When I was in middle school, I read through most of my classes. I was nerdy and bored so the wild and occasionally violent world of fantasy series held my attention far more than the material being presented to me. I deferred on one hit wonders and preferred a trilogy as to prolong the story I was sure to become invested in. I realize now that many of the series I read back in middle school were possibly more suited for an older reader, though I think I knew that even then and ignored it regardless. Still, I’d like you all to take a look back with me on some of the things that stuck with me and even if we’re too old now, we can reinvigorate that part of ourselves that was entirely enthralled by swords and magic.
1) His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman
Rarely recognized by its official name, His Dark Materials is laden with a mix of reality and mysticism, as well as a heavy religious overtone that intensifies as the series progresses. The most famous installation, in large part due to its movie adaptation, The Golden Compass is the first in the series and in my opinion the most accessible. The sequel and the concluding volume The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass I found to be more convoluted, and for that reason, definitely worth reading again.
2) Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini
The tetralogy following the adventures, and rather serious political campaigns, of Eragon and his dragon Saphira may possibly be my favorite fantasy series of all time. Dark in an epic way, the Inheritance Cycle chronicles how 15 year old Eragon becomes the cornerstone of Alagaesia hope to overthrow the evilest of all evil kings, Galbatorix. What I love about Eragon, Eldest, Brisingr and Inheritance is that there is just enough intrigue to keep me engaged while not falling to the melodramatic temptations of the sword and hero genre.
3) Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan
Greek mythology. Sword fighting. Empowered, half goddess female roles. A young, dark haired boy with an absentee father. The Percy Jackson series is the perfect blend of our world, the anciently divine, and summer camp. Watch as Percy struggles to control his blossoming powers as the son of Poseidon, while shouldering leadership in a vicious fight both for the gods and against them. These books are simple compared to some of the others on this list, but entertainment does not implicate complexity, my friends.
4) Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
I was always drawn to boy geniuses as protagonists, and young, wealthy Artemis Fowler fit the bill wonderfully. With a spunky, lady fairy and an amazingly large and lethal bodyguard as companions, Fowler did his best to be a real kid while playing chess blindfolded and saving the world when he was called upon to do so. Similar to dear Percy in difficulty level, Artemis Fowler is a solidly nostalgic read.
People too often make the mistake of leaving old, healthy comforts in the past because they think that no one else will be bringing a teddy bear to college, so why should they. This is false, everyone has their teddy bears. Go back to your safe spaces and relish in them. Eragon happens to be mine, and you are more than welcome to join me.
Image sources: Amazon.ca, Amazon.com, Scholastic.com