Five years ago I received the book The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss for my birthday. I tried starting it but it was a bit dense for me, and I didn't have the time to get through it without losing the plot in between reads. With all the more time spent at home, I finally got that opportunity this summer!
The Name of the Wind follows a legendary man named Kvothe. In a medieval world, he has retired as an innkeeper in a small town. When the Chronicler stumbles upon him, Kvothe agrees to tell him the story of his life. During the first day of the tale, Kvothe goes over his childhood with his parent's traveling troupe, the streets of Tarbean, and his induction to the esteemed University. The saga is split by interludes back at the inn with present-day Kvothe.
For an epic fantasy at over 700 pages, I wasn't expecting it to be so funny! It was such a wonderful mix of magic and lighthearted humor. This helped balance the heavy descriptions and trials that Kvothe encounters. Although it's always fun to find one of those un-put-downable books that you run through in one sitting, Kvothe was right that his tale cannot be rushed, as "a real story takes time to prepare".
The world-building was also spectacular. Kvothe learns the magic called sympathy through a beloved tutor and eventually from the masters at the University. He possesses great natural skill but grows his talents through a hodgepodge of exploits. Following the lore of the malevolent Chandrian, Kvothe delves into many of the far reaches of the Civilization. Through this, readers are exposed to a magnificent, medieval-style land.
This journey is one any lover of fantasy should embark on. It was magical, meaningful, and a joy to be submersed in.
I only know one story. But oftentimes small pieces seem to be stories themselves.
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