Rereading and Reconnecting with Old Friends

December 29, 2012

I love reading epic adventure books over and over again. There is something about reading a character at different stages in life that brings a greater understanding of a particular character, the book at large, and sometimes even the reader. I am currently rereading David Eddings' Pawn of Prophecy, the first book in the Belgariad series.

I have read these books over and over again. I have followed our main character, Garion, from his humble beginnings as a farm boy into manhood and his birthright. Along the way, he travels the world, survives many a battle both on and off the field, navigates lots of juicy court intrigues, sticky murders, and numerous plot twists. I won't give away too much in case you pick up a copy, but what I love about these books is more than just the language and adventure; it is the relationships between the characters. Eddings brings you in and wraps you up in the lives of these friends and adventures. You almost feel like you are there with them: scared in the darks of Ulgo and joyous as the Rivan King returns! Each time I read this epic journey, I am amazed at how much more I get out of the it. It is almost like these adventures helped me grow up and transition through any angsty teenage years into adulthood. I learned vicariously, since I really didn't experience anything through Garion and his trials and tribulations. I know it sounds corny, but when I read them again, it was like reconnecting with a long lost friend and catching up. I am different, and I understand the stories differently.

If you have a book from your past that takes a heroes journey, this librarian recommends picking it up again. Check in with them and see how they read now that you are a bit older and a bit wiser. Reconnect with an old friend; they are just waiting to adventure with you again!

Katie T.
Red Bridge Branch