Amazon.com
Readers beware. The brilliant, breathtaking conclusion to J.K. Rowling's spellbinding series is not for the faint of heart--such revelations, battles, and betrayals await in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows that no fan will make it to the end unscathed. Luckily, Rowling has prepped loyal readers for the end of her series by doling out increasingly dark and dangerous tales of magic and mystery, shot through with lessons about honor and contempt, love and loss, and right and wrong. Fear not, you will find no spoilers in our review--to tell the plot would ruin the journey, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is an odyssey the likes of which Rowling's fans have not yet seen, and are not likely to forget. But we would be remiss if we did not offer one small suggestion before you embark on your final adventure with Harry--bring plenty of tissues.
The heart of Book 7 is a hero's mission--not just in Harry's quest for the Horcruxes, but in his journey from boy to man--and Harry faces more danger than that found in all six books combined, from the direct threat of the Death Eaters and you-know-who, to the subtle perils of losing faith in himself. Attentive readers would do well to remember Dumbledore's warning about making the choice between "what is right and what is easy," and know that Rowling applies the same difficult principle to the conclusion of her series. While fans will find the answers to hotly speculated questions about Dumbledore, Snape, and you-know-who, it is a testament to Rowling's skill as a storyteller that even the most astute and careful reader will be taken by surprise.
A spectacular finish to a phenomenal series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is a bittersweet read for fans. The journey is hard, filled with events both tragic and triumphant, the battlefield littered with the bodies of the dearest and despised, but the final chapter is as brilliant and blinding as a phoenix's flame, and fans and skeptics alike will emerge from the confines of the story with full but heavy hearts, giddy and grateful for the experience. --Daphne Durham
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Begin at the Beginning
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Hardcover
Paperback |
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Hardcover
Paperback |
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Hardcover
Paperback |
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Hardcover
Paperback |
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Hardcover
Paperback |
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Hardcover
Paperback |
Why We Love Harry
Favorite Moments from the Series
There are plenty of reasons to love Rowling's wildly popular series--no doubt you have several dozen of your own. Our list features favorite moments, characters, and artifacts from the first five books. Keep in mind that this list is by no means exhaustive (what we love about Harry could fill ten books!) and does not include any of the spectacular revelatory moments that would spoil the books for those (few) who have not read them. Enjoy.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
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* Harry's first trip to the zoo with the Dursleys, when a boa constrictor winks at him.
* When the Dursleys' house is suddenly besieged by letters for Harry from Hogwarts. Readers learn how much the Dursleys have been keeping from Harry. Rowling does a wonderful job in displaying the lengths to which Uncle Vernon will go to deny that magic exists.
* Harry's first visit to Diagon Alley with Hagrid. Full of curiosities and rich with magic and marvel, Harry's first trip includes a trip to Gringotts and Ollivanders, where Harry gets his wand (holly and phoenix feather) and discovers yet another connection to He-Who-Must-No-Be-Named. This moment is the reader's first full introduction to Rowling's world of witchcraft and wizards.
* Harry's experience with the Sorting Hat. |
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
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* The de-gnoming of the Weasleys' garden. Harry discovers that even wizards have chores--gnomes must be grabbed (ignoring angry protests "Gerroff me! Gerroff me!"), swung about (to make them too dizzy to come back), and tossed out of the garden--this delightful scene highlights Rowling's clever and witty genius.
* Harry's first experience with a Howler, sent to Ron by his mother.
* The Dueling Club battle between Harry and Malfoy. Gilderoy Lockhart starts the Dueling Club to help students practice spells on each other, but he is not prepared for the intensity of the animosity between Harry and Draco. Since they are still young, their minibattle is innocent enough, including tickling and dancing charms. |
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
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* Ron's attempt to use a telephone to call Harry at the Dursleys'.
* Harry's first encounter with a Dementor on the train (and just about any other encounter with Dementors). Harry's brush with the Dementors is terrifying and prepares Potter fans for a darker, scarier book.
* Harry, Ron, and Hermione's behavior in Professor Trelawney's Divination class. Some of the best moments in Rowling's books occur when she reminds us that the wizards-in-training at Hogwarts are, after all, just children. Clearly, even at a school of witchcraft and wizardry, classes can be boring and seem pointless to children.
* The Boggart lesson in Professor Lupin's classroom.
* Harry, Ron, and Hermione's knock-down confrontation with Snape. |
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
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* Hermione's disgust at the reception for the veela (Bulgarian National Team Mascots) at the Quidditch World Cup. Rowling's fourth book addresses issues about growing up--the dynamic between the boys and girls at Hogwarts starts to change. Nowhere is this more plain than the hilarious scene in which magical cheerleaders nearly convince Harry and Ron to jump from the stands to impress them.
* Viktor Krum's crush on Hermione--and Ron's objection to it.
* Malfoy's "Potter Stinks" badge.
* Hermione's creation of S.P.E.W., the intolerant bigotry of the Death Eaters, and the danger of the Triwizard Tournament. Add in the changing dynamics between girls and boys at Hogwarts, and suddenly Rowling's fourth book has a weight and seriousness not as present in early books in the series. Candy and tickle spells are left behind as the students tackle darker, more serious issues and take on larger responsibilities, including the knowledge of illegal curses. |
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
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* Harry's outburst to his friends at No. 12 Grimmauld Place. A combination of frustration over being kept in the dark and fear that he will be expelled fuels much of Harry's anger, and it all comes out at once, directly aimed at Ron and Hermione. Rowling perfectly portrays Harry's frustration at being too old to shirk responsibility, but too young to be accepted as part of the fight that he knows is coming.
* Harry's detention with Professor Umbridge. Rowling shows her darker side, leading readers to believe that Hogwarts is no longer a safe haven for young wizards. Dolores represents a bureaucratic tyrant capable of real evil, and Harry is forced to endure their private battle of wills alone.
* Harry and Cho's painfully awkward interactions. Rowling clearly remembers what it was like to be a teenager.
* Harry's Occlumency lessons with Snape.
* Dumbledore's confession to Harry. |
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
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* The introduction of the Horcrux.
* Molly Weasley asking Arthur Weasley about his "dearest ambition." Rowling has always been great at revealing little intriguing bits about her characters at a time, and Arthur's answer "to find out how airplanes stay up" reminds us about his obsession with Muggles.
* Harry's private lessons with Dumbledore, and more time spent with the fascinating and dangerous pensieve, arguably one of Rowling's most ingenious inventions.
* Fred and George Weasley's Joke Shop, and the slogan: "Why Are You Worrying About You-Know-Who? You Should Be Worrying About U-NO-POO--the Constipation Sensation That's Gripping the Nation!"
* Luna's Quidditch commentary. Rowling created scores of Luna Lovegood fans with hilarious and bizarre commentary from the most unlikely Quidditch commentator.
* The effects of Felix Felicis. |
Magic, Mystery, and Mayhem: A Conversation with J.K. Rowling
"I am an extraordinarily lucky person, doing what I love best in the world. I'm sure that I will always be a writer. It was wonderful enough just to be published. The greatest reward is the enthusiasm of the readers." --J.K. Rowling
Find out more about Harry's creator in our exclusive interview with J.K. Rowling.
Did You Know?
