Eldest is Christopher Paolini’s sequel to the bestselling book, Eragon. In Eragon (Inheritance), we met the fifteen year-old protagonist Eragon and how he came across his dragon Saphira. Eragon grew up under his uncle’s guidance at a farm. He finds a beautiful egg, which turned out to be that of a dragon’s. This egg was hidden by Arya, an elven princess to protect it from the hands of the minions of the evil king, Galbatorix. (Sometimes, I really wonder how Fantasy writers derive the weird-sounding names of both protagonists and villains!) Arya, however, was imprisoned by the evil king.

The egg hatches and reveals the beautiful blue dragon Saphira. Because of this, he was forced to leave his village. He crosses paths with Brom, who seemed like an old derelict. Brom, however, is not who seems. He turns out to be a Dragon Rider whose dragon has died. He became Eragon’s mentor, teacher, and friend. Not long after he learns to fly atop Saphira. He then bonds with the rebel forces who are out to get Galbatorix. In the end, a battle was waged, Eragon rescues Princess Aria, and defeats the shade Durza even if he, himself, sustained some wounds. Eragon ends after that great battle, leaving readers wanting more information regarding what’s gonna happen next.

Eldest continues the story of Eragon and his dragon, Saphira against the evil ruler Galbatorix who has gained rule over the land of Alagaesia. Since Eragon is the last of the Dragon Riders, Algaesia needs him badly. Since he had a lot of spirit but lacked skills, Eragon went to Ellesmera, an elven city. Together with his dragon, Sapira, they learn about magic, warfare, as well as the ancient language. His teacher is Rider Oromis and the dragon Glaedr. (Again, I wonder where these weird names come from. heheh).

Roran, Eragon’s cousin, also has a side story. Since the village of Carvahall is under siege by Ra’zac, they need to escape through the mountains. Along the process, another war occurs between the forces of Galbatorix and Eragon and Roran’s. During Eragon’s battle with another powerful Rider named Murtagh, Eragon learns about his true lineage. He is the brother of Murtagh. Instead of taking the side of Murtagh and Galbatorix, he decides to protect his people.

Eldest has all the features of High Fantasy and more. Although it tends to be a little too formulaic, Paolini’s second novel exemplifies the importance of friendship, honor, and love. The plot line of Eldest draws heavily upon the works of JRR Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, Anne McCaffrey’s Dragonriders of Pern, and George Lucas’ Star Wars. If you’re looking for originality, you might not find it in this book. The character of Roran shone in this novel.

Eldest still has much to offer in terms of enjoyment, fun, and Fantasy! I, for one, am a big fan of Fantasy books and I can still enjoy this book.