Eldest Book II

** 4.5 stars ** // I just love the world we get to see in Eragon! The many different creatures and legends have an even bigger part in book two and I enjoyed the portrayal of the various cultures and their differences because it was done with so much dignity and respect.They all have their strengths and weaknesses and we get to see both without placing one folk above the other. We also get to join Eragon and Saphira in their training with the elves which is very insightful. The information on the way magic works, on Galbatorix, etc. is delivered in a exciting way to the reader. There’s still so much we don’t know, and I’m excited to find out even more (how bad is it, that I hardly remember anything from book 3 and 4?) Additionally, Eragon’s development is still one of the things that stick out to me the most in regards to authenticity. Even though he is 'the chosen one' he struggles with stuff. He still has to learn and grow. And he falters and fails at times which is exactly why I enjoy this part of the story so much. Ultimately, there were a few minor things that bothered me a bit and I thought it to be a bit long-winded and wordy at some places – mostly the parts with Roran. I felt like they were a bit too detailed, but then again, they might be important for the rest of the story, I honestly can’t remember anymore. Yet, just as with the first book in this series, the nostalgia makes it such an enjoyable read, and I can’t wait to get on with book no. 3. One of my favourite quotes: "A negative outlook is more of a handicap than any physical injury."(Though I like the German translation better with this specific quote, tbh :))