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The Little White Horse was J.K. Rowling's favorite book as a child. |
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Jane Austen is Rowling's favorite author. |
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Roddy Doyle is Rowling's favorite living writer. |
A Few Words from Mary GrandPré
"When I illustrate a cover or a book, I draw upon what the author tells me; that's how I see my responsibility as an illustrator. J.K. Rowling is very descriptive in her writing--she gives an illustrator a lot to work with. Each story is packed full of rich visual descriptions of the atmosphere, the mood, the setting, and all the different creatures and people. She makes it easy for me. The images just develop as I sketch and retrace until it feels right and matches her vision." Check out more Harry Potter art from illustrator Mary GrandPré.
Customer Reviews:
Harry's Farewell.......2007-10-11
The world will surely miss Harry Potter.
As usual, beautifully written.
Shocking revelations.
I loved the ending... though maybe some people won't like it.. though honestly, who cares if you don't.
THIS IS THE LAST BOOK OF THE SERIES.. IF YOU DON'T BUY THIS, THEN YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE BOUGHT ALL THE OTHER HP BOOKS... duh!
kidding aside.. buy this because its (1) a great and grand book.
It's one of my favorites in the series.
(2) You have to support J.K. Rowling, if only to keep her writing more.
(3) For your collection
(4) BUY THIS OR LOSE OUT.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.......2007-10-11
This was my favorite book of the series, too bad that it has ended. I hope J.K. Rowling writes other books soon...I'm in need of something to read.
As expected.......2007-10-10
AS everyone knows by now, the last book was pretty much a repeat of previous themes, style and timing. This book perhaps meandered more in the telling of the tale, as the characters also wandered around lost for a period. The most interesting thing is the appearance of christian themes, particularly about dying and resurrection. Previous books very carefully avoided religion. But when fighting the ultimate evil, well...
Fabulous Book.......2007-10-10
As always, JK Rowling has done an amazing job with this book. It's a shame the series has ended.
Great Ending for the Harry Potter Books.......2007-10-10
I really enjoyed this book. I am not sure how she would end the series but I think that she did it perfectly.
Book Description
A sensational addition to the Dresden Files adventures-from a USA Today bestselling author.
Professional wizard Harry Dresden is investigating a series of deaths in Chicago. Someone is killing practitioners of magic, those incapable of becoming full-fledged wizards. Shockingly, all the evidence points to Harry's half-brother, Thomas, as the murderer. Determined to clear his sibling's name, Harry uncovers a conspiracy within the White Council of Wizards that threatens not only him, but his nearest and dearest, too...
Customer Reviews:
Best yet.......2007-10-08
Any series featuring a single main character runs a risk of getting stale, following a formula. I'm delighted to say that has not only NOT happened with White Knight, it's the best book yet.
Harry Dresden grows emotionally. His relationships with his brother and Murphy change and develop in both heartbreaking and heartwarming ways. And the main plot gets more exciting and more engrossing in each book, something that rarely occurs. My only complaint (as usual) is that it will be so long before the next book!
Great as always!.......2007-09-22
Jim does it again! Harry Dresden continues to grow and evolve as a character. Fast paced and I couldn't put it down!
Dead or Disappeared.......2007-09-21
White Night (2007) is the ninth Urban Fantasy novel in the Dresden Files series, following Proven Guilty. In the previous volume, Harry fetched Molly Carpenter back from Arctis Tor, with a little help from his friends. He took her back to her family, but she decided to turn herself in to the White Council for violations of the Fourth Law.
At the trial, the Merlin arbitrarily convicted her of using black magic and sentenced her to death. Harry pointed out that the Gatekeeper hadn't yet cast his vote. Then Ebenezar McCoy arrived with survivors of the Warden training group accompanied by Molly's father Michael. Merlin reconsidered his verdict and Molly became Harry's apprentice.
In this novel, Sergeant Murphy has a probable suicide, but she rides a hunch and calls in Harry. He checks out the scene and casts a spell at a particular place on the wall. The notation "EXODUS 22:18" appears and Karrin knows the victim was murdered.
Suddenly, Murphy strikes out with a foot sweep and a young woman -- little more than a girl -- becomes visible and falls to the floor. Harry's apprentice Molly hasn't done as he told her and now she has a few bruises and pains to remind her to obey her master. Not that she is going to pay attention, but one more lesson won't hurt . . . much!
Harry does congratulate her on the invisibility spell, but points out that both he and Sergeant Murphy had noticed a few out-of-place sounds and smells. Molly needs to put in some extra practice, but she is improving. Molly goes home happy, but aching in several places.
In this story, Harry and Murphy find other victims around Chicago and elsewhere. Most of the Chicago victims belong to a witch group known as Ordo Lebes, which Dresden translates in his correspondence course Latin as "Order of the Big Pot". Karrin, however, suggests that a better interpretation would be "Order of the Cauldron". But one victim does not belong to this order.
Harry also discovers that one of the Ordo Lebes is Helen Beckitt, whom he has had problems with in the past. Although she cooperates with Harry and Murphy and doesn't even deny her prison record, Dresden just can't bring himself to trust her. When he discovers that she works for John Marcone, both Harry and Murphy become suspicious of her behavior.
Harry meets another old acquaintance on this case. Elaine had been his first girl, but they had parted after Harry killed their mentor. While the White Council ruled that the killing was in self-defense, Elaine was already gone. Yet she had not forgotten him and even followed his career path as a consulting wizard.
This story also has a minor side plot involving the fallen angel Lasciel. The shadow of Lasciel residing in his mind provides some useful services, such as translation of dead languages, but is still trying to seduce him to the evil side. It occurs to Harry that such seduction can go both ways and he treats "Lash" as an almost trusted friend. Some surprising changes occur.
While Harry doesn't really like being a Warden of the White Council, he hasn't considered it as a handicap. Then a mysterious Grey Cloak is noticed as somehow involved with the dead witches and everybody is afraid to tell Harry. And his brother Thomas is often observed with these victims shortly before their death or disappearances. Being an enforcer for the Council is bad enough without the paranormal community wondering whether you are responsible for these passings.
Highly recommended for Butcher fans and for anyone else who enjoys tales of preternatural creatures, paranormal individuals, and strange happenings.
-Arthur W. Jordin
Another winner.......2007-09-17
The Dresden File books have maintained their quality and readability. This one is no exception. Love the way these stories play out.
Love harry but need more Bob the Skull.......2007-09-05
I love this series and enjoy the way it is going. Harry is amusing and this one does not disappoint. I do miss Bob the Skull. He was not featured as much in this one and i miss that... just my own personal quirk.
Amazon.com
The first complete book by J.R.R. Tolkien in three decades--since the publication of The Silmarillion in 1977--The Children of Húrin reunites fans of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings with Elves and Men, dragons and Dwarves, Eagles and Orcs. Presented for the first time as a complete, standalone story, this stirring narrative will appeal to casual fans and expert readers alike, returning them to the rich landscape and characters unique to Tolkien.
Adam Tolkien on The Children of Húrin
How did a lifetime of stories become The Children of Húrin? In an essay on the making of the book, Adam Tolkien, grandson of J.R.R. Tolkien (and French translator of his History of Middle-earth), explains that the Húrin legends made up the third "Great Tale" of his grandfather's Middle-earth writing, and he describes how his father, Christopher Tolkien, painstakingly collected the pieces of the legend into a complete story told only in the words of J.R.R. Tolkien. "For anyone who has read The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings," he writes, The Children of Húrin "allows them to take a step back into a larger world, an ancient land of heroes and vagabonds, honour and jeopardy, hope and tragedy."
