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.

Making Geometry Interesting

I recently took a trip that lasted 11 hours. This book filled that time with a great story.

Fantastic!

It is short, and for a younger audience, but that doesnt stop it from being a great story in a fun setting.

sequel please

loved it, but really leaves you wanting more. this book NEEDS a sequel. also good narrator.

amazing

i loved it. really hope he come out with another one. great job Brandon.

Another Good One

I will admit upfront that I like Sanderson’s book. And, The Rithmatist is no exception. Creative and fun. The ending was particularly good (and leaves open the obvious sequel….one day). Definitely worth the listen on Audible.

Sanderson strikes again

Amazing I loved every second of this book. At first I was hesitant, I don’t normally like fantasy books set in our world ( Harry Potter excluded) but this book stole my heart. Sanderson has done it again. He continues to write breathtaking stories. Also let’s not overlook Michael Kramers amazing performance. I don’t know if this is weird but Kramers voice is just so soothing. Yes this book is 10/10 100% amazing. Looking forward to the sequel!

Excellent Worldbuilding.

Based in a Clockwork/Steampunkish alternative World, Brandon Sandwrson has a gift for introducing the world naturally and within the confines of the story. The magic system is based in chalk and is a little odd at first but I appreciate it. The one thing is the way the "non-magicians" in this world deal with the threat seems a little unimaginative seeing the wonders of technology they show throughtlout the story. I would love a sequel to this book and more novels based in this World.

Wonderful

I didn't realuze till I finished it but this book ends with far more to tell but has not sequel and I doubt there will ever be one. But you should absolutely give it a listen. The world, story, characters, mystery, and breadcrumbs of clues are amazing.

ik

loved the characters but the storyline was just ok. I would recommend to the average listener.

Wow, incredibly unique story

I have read a lot of Brandon Sanderson books and know most have unique elements and magic systems. This one was particularly interesting. I had meant to read this for a while and finally chose for do the Audiobook while driving and really enjoyed it. I just hope the story continues soon. The narrator was also great and really represented the characters extremely well from my perspective.