Sources of light

Here are just some inspirational reads that I've read. From childhood reads, to world history.

The Inheritance cycle by Christopher Paolini

One of the first fantasy series I ever came into contact with. Starting with Eragon, this series introduced me to a world of Dragon Riders and medieval politics and war. Adding to that the fact that the author was only in his early twenties when he had this published and, needless to say, young me was hooked.

The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R Tolkien

No list of fantasy inspirations would be complete without this legendary series. Funnily enough, I was first shown Middle-Earth when I watched the animated film from the seventies. I'm not that old, my parents brought us a copy.

The characters feel as immortal and meaningful as the archetypal adventures they undertake, the world-building is immaculately wonderful and what else can I say- it's Lord of the Rings!

Harry Potter by J. K. Rowling

I remember the other kids at school talking quite religiously about this series, which characters they wanted to be on the playground, which book was their favourite and so on.

So when I got my first copy from my Grandparents, I was eager to crack it open. With it's iconic characters and world-within-a-world environment along with relatable school-life subplots, it was the first YA novel series that I actually enjoyed.

And the last.

Dune by Frank Herbert

This book series was and is what Lord of the Rings is to fantasy. It was, in essence, the godfather of modern science fiction.

Despite it being Science-fiction, Paul Atreides' journey to becoming the chosen one is as archetypal as it gets. Where it differs is the unique worldbuilding, elegiac dialogue and the integration of higher consciousness.

My only word of advice is- be careful with the later books in the series. My head still hurts.