A Look Inside the Book
This first edition of The Children of Húrin is illustrated by Alan Lee, who was already well-known for his Tolkien illustrations in previous editions (see our Tolkien Store for more) as well as his classic collaboration with Brian Froud, Faeries, and his Kate Greenaway Medal-winning Black Ships Before Troy, before his Oscar-winning work as conceptual designer for Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings film trilogy brought him even greater acclaim. Here's a quick glimpse of two of Lee's interior illustrations for The Children of Húrin. (Click on each to see larger images.)
Questions for Alan Lee
We had the chance to ask Alan Lee a few questions about his illustrative collaboration with the world imagined by J.R.R. Tolkien:
Amazon.com: How much of a treat was it to get first crack at depicting entirely new characters rather than ones who had been interpreted many times before? Was there one who particularly captured your imagination?
Lee: Although it was a great honor to illustrate The Children of Húrin, the characters and the main elements of the story line are familiar to those who have read The Silmarillion and Unfinished Tales, and these narratives have inspired quite a few illustrators. Ted Nasmith has illustrated The Silmarillion and touched on some of the same characters and landscapes. This was the first time that I ventured into the First Age; while working on The Lord of the Rings books and films--and The Hobbit--I've had to refer back to events in Middle-earth history but not really depict them.
I'm drawn to characters who bear similarities to the protagonists in myths and legends; these correspondences add layers and shades of meaning, and most of the characters in this story have those archetypal qualities. However, I prefer not to get too close to the characters because the author is delineating them much more carefully than I can, and I'm wary of interfering with the pictures that the text is creating in the reader's mind.
Amazon.com: The Húrin story has been described as darker than some of Tolkien's other work. What mood did you try to set with your illustrations?
Lee: It is a tragic story, but the darkness is offset by the light and beauty of Tolkien's elegiac writing. In the illustrations I tried to show some of the fragile beauty of the landscapes and create an atmosphere that would enhance the sense of foreboding and impending loss. I try to get the setting to tell its part in the story, as evidence of what happened there in the past and as a hint at what is going to occur. My usual scarred and broken trees came in handy.
Amazon.com: You were a conceptual designer (and won an Oscar) for Peter Jackson's film trilogy of The Lord of the Rings, which I think we can safely say had a bit of success. How does designing for the screen compare to designing for the page?
Lee: They both have their share of joys and frustrations. It was great to be part of a huge film collaboration and play a small part in something quite magical and monumental; I will always treasure that experience. Film is attractive because I enjoy sketching and coming up with ideas more than producing highly finished artwork, and it's great having several hundred other people lending a hand! But books--as long as they don't get moldy from being left in an empty studio for six years--have their own special quality. I hope that I can continue doing both.
Amazon.com: Of all fiction genres, fantasy seems to have the strongest tradition of illustration. Why do you think that is? Who are some of your favorite illustrators?
Lee: A lot of excellent illustrators are working at the moment--especially in fantasy and children's books. It is exciting also to see graphic artists such as Dave McKean, in his film Mirrormask, moving between different media. I also greatly admire the more traditional work of Gennady Spirin and Roberto Innocenti. Kinuko Craft, John Jude Palencar, John Howe, Charles Vess, Brian Froud ... I'll stop there, as the list would get too long. But--in a fit of pride and justified nepotism--I'll add my daughter, Virginia Lee, to the list. Her first illustrated children's book, The Frog Bride [coming out in the U.K. in September], will be lovely.
More Tolkien Favorites
Visit our J.R.R. Tolkien Store for a complete selection of Tolkien classics, including deluxe editions, young readers' editions, and more.
The Lord of the Rings
50th Anniversary Edition |
The Hobbit
Collector's Edition |
The Atlas of Middle Earth |
Book Description
The first complete book by J.R.R. Tolkien in three decades -- since the publication of The Silmarillion in 1977 --
The Children of Hurin reunites fans of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings with Elves and Men, dragons and Dwarves, Eagles and Orcs. Presented for the first time as a complete, standalone story, this stirring narrative will appeal to casual fans and expert readers alike, returning them to the rich landscape and characters unique to Tolkien.
The Children of Hurin, begun in 1918, was one of three 'Great Tales' J.R.R. Tolkien worked on throughout his life, though he never realized his ambition to see it published. Though familiar to many fans from extracts and references within other Tolkien books, it has long been assumed that the story would forever remain an unfinished tale. Now reconstructed by Christopher Tolkien, painstakingly editing together the complete work from his father's many drafts, this book is the culmination of a tireless thirty-year endeavor by him to bring J.R.R.Tolkien's vast body of unpublished work to a wide audience.
Having drawn the distinctive maps for the original The Lord of the Rings more than 50 years ago, Christopher has also created a detailed new map for this book. In addition, it will include a jacket and color paintings by Alan Lee, illustrator of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings Centenary Edition and Academy Award-winning designer of the film trilogy.
Customer Reviews:
Tolkien fans rejoice!.......2007-09-27
This one takes a while to get started but once it does, it's wonderful. Just don't expect a happy ending. Great for Tolkien fans who are interested in some of the history of Middle Earth. Probably not good choice for someone who is not thoroughly entranced by Lord of the Rings.
Did you like the Silmarillion?.......2007-09-23
Then yeah, you'll like this. If you thought the Silmarillion was a tough nut to crack, then this is only slightly less so. Great stuff for Tolkien obsessives.
A Dark Tale From the First Age of Middle Earth.......2007-09-18
'The Children of Hurin' - in many ways an expanded chapter of 'The Silmarillion' - is the dark and tragic tale of Turin, the great Hero of Men in the First Age of Middle Earth.
Thousands of years before the events of 'The Hobbit' or 'The Lord of the Rings' the race of Men is proud and the Elves have yet to start their long decline which culminated with their leaving Middle Earth at the end of LOTR. The struggle between Morgoth and the Free Races in 'The Children of Hurin' is the struggle between great powers at their height. There are no reluctant heros in this tale.
After 'The Battle of Unnumbered Tears' Hurin, Human King of Belirand, was captured by Morgoth. When Hurin refused to give Morgoth the location of the hidden Elven city of Gondolin, Morgoth cursed Hurin's children. 'The Children of Hurin' is their tortured story.
Other reviewers have recounted the basic plot and I won't bore you by rehashing it. Instead, I'll give you my impression of the book.
'The Children of Hurin' is Tolkien at his darkest. You imagine this Middle Earth as a dark and frightening place, where even the power and fierceness of those on the side of 'good' is terrifying. This is the story of a cursed man. There are no bright spots, no comic turns, no Samwise Gamgee or Pippin to lighten the mood. This is a story where every character is some version of Boromir, Farimir, and the Last Steward of Gondor. Pride, deceit, struggle, violence and defeat dominate.
The language is slightly more archaic than that of 'The Lord of the Rings' but far less so than 'The Silmarillion,' giving us a very readable story. 'The Children of Hurin' is full of all the same detail and history that we are used to from Tolkien's other works. This story is every bit as good as the rest of the Tolkien canon. The Dragons, the swords, the magical cities and power of fate that Tolkien gave us in 'The Lord of the Rings' is here in spades.
For any true Tolkien fan, 'The Children of Hurin' is unmissable. For those who enjoyed 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' but failed to get through 'The Silmarillion' this new posthumous release is a great inroad into the history of Middle Earth.
