The Rithmatist

By: Brandon Sanderson, Ben McSweeney

Narrated by: Michael Kramer

Length: 10 hrs and 23 mins

Publisher's summary

Audie Award Finalist, Fantasy, 2014

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Brandon Sanderson: his debut novel for the young adult audience

More than anything, Joel wants to be a Rithmatist. Chosen by the Master in a mysterious inception ceremony, Rithmatists have the power to infuse life into two-dimensional figures known as Chalklings. Rithmatists are humanity's only defense against the Wild Chalklings—merciless creatures that leave mangled corpses in their wake. Having nearly overrun the territory of Nebrask, the Wild Chalklings now threaten all of the American Isles.

As the son of a lowly chalkmaker at Armedius Academy, Joel can only watch as Rithmatist students study the magical art that he would do anything to practice. Then students start disappearing—kidnapped from their rooms at night, leaving trails of blood. Assigned to help the professor who is investigating the crimes, Joel and his friend Melody find themselves on the trail of an unexpected discovery—one that will change Rithmatics—and their world—forever.

Bestselling author Brandon Sanderson brings his unique brand of epic storytelling to the teen audience with an engrossing tale of danger and suspense—the first of a series. With his trademark skills in world-building, Sanderson has created a magic system that is so inventive and detailed that that readers who appreciate games of strategy and tactics just may want to bring Rithmatics to life in our world.

A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2013 A New York Times Book Review Notable Children's Book of 2013

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

©2013 Dragonsteel Entertainment, LLC (P)2013 Macmillan Audio

Critic reviews

“Illustrations from McSweeney, fiesty characters, and a complex plot likely to unwind over several volumes, this high-spirited, exciting story will appeal to readers of all ages.” —Publishers Weekly starred review

“The Rithmatist contains some very good surprises on the way to a pleasingly nifty conclusion.” —New York Times Book Review

“Brandon Sanderson has created an ingenious new martial art where the chalk is mightier than the sword. In his alternative, dangerous version of the world, brave young soldiers must battle back dark forces armed with the nerves of a warrior and the skills of an artist. It's a fun read with a unique take on fighting where if you can't draw…you die.” —D.J. MacHale, New York Times bestselling author of Pendragon and SYLO.

Another winner

Brandon Sanderson has done it again. This was a great book that pulled me in from the very beginning. The world building and magic system were both unique. It's intended audience is young adult but I enjoyed it as well.

A good addition

The Rithmatist was a good addition to young adult fiction. Characters that grow and that aren't made dull to fit younger expectations and of course the unfolding of a new kind of magic

So dusting entertaining!

Got this book because it sounded interesting and Brandon Sanderson is an accomplished creator. I was completely into the story from the first few chapters and the magic system was incredibly well done, albeit being just about moving chalk. Loved every second of it!

The narration by Michael Kramer is one of the best I've heard on an audiobook. The voices were all distinct and carried the personality of their characters. Amazing experience that added a lot to an already awesome story.

Great narration; decent story, very well written

What did you love best about The Rithmatist?

The narration was wonderful and the characters were very well developed. I enjoyed the novelty of the chalklings and the rithmatists. I did find myself reminded quite a bit of Harry Potter from time to time, but not just in a stylistic way; more like ideas were borrowed from HP, and I was a bit annoyed with that.

What was the most interesting aspect of this story? The least interesting?

The idea of Rhithmatics being linked to the main religious organization was very interesting, as well as the chalklings and how they came to life. I didn’t particularly like the manner in which places were named. Not because it wasn’t creative or interesting, but because the author clearly named them after states in the U.S., but gives no explanation as to how the states got this way or whether this might just be an alternate reality from ours. The names jump out at you as you listen, but there is never any reasoning given.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Noz

Great Storytelling

Brandon Sanderson continues to amaze and thrill me with his fabulous portrayal of fantasy and science fiction worlds. The character building is phenomenal and makes you truly feel connected to many of the people involved. Twists and turns are always surprising and sometimes perfectly rewarding when I had an inkling of the outcome and it turned out to be correct! I’m definitely a fan of Sanderson’s works after having read Skyward a year ago and now The Rithmatist. Can’t wait to dive into another. Also, excellent reading in this audible book.

Chalk Wars

Loved this novel so much!!! Hoping that the sequel will be released sooner than later. Looking forward to other titles by Sanderson.

Crisp and satisfying

This author has all the goods, and manages to keep them fresh. Too often, writers let their produce spoil to become flat. These charaters are fresh and crisp; al dente to the reader's palate. An altogether tasty read.

My favorite author

Another fantastic Sanderson novel. This is a great book to share with your kids, especially if you fancy Harry Potter type stories.

Excellent performance and compelling stort

Sanderson never fails to amaze! This is a unique and fascinating story. Performance is excellent and it's hard to. Put down. If you only have the audible version, you can find the diagrams on Pinterest.

Captivating!

Just the brilliance expected from Mr. Sanderson!
I have enjoyed every story from Mr. Sanderson so far....
His story telling capabilities never fail to amaze me!