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A legion of books have attempted to evoke the horrors of the Second World War, but in this concise and perfectly honed novel, all of the effects that John Boyne creates are allowed to make a maximum impact in a relatively understated fashion (given the enormity of the situation here). The Boy in Striped Pyjamas is also that rare thing: a novel which can affect both children and adults equally; a worthy successor, in fact, to such masterpieces as To Kill a Mockingbird and The Catcher in the Rye -- both, of course, books, dealing (as does this one) with the loss of innocence. --Barry Forshaw
Boy in the striped Pyjamas, 2008-11-13
Unfortunatley, I have not been gifted with the best imagination and therefore often lose interest in many books I read. Not in this case I could not put it down. I loved it from page one. It was written so brilliantly through the eyes of this innocent young boy and yet leaving you under no illusions as to what exactly is going on. I have already passed it on to 3 of my friends who have all loved it as much as I have. Definately the best book I have read. Best read without finding out any information on the book or storyline allowing you to take this journey with Bruno with no preconceptions. The Film based on the book recently released comes nowhere close to the greatness of this book, do not see it first!

After the massive, punishing battle against the Warriors of the Empire, Eragon and Saphira are licking their wounds, having barely survived. The Rider and his dragon have an oath to fulfil; they must aid Katrina in escaping the most terrible danger. What follows is an epic journey, quite as action-packed and vividly described as anything in fantasy fiction. As in all the best such literature, the odds are overwhelming, nothing can be taken at face value, and the evil forces ranged against the protagonists are as vile as one could wish.

Christopher Paolini clearly now feels that he has readers securely in his pocket, and is prepared to take his time to achieve some of his best effects -- a tactic that pays dividends. So often with fantasy fiction, outlandish situations are relied upon to carry the action, and there is no shortage of them here. But Paolini is canny enough to realise that the characterisation of an endangered protagonist is crucial to maintain our involvement, and (as in previous books), he always takes care of business in this regard. Don't be put off by the daunting length of this book -- Paolini justifies every word in Brisingr. You'll find yourself reading it as quickly as many a shorter book. --Barry Forshaw
Brisingr, 2008-11-17
My 9 year old son and I have LOVED this series and can't wait for the fourth and final book. We both wish we could be dragon riders and are totally captivated by the relationship between Eragon and Saphira. The story can be a bit gruesome at times, but it is also touching and funny as well as exciting and totally un-put-downable! We recommend it!