Tolkien Jr........2007-09-14
This story is not as good as Lord of the Rings, however it is nice to revisit the same world in an earlier time. This story was written by a younger Tolkien and it is amazing to see how much he improved in Storytelling. You can see the seeds here, but his storytelling is, in this tale, a work in progress. It is actually refreshing to know that Tolkien wasn't simply born an exceptional writer, but rather through craft and practice developed his skill, opened it up. It is here though, as I mentioned, the seeds. You can see a glimpse into his elegant way of understating details to make them even more engaging. The story itself is nice. It doesn't flow and engross like LOTR, but it is nice. It's a nice little story. I don't know if this book is worth the hefty price. The illustrations are nice, and the index is nice as well, however the story is so short. I wish that they had included the other lost tales in with this one and made it an all encompassing book. This is definitely one of the better ancient, or lost tales, but it is almost clear that they should, and could be put together in one book. I enjoyed it. I love the world of Tolkien, and revisiting it. Do not expect LOTR, but it is a seed of the story, and told with a glimpse of that later beautiful story telling, and word craft. His son does a nice job in presenting all of his father's work. I like how he leaves it very raw, even the map.
A dark and tragic story.......2007-09-14
J.R.R. Tolkien's The Children of Hurin is a dark and tragic story. A tale of faerie it might be, but this is certainly no fairy tale! Too grim to be enchanting, it does however enthrall with horrific fascination as it draws the reader forcefully to the inevitable, terrible conclusion. So, a warning: if you're looking for an experience akin to reading The Hobbit, don't fool yourself: as you read the Children of Hurin you'll probably only ever crack a smile in appreciation of the prose. There's not a laugh in it.
Having said that, you'll be doing yourself a favour if you do seek out this refashioned jewel from Tolkien. For those who tried reading The Silmarillion but found it impenetrable, this could be the way back into what is universe building at its very best.
The story of the Children of Hurin occurs in the First Age of Middle Earth, some six and a half thousand years before the events recounted in The Lord of the Rings. So remote in the past is Hurin's tale that by the time Frodo sets out on his journey to destroy the One Ring the very land known to Hurin and his children has long been drowned beneath the sea; the ring does not yet exist; and its creator, the Dark Lord Sauron, is just the servant of Morgoth. Morgoth, the first Dark Lord, and mightiest of the godlike Valar, has fallen from grace through pride and arrogance and the desire to bring all life under his sway. A brutal war (depicted by Tolkien without any romantic delusions) is waged between the Elves and Morgoth. Men at this time are new to the world and some, though not all, have aligned themselves with the Elves against Morgoth. The Children of Hurin is the story of one man's refusal to bend to the Will of Evil and the curse that is visited upon him and his children in consequence. As Christopher Tolkien observes in the introduction to the novel, Morgoth's curse is unlike the curse of lesser beings; Morgoth does not invoke evil on Hurin and his family for he is Evil incarnate - there is no higher power to call upon:
"Upon all whom you love my thought shall weigh as a Cloud of Doom and it shall bring them down into darkness and despair."
What hope then for Hurin and his children, Turin and Nienor?
Not much. But some.
The tale focuses primarily on the exploits of Turin, although his fate and that of his sister Nienor are inextricably and tragically entwined in consequence of their wilful, unbending, often heroic, sometimes arrogant and misguided choices, human choices that are twisted and turned against them and all they love under the influence of Morgoth's Will.
Hurin's defiance of Morgoth promises the destruction of his family - Morgoth is a god, Hurin just a man - but there is nonetheless a wonderful tension between the seeming inevitability of their destruction and the heroic stature of Turin who we feel (and Morgoth fears) might just rise above the curse.
Grim stuff indeed, though not surprisingingly as the story had its inception in the dark days of World War I - the first so called Great War with its innovative methods for destroying lives en masse. Tolkien experienced the trenches first hand and lost his closest friends to the machinery of war and it's not surprising that this grimmest of stories took root in his imagination at that time. The story was nonetheless unfinished at the time of his death, although various versions had been published, most fully realised (in print at least) in The Silmarillion. Some time though it is since I read that work it doesn't seem to me that there is any significant difference between the plot in that version and this latest offering. The difference is that the earlier version is merely a sketch in comparison to this fully realised novel which has been edited from various sources into a seamless whole by Tolkien's son, Christopher, over the last 30 years.
Mention should also be made of the beautiful and evocative illustrations - paintings and sketches - by Alan Lee, long time illustrator of Tolkien's work and conceptual artist / consultant on Peter Jackson's movies of The Lord of the Rings. To be sure, Tolkien's evocation of landscape is so detailed and compelling that it does not require visual assistance to be realised in our mind's eye, and so it is tribute to Lee's artistry that his work is itself a compelling and worthy companion to the text.
In conclusion, the Children of Hurin is highly recommended - it is a truly moving tale, often beautifully written, evoking the harsh beauty of the landscape with the artistry of a great painter and the cruelty of fate with the unflinching eye of a realist. This is fantasy as it should be.
(This review first appeared on www.sffmedia.com)
Book Description
Follow Harry from his first days at Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry, through his many adventures with Hermione and Ron, to his confrontations with rival Draco Malfoy and the dreaded Professor Snape. From a dangerous descent into the Chamber of Secrets to the Triwizard Tournament to the return of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, each adventure is more riveting and exhilarating than its predecessor, and now all six books are available together for the first time in an elegant paperback boxed set.
Customer Reviews:
J.K. Rowling is the writer of the century........2007-10-10
Being an aspiring writer, I can appreciate the potential of a good imagination and an excellent ability to put thoughts into words. J.K. Rowling not only created an entire world in her own mind, she was able to project that world in an interesting, entertaining way to her millions of readers. Harry Potter is the quintessential hero who will appeal to adults as well as young children as he battles his way through a magical world of evil villains and befriends a host of unique and colorful characters. Give these books to the most unenthusiastic readers and you are guaranteed to create faithful Potter fans.
Avada Kadavra.......2007-10-09
I love the series, and you can't get it at a better price! I know these books will be around for generations to come, and I am glad to have added them to my library. Following the adventures, misadventures and everything else of Harry, Hermione and Ron is extremely fulfilling and I do recommend it to anyone who enjoys fantasy in a fully realistic manner.
Great way to keep a collection.......2007-10-09
I love the boxed edition of the Harry Potter series. It's a great way to keep the collection organized on the book shelf.
Harry Potter paperback set.......2007-10-07
I had been looking for the series of books at bookstores with no luck. I found this on Amazon.com and it was perfect! The price was great! It was given as a gift and the reciepient was overjoyed with the great presentation of the books in the little set.
cheap!.......2007-10-07
cheap and fast shipping!!!! I got it from Amazon and it arrived the next day (I chose free shipping which is suppose to take longer but it didn't)
Amazon.com
The long-awaited, eagerly anticipated, arguably over-hyped Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince has arrived, and the question on the minds of kids, adults, fans, and skeptics alike is, "Is it worth the hype?" The answer, luckily, is simple: yep. A magnificent spectacle more than worth the price of admission, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince will blow you away. However, given that so much has gone into protecting the secrets of the book (including armored trucks and injunctions), don't expect any spoilers in this review. It's much more fun not knowing what's coming--and in the case of Rowling's delicious sixth book, you don't want to know. Just sit tight, despite the earth-shattering revelations that will have your head in your hands as you hope the words will rearrange themselves into a different story. But take one warning to heart: do not open Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince until you have first found a secluded spot, safe from curious eyes, where you can tuck in for a good long read. Because once you start, you won't stop until you reach the very last page.
