The Rithmatist (The Rithmatist #1)
Brandon Sanderson
More than anything, Joel wants to be a Rithmatist. Rithmatists have the power to infuse life into two-dimensional figures known as Chalklings. Rithmatists are humanity’s only defense against the Wild Chalklings. Having nearly overrun the territory of Nebrask, the Wild Chalklings now threaten all of the American Isles. As the son of a lowly chalkmaker at Armedius Academy, Joel can only watch as Rithmatist students learn the magical art that he would do anything to practice. Then students start disappearing—kidnapped from their rooms at night, leaving trails of blood. Assigned to help the professor who is investigating the crimes, Joel and his friend Melody find themselves on the trail of an unexpected discovery—one that will change Rithmatics—and their world—forever.
No posts yet
Kick off the convo with a theory, question, musing, or update
Your rating:
So I end up really enjoying this book - the magic system seemed kinda dull to me (and it is) but Sanderson’s writing made it exciting and full of depth. I kinda hated the main character but again, Sanderson’s writing also made me love him at the same time. I’d say Joel is bit too similar to the Reckoner’s David (very similar YA-ish protagonist by Sanderson) but they were used differently so I can’t complain. That being said, I kinda hate the idea that a 16 year old who is interested in a thing can figure out stuff world leading academics can’t - I call bull on that. The world Sanderson built was fascinating, and I kinda hope that if he ever figures out the sequel, he will focus on the history and steampunk-esque technology as opposed to the chalk based fighting system. Honestly, I kinda wish he had ripped off FullMetal Alchemist more, the system just need that little something extra imho. I do hope Sanderson continues this series however, but I do feel like it’s the black sheep of his work.
0