First, let me say that I don't really know who reads these. And without having a clear picture of my audience, I am certain my style shall suffer. So, I have decided to use this journal as simply a chronicle of thoughts, things I may later consider useful insights into my younger psyche. It may contain book reviews, poems, impressions of people I meet (names protected), ideas for stories, etc.

Let's kick things off with a book review, shall we? Not a very formal one, but I hope it may be of interest. And what is the book, you may ask? Good question. The book is:

Elantris, by Brian Sanderson

This book interests me because, as a first novel, you can see a writer in the making. The beginning is a little slow, with too much exposition, and I have seen it rightly criticized for telling rather than showing. The reader is told that Sarene is clever, told that Raoden is loved by the people, without much evidence provided to back it up.

That being said . . . if you can get past about the first 200 pages, the novel (and the writer) begins to gather steam. The characters are well-drawn and involving, and the three-perspective POV is handled with grace. The plot is also well done: original, complicated, and mysterious enough to hold the reader's attention. When the pieces start to fit together, it works. Sanderson is not afraid to deal frankly with complex issues of politics and religion. His characters lie and cheat and create intricate power plays. Some of them are immediately explained, and some held back for the big reveal. In this way, the novel gains power and depth surprising for a first-time author.

****WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD****

What really impressed me about Elantris, however, was the character of Hrathen. Originally seeming to be no more than a good antagonist, he grows steadily, changing more than any other character in the book. For this reason, he actually becomes a protagonist, and it is suddenly clear why Sanderson chose to follow his narrative as well as Raoden and Sarene's.

Also, that scene where he kills Dilaf is kick-ass. Just saying.

****OKAY, NO MORE SPOILERS NOW****

In conclusion, Elantris has some of the major flaws expected in a first novel (especially toward the beginning), but as Sanderson's writing style develops, it redeems itself. He manages to create a complex and engaging world, with history, religion, politics, several well-drawn countries, and magic. The characters are likable, and some surprise you, which is always a good thing.

I would like to see Sanderson explore this world more, especially countries like Svorden, Fjorden, Duladen, and Jindo.

I would recommend this book, with the caveat that you have to push through the first bit, and take it for what it is. Then let yourself get swept away.

All right, I believe that is a solid first entry!

Good night and good luck.

~Katie