritance Trilogy)
Eragon (VCD)

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