A darker book than any in the series thus far with a level of sophistication belying its genre, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince moves the series into murkier waters and marks the arrival of Rowling onto the adult literary scene. While she has long been praised for her cleverness and wit, the strength of Book 6 lies in her subtle development of key characters, as well as her carefully nuanced depiction of a community at war. In Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, no one and nothing is safe, including preconceived notions of good and evil and of right and wrong. With each book in her increasingly remarkable series, fans have nervously watched J.K. Rowling raise the stakes; gone are the simple delights of butterbeer and enchanted candy, and days when the worst ailment could be cured by a bite of chocolate. A series that began as a colorful lark full of magic and discovery has become a dark and deadly war zone. But this should not come as a shock to loyal readers. Rowling readied fans with Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by killing off popular characters and engaging the young students in battle. Still, there is an unexpected bleakness from the start of Book 6 that casts a mean shadow over Quidditch games, silly flirtations, and mountains of homework. Ready or not, the tremendous ending of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince will leave stunned fans wondering what great and terrible events await in Book 7 if this sinister darkness is meant to light the way. --Daphne Durham
Visit the Harry Potter Store
Our Harry Potter Store features all things Harry, including books (box sets and collector's editions), audio CDs and cassettes, DVDs, soundtracks, games, and more.
Begin at the Beginning
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Hardcover
Paperback |
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Hardcover
Paperback |
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Hardcover
Paperback |
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Hardcover
Paperback |
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Hardcover
Paperback |
Why We Love Harry
Favorite Moments from the Series
There are plenty of reasons to love Rowling's wildly popular series--no doubt you have several dozen of your own. Our list features favorite moments, characters, and artifacts from the first five books. Keep in mind that this list is by no means exhaustive (what we love about Harry could fill ten books!) and does not include any of the spectacular revelatory moments that would spoil the books for those (few) who have not read them. Enjoy.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
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* Harry's first trip to the zoo with the Dursleys, when a boa constrictor winks at him.
* When the Dursleys' house is suddenly besieged by letters for Harry from Hogwarts. Readers learn how much the Dursleys have been keeping from Harry. Rowling does a wonderful job in displaying the lengths to which Uncle Vernon will go to deny that magic exists.
* Harry's first visit to Diagon Alley with Hagrid. Full of curiosities and rich with magic and marvel, Harry's first trip includes a trip to Gringotts and Ollivanders, where Harry gets his wand (holly and phoenix feather) and discovers yet another connection to He-Who-Must-No-Be-Named. This moment is the reader's first full introduction to Rowling's world of witchcraft and wizards.
* Harry's experience with the Sorting Hat. |
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
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* The de-gnoming of the Weasleys' garden. Harry discovers that even wizards have chores--gnomes must be grabbed (ignoring angry protests "Gerroff me! Gerroff me!"), swung about (to make them too dizzy to come back), and tossed out of the garden--this delightful scene highlights Rowling's clever and witty genius.
* Harry's first experience with a Howler, sent to Ron by his mother.
* The Dueling Club battle between Harry and Malfoy. Gilderoy Lockhart starts the Dueling Club to help students practice spells on each other, but he is not prepared for the intensity of the animosity between Harry and Draco. Since they are still young, their minibattle is innocent enough, including tickling and dancing charms. |
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
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* Ron's attempt to use a telephone to call Harry at the Dursleys'.
* Harry's first encounter with a Dementor on the train (and just about any other encounter with Dementors). Harry's brush with the Dementors is terrifying and prepares Potter fans for a darker, scarier book.
* Harry, Ron, and Hermione's behavior in Professor Trelawney's Divination class. Some of the best moments in Rowling's books occur when she reminds us that the wizards-in-training at Hogwarts are, after all, just children. Clearly, even at a school of witchcraft and wizardry, classes can be boring and seem pointless to children.
* The Boggart lesson in Professor Lupin's classroom.
* Harry, Ron, and Hermione's knock-down confrontation with Snape. |
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
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* Hermione's disgust at the reception for the veela (Bulgarian National Team Mascots) at the Quidditch World Cup. Rowling's fourth book addresses issues about growing up--the dynamic between the boys and girls at Hogwarts starts to change. Nowhere is this more plain than the hilarious scene in which magical cheerleaders nearly convince Harry and Ron to jump from the stands to impress them.
* Viktor Krum's crush on Hermione--and Ron's objection to it.
* Malfoy's "Potter Stinks" badge.
* Hermione's creation of S.P.E.W., the intolerant bigotry of the Death Eaters, and the danger of the Triwizard Tournament. Add in the changing dynamics between girls and boys at Hogwarts, and suddenly Rowling's fourth book has a weight and seriousness not as present in early books in the series. Candy and tickle spells are left behind as the students tackle darker, more serious issues and take on larger responsibilities, including the knowledge of illegal curses. |
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
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* Harry's outburst to his friends at No. 12 Grimmauld Place. A combination of frustration over being kept in the dark and fear that he will be expelled fuels much of Harry's anger, and it all comes out at once, directly aimed at Ron and Hermione. Rowling perfectly portrays Harry's frustration at being too old to shirk responsibility, but too young to be accepted as part of the fight that he knows is coming.
* Harry's detention with Professor Umbridge. Rowling shows her darker side, leading readers to believe that Hogwarts is no longer a safe haven for young wizards. Dolores represents a bureaucratic tyrant capable of real evil, and Harry is forced to endure their private battle of wills alone.
* Harry and Cho's painfully awkward interactions. Rowling clearly remembers what it was like to be a teenager.
* Harry's Occlumency lessons with Snape.
* Dumbledore's confession to Harry. |
Magic, Mystery, and Mayhem: A Conversation with J.K. Rowling
"I am an extraordinarily lucky person, doing what I love best in the world. I'm sure that I will always be a writer. It was wonderful enough just to be published. The greatest reward is the enthusiasm of the readers." --J.K. Rowling
Find out more about Harry's creator in our exclusive interview with J.K. Rowling.
Did You Know?
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The Little White Horse was J.K. Rowling's favorite book as a child. |
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Jane Austen is Rowling's favorite author. |
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Roddy Doyle is Rowling's favorite living writer. |
A Few Words from Mary GrandPré
"When I illustrate a cover or a book, I draw upon what the author tells me; that's how I see my responsibility as an illustrator. J.K. Rowling is very descriptive in her writing--she gives an illustrator a lot to work with. Each story is packed full of rich visual descriptions of the atmosphere, the mood, the setting, and all the different creatures and people. She makes it easy for me. The images just develop as I sketch and retrace until it feels right and matches her vision." Check out more Harry Potter art from illustrator Mary GrandPré.
Book Description
We could tell you, but then we'd have to Obliviate your memory.
Customer Reviews:
The Epic Harry Potter Year 6.......2007-10-10
I have not always been a Harry Potter fan until recently. I have all the movies up until Year 4 and all the books including the last one Deathly Hallows year 7. I recommend buying and reading all the Harry Potter books, the excitement and tension truly does not build until this book "The Half Blood Prince" year 6. J.K. Rowlings never ceases to amaze me with her vivid imagination. As I read her books I instantly feel like I am watching the movie and no longer reading. Now I am sure all the true Harry Potter fans saw the latest movie year 5 "The Order of the Phoenix" that catalyzed the journey. I like to thank Amazon.com for keeping all the Harry Potter fans up to date. Stay stuned for the Harry Potter theme park called "Wizarding World" coming to Universal Studios in 2009. I will be the first in line!
