01 Jun Book Review of Origins of The Wheel of Time: The Legends and Mythologi…
Book Review: Origins of The Wheel of Time: The Legends and Mythologies
From the moment I pressed play on the audiobook of Origins of The Wheel of Time: The Legends and Mythologies, I was transported into a world I thought I knew intimately. Authored by Michael Livingston, this exploration of Robert Jordan’s groundbreaking series was a treat for any fan, every bit as spellbinding as the original novels. I found myself hanging on every word, so much so that before I finished, I was already Googling where to buy a physical copy to keep close at hand. Spoiler: I found one on sale, and experienced the miracle of one-day shipping—delivered faster than you can say “Ta’veren!”
One line in particular took me by surprise and sparked an unexpected joy: it referred to the Sea Folk being inspired by the Polynesians, specifically the Māori. In the audiobook, Kate Reading pronounced “Māori” flawlessly, eschewing the common mispronunciation. In the physical copy, the phrasing was slightly altered but resonated with the same sentiment. I was simply astounded—this kind of representation and respect matters immensely. As someone living in New Zealand, it filled me with pride to see the Māori recognized as a unique culture within the broader Polynesian family. The accent mark on the “ā” also didn’t go unnoticed; it’s these small, respectful touches that reaffirm the importance of representation in literature.
The book beautifully underscores the intertwining of cultures, legends, and mythologies that inspired Jordan. What surprised me was how often biblical and Christian themes wove into his narrative fabric. While it might be expected given Jordan’s background, the parallels he draws seem to echo C.S. Lewis more than J.R.R. Tolkien. While Tolkien created a vast world steeped in lore, Jordan boldly merges his spiritual insights into the very fabric of his storytelling. It’s a refreshing scholarly perspective that adds layers to both Jordan’s work and to fantasy literature as a whole.
Livingston may not be Jordan himself, but he captures the spirit of the series well. His passion shines through in the meticulous synthesis of notes, letters, and insights from various sources. The pacing flows seamlessly—both informative and engaging—making it difficult to put down.
For anyone who has ever lost themselves in the intricate tapestry of The Wheel of Time universe, this book is a must-read. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer curious about the lore, Origins of The Wheel of Time is a gem that adds depth to your understanding of the series. It’s a testament to how literature can reflect our realities while grounding us in cultural histories.
In closing, I wholeheartedly recommend this book to fans of fantasy, history enthusiasts, and those who appreciate a nuanced exploration of storytelling. It reminded me of why I fell in love with the genre in the first place—its capacity to connect diverse cultures and inspire a sense of kinship that transcends time and space. In the grand narrative of my reading journey, this book marked a delightful detour, filled with rich insights that I’ll carry with me long after the final page is turned.
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