Eldest Synopsis

Eduardo Rico Montiel

English

Eldest

This book is the continuation to "Eragon", and it was written by Christopher Paolini. The plot starts right off in the middle of action, with Eragon and the Varden chasing away the urgals that are left from the battle of Farther Dur. It is a very dynamic start, with a major character dying in the first six pages.

It continues with Eragon and Saphira traveling to Du Weldenvarden, a forest which is home to the elves, in order to meet "The Cripple Who Is Whole". Also known as Togira Iknonoka, he is a mysterious entity who contacted Eragon at the end of the previous book, and who said to have all the answers to his questions. He is accompanied by Orik the dwarf and Arya the elf, to whom he feels affection for, but is not corresponded.

Parallel to this, the book shows the story of Nasuada, who has assumed the leadership of the Varden, in her quest to run from the Empire to Surda (a little independent country).

Furthermore, it explores what has happened in Carvahall, Eragon's hometown, ever since he left. Roran returns from a nearby population only to discover that his town is being assailed by the king's army and the dangerous Ra'zac. Together with other townspeople he defends their home, and when all seems lost begin to retreat.

Eldest is a good book for those who like fantastic literature. The story is full of magic with elves and dragon confronting tyrant kings and enormous armies. While some characters die, it is fair enough to keep the book in its own realism: the fact that the land of Alagaлsia is in an ongoing war. The characters are well developed, and the settings are greatly described. On the downside is its close resemblance to other pieces of literature and fiction, such as The Lord of the Rings and Star Wars, making it seems as if it offered nothing new.

A book full of action as this one is sure to keep the reader entertained until the very end. That is, of course, if you are into fantasy and fiction. Otherwise it may seem as a complete waste of time which took various elements of other book to combine them into one. My recommendation goes to those who like this genre and who are willing to let a little bit of illusion into their lives.