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince .......2007-10-09
This was by far the best of all the books I loved it and read it in 2 days I couldn't put it down.
Starts out with a Bang and Becomes a Real Page-turner.......2007-10-01
I've got to admit, as the Potter series continues, it only gets better. The Half-blood Prince grabs your attention from the start and unfolds into the darkest of the series. This book contains many twists and turns, most of which leave the reader wanting to find out more. What makes this book different from the others is that there are quite a few surprises as characters reveal personalities that may not have been fully unveiled previously and this, in turn, leads to a highly fascinating read. I'm afraid that I have to admit, I was about to put the book down before calling it a night, with about 100 pages to go and simply couldn't - the story became so enthralling that I just had to go on to finish it! I don't think that there is any question (at least in my mind), that Half-blood Prince, is the best of the series so far. As with all good series, this one left with a real cliff-hanger - I'm only glad that I waited until the Rowling finished the series - that way, I don't have to wait for the next one to come out: I've already started the final book. Got to get back to my reading!
Harry Potter book 6.......2007-09-26
Great book!!!
Highly recommended book, however it is not for kids. It is for young adults and up.
A great book!.......2007-09-25
This book will be something to be read for generations. I put this series somewhere between Chronicles of Narnia and Lord of the Rings for greatest series of books of all time. This particular book is mostly an introduction to the final book in the series, "The Deathly Hallows". It is a self contained plot but leaves much to the next book to finish. I highly recommend the entire series.
Average customer rating:
- Fantastic!
- OMGOSH! Amazing!
- She is getting better and better
- For a Few Demons More
- Highly Recomended
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For a Few Demons More (Rachel Morgan, Book 5)
Kim Harrison
Manufacturer: Eos
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
 United States | Horror | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Dark Fantasy | Horror | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Vampires | Horror | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
General | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0060788380
Release Date: 2007-03-20 |
Amazon.com
With her action-packed Hollows series, featuring former bounty hunter--and mistress of the dark arts--Rachel Morgan, Kim Harrison has become one of the hottest authors in the incredibly popular genre of sexy supernaturalism. In her latest Hollows tale, For a Few Dollars More, Rachel unleashes all kinds of undead fury on the greater Cincinnati area when she tries to track down a serial killer. To catch up on the Hollows series so far, and to see the music that has inspired the stories, see below.
Follow the Hollows
Dead Witch Walking (Book 1) |
The Good, the Bad, and the Undead (Book 2) |
Every Which Way but Dead (Book 3) |
A Fistful of Charms (Book 4) |
Music Is the Muse
For Kim Harrison, music inspires her stories, and especially her characters. In her exclusive Music Is the Muse list for us, she reveals some favorite records that have provided the source, and the soul, for Rachel, Ivy, Trent, and more of her passionate and powerful characters. Among her muses:
Bleed Like Me, Garbage |
With Teeth, Nine Inch Nails |
Fallen, Evanescence |
Book Description
Despite dating one vampire and living with another, Rachel Morgan has always managed to stay just ahead of trouble . . . until now.
A fiendish serial killer stalks the Hollows, claiming victims across society, and the resulting terror ignites a vicious Inderland gang war. And while the ancient artifact Rachel is hiding may be the key to stopping the murderer, revealing it could also create a battle to the death among the numerous supernatural races that live in and around Cincinnati.
For every action has its price, and when the vampire master Piscary is set free and the demonic Algaliarept dares to walk openly under the sun, even Rachel Morgan can't hide forever.
Customer Reviews:
Fantastic!.......2007-10-02
I love this series immensely. The characters are believable and fun. Kim Harrison knows how to write a story. I've love all of her previous books and this one is no different. The plot is intense. It's the kind of book you can't put down. I love how Rachel is portrayed. I look foward to the next ones!
OMGOSH! Amazing!.......2007-09-17
Everytime I think a book cant get any better i get shocked and this book was awesome!! I love Rachel although im a HUGE fan of IVEY! she rocks. I love how this book plays out i think its the best in the series so far!
She is getting better and better.......2007-09-17
Ms Harrison is getting better with each installation. Can't wait for her next book!. The addition of a "few more demons" was brilliant and diversified the storyline nicely.
For a Few Demons More.......2007-09-05
This entire series rocks!!! Pick them up and you can't put them down. The cast of characters are memorable and believable. I had given up on urban fantasy, Laurel K Hamilton will do that to you. (that's called fair warning folks)
However Kim Harrison saved the day. I have all the Rachel Morgan books and have my calender marked as to when I can get the next one coming out. The plots MOVE.. and in unexpected ways at times. While relationships are there, Ms. Harrison doesn't let it become the whole story (thank the goddess for that!)
This books are a must read for all urban fantasy fans!!
Highly Recomended.......2007-08-23
I think this book is the best in the series so far. It seems like Kim Harrison books just get better and better. I love this series and I'm waiting feverishly for the next one. If the rest of the books in her series are any indication, then the next book will be even better than this one. I really liked this book because of the brilliant mix of humor, horror, fantasy, and characters that are so well described I feel like I know them. I've never read an author who could shock me, scare me, then make me laugh out loud so many times in the same book. Trust me, this one is worth several all-nighters.
Average customer rating:
- Dull, Derivative, Didactic
- Awesome Continuation of an Incredible Book
- Amazing book!!!!
- A Derivitave Cluster (Insert Expletive)
- Nice derivation for uses of magic and when it comes from
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Eldest (Inheritance, Book 2)
Christopher Paolini
Manufacturer: Knopf Books for Young Readers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Action & Adventure | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Magic | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Inheritance | Fantasy & Adventure | Series | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Paolini, Christopher | ( P ) | Authors & Illustrators, A-Z | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Adventure & Thrillers | Literature & Fiction | Teens | Subjects | Books
Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books
Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
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Eragon (Inheritance, Book 1)
-
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Book 7)
-
Inkheart
-
Inkspell
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The Lost Colony (Artemis Fowl, Book 5)
ASIN: 0375840400
Release Date: 2007-03-13 |
Amazon.com
Surpassing its popular prequel Eragon, this second volume in the Inheritance trilogy shows growing maturity and skill on the part of its very young author, who was only seventeen when the first volume was published in 2003. The story is solidly in the tradition (some might say derivative) of the classic heroic quest fantasy, with the predictable cast of dwarves, elves, and dragons--but also including some imaginatively creepy creatures of evil.
The land of Alagaesia is suffering under the Empire of the wicked Galbatorix, and Eragon and his dragon Saphira, last of the Riders, are the only hope. But Eragon is young and has much to learn, and so he is sent off to the elven forest city of Ellesmera, where he and Saphira are tutored in magic, battle skills, and the ancient language by the wise former Rider Oromis and his elderly dragon Glaedr. Meanwhile, back at Carvahall, Eragon's home, his cousin Roran is the target of a siege by the hideous Ra'zac, and he must lead the villagers on a desperate escape over the mountains. The two narratives move toward a massive battle with the forces of Galbatorix, where Eragon learns a shocking secret about his parentage and commits himself to saving his people.
