Book Review: The Rithmatist by Brandon Sanderson

Title: The Rithmatist
Series: Rithmatist #1
Author: Brandon Sanderson
Publisher: Tor Teen (May 13, 2013)
Genre: YA Fantasy

Format Read: Ebook
Length: Novel
Source: Purchased

More than anything, Joel wants to be a Rithmatist. Chosen by the Master in a mysterious inception ceremony, Rithmatists have the power to infuse life into two-dimensional figures known as Chalklings. Rithmatists are humanity’s only defense against the Wild Chalklings — merciless creatures that leave mangled corpses in their wake. 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 study 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.

Bestselling author Brandon Sanderson brings his unique brand of epic storytelling to the teen audience with an engrossing tale of danger and suspense—the first of a series. With his trademark skills in world-building, Sanderson has created a magic system that is so inventive and detailed that that readers who appreciate games of strategy and tactics just may want to bring Rithmatics to life in our world.

 

Teasers: A springwork owl sat on top of the clock, blinking occasionally, then nibbling at its talons as it waited for the hour to chime so that it could hoot. [8% of Kindle Edition. I want this clock, since I love owls.]

“I suspect that, with all of his attempts to divide the Rithmatists from the common folk, this will quite upset Professor Nalizar. A tragedy.” [20% of Kindle Edition. Love the sarcasm!]

“Honestly, you’re going to shrivel up and turn into a professor if you don’t watch yourself.” [73% of Kindle Edition. I had to laugh at this.] 

Review: Brandon Sanderson reveals a fascinating new magical system in his young adult fantasy novel The Rithmatist.

I am still wondering why I haven’t picked up a Sanderson novel before now. The magical world he creates is superb. The details of the unique magical systems and the Rithmatists who use it add credence to the world. I believed the magic could work, and like Joel, I wanted to be a Rithmatist too.

The storyline is complex, mysterious, and fast-paced. From prologue to the end, I felt like I was holding my breath and wondering what would happen next. I loved the character Joel and how he represents all who dream of something more and work hard to accomplish their dreams. Melody is a great foil to Joel, and I felt like her character grew the most in the book. Nalizar reminded me a bit of Severus Snape. I never quite knew where Nalizar stood. I love how the end surprised me.

I highly recommend The Rithmatist by Brandon Sanderson and can’t wait until book two comes out! It’s by far my favorite book I’ve read so far this year. I also look forward to reading more by the author.

 

Five Bookworms = I loved it!