Let me start by saying: I loved this book books. I still devoured them as a adult, even with all the cringe-worthy teenage boy pining (seriously, buddy, STOP). That said, if I’m being honest… this particular book 1 feels like a simplified Wheel of Time with dragons thrown in. The beginning sequences feel almost identical, but it does diverge later and become a story unto itself — and a story worth reading.
Saphira is such a legend. She’s got just the right balance of strength and immaturity plus brute strength. She’s a delight. Hands down, a legend. And Brom—complex, gruff, unforgettable. For me, Eragon himself is the weakest point — but protags are hard. I’ve never been the type to swoon for the Superman. Give me the everyday hero who has to work for every victory, not the untouchable guy. Which is why I’m 100% Team Rowan Stronghammer. That’s the Hawkeye/Iron Man/Batman energy right there—no superpowers, just grit.
Now, let’s talk about the movie. Just kidding! Let’s not. It was embarrassing. They did the book dirty. Which is why I’m ridiculously excited for the TV adaptation that’s supposedly in the works. If it actually happens, and if they do it right, it could be the thing my son and I spend our summer doing.
The whole Inheritance Cycle is a wild ride, and even though the first edition borrowed heavily from the greats, it still carved out its place in my heart. Bring on the TV series. Give me the depth, the grit, and please—for the love of dragons—do Saphira (and even the Ra'zac) justice this time.