The sheer size of the novel, as well as its many characters, places with difficult names, and its use of imaginary languages make this a challenging read, even for experienced fantasy readers. It is essential to have the plot threads of the first volume well in mind before beginning--the publisher has provided not only a map, but a helpful synopsis of the first book and a much-needed Language Guide. But no obstacles will deter the many fans of Eragon from diving headfirst into this highly-awaited fantasy. (Ages 12 and up) --Patty Campbell
Meet Author Christopher Paolini
Christopher Paolini's abiding love of fantasy and science fiction inspired him to begin writing his debut novel, Eragon, when he graduated from high school at age 15.
"Writing is the heart and soul of my being. It is the means through which I bring my stories to life. There is nothing like putting words on a page and knowing that they will summon certain emotions and reactions from the reader. In my writing, I strive for a lyrical beauty somewhere between Tolkien at his best and Seamus Heaney's translation of Beowulf." --Christopher Paolini
Paolini talks more about the series, and about what inspires him in this video clip.
Watch the video (high bandwith)
Watch the video (low bandwith)
The Eragon/Eldest Boxed Set
Want to learn more about the series? Check out our review of Eragon: Here's a great big fantasy that you can pull over your head like a comfy old sweater and disappear into for a whole weekend. Christopher Paolini began Eragon when he was just 15, and the book shows the influence of Tolkien, of course, but also Terry Brooks, Anne McCaffrey, and perhaps even Wagner in its traditional quest structure and the generally agreed-upon nature of dwarves, elves, dragons, and heroic warfare with magic swords. Read more
Order your copy of the boxed set today
Learn the Lingo
Our quickie pronunciation guide will help you get to know some of the names and places in the Inheritance series.
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Ajihad |
AH-zhi-hod |
The Leader of the Varden |
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Argetlam |
ARE-jet-lahm |
Elven word to describe Dragon Riders meaning "silver hand" |
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Arya |
AR-ee-uh |
A powerful elf who is both beautiful and a master swordswoman |
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Eragon |
EHR-uh-gahn |
A Dragon Rider from Carvahall |
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Ra-zac |
RAA-zack |
Evil creatures |
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Saphira |
suh-FEAR-uh |
Eragon's dragon |
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*Art copyright © 2004 John Jude Palencar |
Book Description
Darkness falls…despair abounds…evil reigns…
Eragon and his dragon, Saphira, have just saved the rebel state from destruction by the mighty forces of King Galbatorix, cruel ruler of the Empire. Now Eragon must travel to Ellesmera, land of the elves, for further training in the skills of the Dragon Rider: magic and swordsmanship. Soon he is on the journey of a lifetime, his eyes open to awe-inspring new places and people, his days filled with fresh adventure. But chaos and betrayal plague him at every turn, and nothing is what it seems. Before long, Eragon doesn’t know whom he can trust.
Meanwhile, his cousin Roran must fight a new battle–one that might put Eragon in even graver danger.
Will the king’s dark hand strangle all resistance? Eragon may not escape with even his life. . . .
Praise for Eragon:
“Unusual, powerful . . . fresh and fluid. An impressive start to a writing career that’s sure to flourish.” –Booklist, Starred
“Christopher Paolini make[s] literary magic with his precocious debut.” –People
“The new ‘It’ book of children’s lit.” –U.S. News & World Report
“An auspicious beginning to both career and series.” –Publishers Weekly
A #1 New York Times Bestseller
A #1 Publishers Weekly Bestseller
A USA Today Bestseller
A Wall Street Journal Bestseller
A Book Sense Book of the Year
A #1 Book Sense Selection
From the Hardcover edition.
Download Description
Darkness falls…despair abounds…evil reigns…
Eragon and his dragon, Saphira, have just saved the rebel state from destruction by the mighty forces of King Galbatorix, cruel ruler of the Empire. Now Eragon must travel to Ellesmera, land of the elves, for further training in the skills of the Dragon Rider: magic and swordsmanship. Soon he is on the journey of a lifetime, his eyes open to awe-inspring new places and people, his days filled with fresh adventure. But chaos and betrayal plague him at every turn, and nothing is what it seems. Before long, Eragon doesn’t know whom he can trust.
Meanwhile, his cousin Roran must fight a new battle–one that might put Eragon in even graver danger.
Will the king’s dark hand strangle all resistance? Eragon may not escape with even his life. . . .
Praise for Eragon:
“Unusual, powerful . . . fresh and fluid. An impressive start to a writing career that’s sure to flourish.” –Booklist, Starred
“Christopher Paolini make[s] literary magic with his precocious debut.” –People
“The new ‘It’ book of children’s lit.” –U.S. News & World Report
“An auspicious beginning to both career and series.” –Publishers Weekly
A #1 New York Times Bestseller
A #1 Publishers Weekly Bestseller
A USA Today Bestseller
A Wall Street Journal Bestseller
A Book Sense Book of the Year
A #1 Book Sense Selection
From the Hardcover edition.
Customer Reviews:
Dull, Derivative, Didactic.......2007-09-27
In Eldest, Paolini carries over all his mistakes with Eragon. The stealing from LOTR and Star Wars is more blatant than before. The needless details and purple prose are still there. The dialogue and characters are dryer than ever.
In addition to these flaws, Paolini has added in another literary no-no. Preachiness. Though we saw hints of his amateur philosophy in Eragon, it's ten times worse in Eldest. He uses Oromis as a soapbox to inject random sermons on atheism and vegetarianism into his story. I have no problem with sermons in fiction if they are relevant to themes well-woven into the plot. Yet atheism, religion, and vegetarianism seem irrelevant to Eragon's fight with Galbatorix. So why are they there?
The worst part is that Eldest's religious debates are frightfully immature. Neither side is well articulated. Oromis is a superficial question-dodger (which embarrasses me as an atheist). The religious characters are stereotypical screaming, spitting, straw men (that last alliterative bit surpasses all Paolini's poetic ability by the way). I can only pray (pun intended) that Paolini will give up this sad adolescent attempt at depth.
Awesome Continuation of an Incredible Book.......2007-09-17
I had been waiting for years when this came out. After reading Eragon, the first of the Inheritance Trilogy, I was just left hanging with the abrupt ending. Well this one picks up just about as abruptly, and doesn't really let go or calm down throughout.
I had read some reviews which complained about the training which Eragon and Saphira go through - how it takes up so much time and how its so boring and all that. I'll admit I'm a bit of a nerd, but I thought Paolini did an excellent job keeping things moving through the training phase. He actually left me wanting more. He also utilizes that period in the book to explore a little more the history of the world he's created. You can see a very strong Tolkien emphasis there (not to mention with many of the names he's chosen for characters and places!).
And I think this book turns the tale more into a multi-character tale, with the return of Roran and the adventure he undertakes which eventually links him back to Eragon.
Overall, very well done. I pretty much inhaled the book - it definitely moved and kept the story rolling on. I had a really hard time putting it down every night. It's also neat to see Paolini's maturation as an author. And I just can't wait for the third book!
Amazing book!!!!.......2007-09-10
I was bored one day at my libary and so i picked Eragon, that was most likly one of the best desisions of my life. It started my on this world of adventure Eldest, the sequel takes off right where Eragon left off and while being much thicker in length is also much better in story and plot. The Author does a great job in creating a world that just bursts in creativity, while also involving some of the clasic elements of surprise, suspence, romance, and the thrill before a battle. Eldest also brings you deep into the culture of Alligasia, I personaly did an all nighter while reading this book, i just could not put it down. My only disappointnent was that it had such a cliff hanger at the end!!! You should not read this book before reading Eragon, but please do read this eventually because this is currently the best book ever written!
A Derivitave Cluster (Insert Expletive).......2007-09-05
Although some have commented on this previously I will try and put my own spin on this...(warning plot spoilers, what little plot there was are below)
1. Because Obi-Wan Kenobi/Brom's died before completing Luke/Eragon's training, he travels to Dagobah/Elven Lands, to complete his training with Master Yoda/Deebag Lord of Elves.
2. Hero trains for awhile in secluded location by last jedi master/dragonrider left.
3. Luke/Eragon gets a vison of his friends in trouble and travels to Cloud City/Battlefield where he meets a dark figure who he battles and loses his lightsabre/dragonsword in the process. The critical all shocking moment is when Darth Vader/Red Dragon Knight reveals that Luke/Eragon I am your father/brother. Of course if you could be blind as a bat reading the book in braile and seen that Murtag was the red dragon rider about a million miles away...so it wasn't much of a revelation.
4. This book is bad, not in the mildly gosh that's several hours of my life I'll never get back but in a jaw dropping, utterly shocked, the world is now dumber for having read this book way. I read a review that mentioned that the editor of this book did a dismal job. He was certainly accurate in that assessment. Abysmally written, unoriginal to a point of plot plagarism, and editing to shock the conscience.
5. I know that Amazon requires you be over the age of 13 to post a review but I have to sincerely believe that no one over the age of 12 could honestly get mild entertainment out of such a sloppy mess as Eldest. It makes me worry to see so many positive reviews of such utter tripe.
6. I have a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature which I earned departmental Honor's in as well as Juris Doctor degree. Not that it makes my point anymore valid or the book any worse. But I would recommend avoiding this book like a leper with a bad case of herpes.
Nice derivation for uses of magic and when it comes from.......2007-08-29
Very good effort, and with a few parts that I found myself reading 5 or six times at different dates. If your have read it or happen to be Christopher Paolini, all I have to say is "Good Lord" middle section "Eldest", that section was my favorite. I also noticed the werecat clue you dropped in Eragon which as not reared it's head as of 2 books. A very good read, even if you are tired of old style fantasy books. The charactors make all the diffence.
Looking forward to Book 3.
Book Description
Harry Dresden--Wizard
Lost items found. Paranormal investigations.
Consulting. Advice. Reasonable rates.
No Love Potions, Endless Purses, Parties, or Other Entertainment.
Harry Dresden is the best at what he does. Well, technically, he's the only at what he does. So when the Chicago P.D. has a case that transcends mortal creativity or capability, they come to him for answers. For the "everyday" world is actually full of strange and magical things--and most of them don't play too well with humans. That's where Harry comes in. Takes a wizard to catch a--well, whatever.
There's just one problem. Business, to put it mildly, stinks. So when the police bring him in to consult on a grisly double murder committed with black magic, Harry's seeing dollar signs. But where there's magic, there's a black mage behind it. And now that mage knows Harry's name. And that's when things start to get... interesting.
Magic. It can get a guy killed.
Customer Reviews:
Has everything a good book should!!.......2007-10-09
This book has everything that a good book should. It has action, thrills, the ocult in a very believeable and down to earth situation. It also makes you want to just up and shake Harry from time to time!!! I loved it!!!
The Dresden Files - How did I miss these????.......2007-09-30
A few weeks ago I ended up purchasing book 1 of the Dresden Files, Storm Front, deciding I would give it a chance. I believe I was reading a Christopher Golden Book (The Veil or the newest Menagerie Book) and saw something in the back about Butcher's books. Oh my gosh, I could not believe when I started reading the books that I missed out on them for so many years. From the first pages, I was hooked and looked forward to purchasing EVERY other book in the series. I haven't watched the show based on the books yet, but if it is 10% as good as this series, I'm all over it! If you like books about the modern world with hidden underpinnings of the supernatural, please give the series a try, you will not be disappointed!
Awesome.......2007-09-28
I stumbled onto the SciFi Channel series and finally got around to picking up some of the books.
I love the TV series but this book is so much better. I hope Jim Butcher is up to writing these for a long time.
Great. Just great!
Another wizard named Harry.......2007-09-26
I must confess that my affection for the short-lived TV series was what roused my curiosity and got me reading this book. I don't do detective novels, but this time I made an exception. The Harry Dresden series as a whole is one long, continuous story, a sort of combination of Sam Spade, Kolchak the Nightstalker, Harry Potter, and manages to throw in almost every element of the fantasy genre that their author could conjure up.
This first book in the series, "Storm Front", is the only one adapted for TV. The book is, of course, a lot longer and more complex, much more intense, the characters are drawn out in greater depth, and also, a great deal funnier. As in most of the Harry Dresden adventures, our hero is confronted with a supernatural menace that nearly brings about his destruction, only to foil his enemy at the very last moment. Along the way, he meets the love of his life, Susan, is forced into aquaintence with a mob leader, deals with a supernatural enemy, and of course has a wonderfully exciting, comical battle with giant scorpions and a demonic toad, all on a disastrous first date.
Harry is not only a guy you can believe in and feel for, but a true superhero.
Pretty good.......2007-09-23
Not bad at all. To be fair I watched TV series before I listened to the first book, and it seems they changed quite a few things in the TV series in regards to the relationships between characters.
The book does a good job of explaining some of the logic behind the magic in Dresden's world. The one thing I really do like (Butcher barely touches the idea in this book but it becomes more prevalent in later books) is that Dresden's brand of magic is not the only source of supernatural power in his world. Power can come from other faiths and beliefs as well.
Quite a few things were predictable but overall I would say the book was interesting enough to keep me reading on to the next book. Especially because I heard from those who read all the books thus far that the series becomes much better especially by the end of book 3.
Book Description
Harry's first six years of magic, mystery, and adventure at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry are now available in a handsome hardcover boxed set.
Includes books one through six: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone; Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets; Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban; Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire; Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix; and the most recent addition to the bestselling series, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
Customer Reviews:
HARRY POTTER!.......2007-10-05
These books are a must read for all ages. Even if you are skeptical, try them out. I promise you will love them.
Simply Great.......2007-09-27
Simply Great worth the time to read. I know everyone says this about every book but they are soooo much better than the movies.
Outstanding delivery time.......2007-09-21
Just wanted to say how pleased I was with the quick delivery of the Harry Potter Book Set. It arrived quicker that I expected it to and was exactly what I was looking for.
Harry Potter Hardcover Box Set Books 1-6.......2007-09-16
I bought this set for my 23 year old for her birthday. Two of our other children enticed her into reading Harry Potter. She really wanted the set and so the entire family pitched in to get it for her. She loved it. She was so excited. I have read the Harry Potter series myself except for number seven, which I am going to do soon. The entire series deserves a five star rating. Ordering from Amazon was easy, fast and efficient. The books were shipped promptly and were everything Amazon said they would be. I love ordering from Amazon and will continue to do so in the future.
Awsome Books!!.......2007-09-15
These Harry Potter books are very awsome to read young and adults alike!! I purchased these as set and glad it did. Will be treasure forever!! Recommend to Read!!
Average customer rating:
- i didn't miss edward
- New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
- Did not live up to the first
- AMAZING!!!!!!
- The story continues.....
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New Moon (Twilight, Book 2)
Stephenie Meyer
Manufacturer: Little, Brown Young Readers
ProductGroup: Book
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