When Jordan's pace started slowing (the wait for Winter's Heart felt interminable), I decided to wait on the rest of the series until he was finished (internet spoilers weren't as big a thing then). When he passed away before finishing the series, I gave up on it and sold my collection (paperbacks, up to Winter's Heart). Many years later, my wife and I were talking about our mutual love for fantasy novels, and I realized how important and foundational this series was to me, and really lamented selling off my collection. Then, for my birthday, she surprises me with the entire. frickin'. series. She had scoured all the local used bookstores and managed to acquire every single book. It remains the best gift I've ever received.
Wives can be wonderful. One must take care in finding one that is sweet, kind, loving, and considerate. When you find her, take great care and treat her in kind.
I wish the writers at Amazon would have read the books before making the show. It should have been the easiest writing. 90% of the books was him explaining how everyone and everything looked down to the buttons on there coat. I would go on and on with my wife or anyone who would listen how good it was. When it came out I just sat there and cussed while my wife laughed at me
I always felt kinda bad because my grandma got me a copy of Winter's Heart when I was in middle school. She just saw it on the shelf and thought I'd love it. Having NOT read the eight preceding books, it languished on my shelf until my mom eventually moved out of that house we were living in, and I have no idea where the copy ended up. Well...currently reading the series now and I love it. Haven't made it to Winter's Heart yet, but I'm kinda excited because it's a memory I'll always have of my grandma
I'm so glad I finally listened to this series this last year, motivated by my brother, you, and the show coming out. It is absolutely one of my all time favorites now. Tai'shar Goblin Horde!
"The Wheel of Time turns, and Ages come and pass, leaving memories that become legend. Legend fades to myth, and even myth is long forgotten when the Age that gave it birth comes again." You forgot this
A Song of Ice and Fire was my first fantasy read as an adult. After I finished the published books, I scoured the internet for something similar. My next read was the Wheel of Time. I absolutely loved it. Read the series in about 18 months prior to the show coming out. I was underwhelmed by the show but will give season 2 a chance. I’ve since moved on to reading other fantasy series. I will revisit this series one day. It was such a beautiful journey, regardless of any flaws.
I was also VERY disappointed/underwhelmed by the TV series, after being SO excited to see it. I'm going to watch season 2, but I have little hope for it.
@@AshlieJermaine I’m giving it a chance hoping that they heard the feedback from the fans. Also they won’t have COVID interfering with the production this time. If they mess up the adaptation of The Great Hunt I’m out though!
I'm on my first Wheel of Time reread after finishing the series in July, and I'm about 75% through book two and oh my goodness catching all the foreshadowing and being able to watch certain characters I didn't know we're going to be that important is so amazing. When I heard your videos and you talk about the rereadability of this series I was like no way am I going to want to reread it and then as soon as I finish last book I wanted to reread it.
LOL, I know the feeling - I started the books after watching the TV show and after finishing the books I just couldn't get away from that world. As Daniel says, a place of safety and a refuge. So I'm on my first reread now, also book two, about 80%, and enjoying finding all those crumbs laid along the way and making connections that I overlooked on first read.
@@tylinspiglet4676 same here, paused after 6 though and reread 1-4 before continuing, and am now on amol, was hoping season 2 would drop before i finished rip
All I have to say is Thank You Daniel Greene for getting me to read the Wheel of Time over a year ago. That series truly is a life changing read for anyone who undertakes it and I never would have read it if I never discovered your channel!
Love the shoutout to your mum. I know my family supported my weird reading habit and I'm so thankful for that. It hurts my heart that not everyone has parents who can or would do this. Awesome parents deserve all praise ^^ WoT is one of my comfort reads too, though not one I acquired until my 20s. (my childhood comfort reads are Pratchett and McCaffrey)
I can still vividly remember how exponentially things began to rise and rise and rise during the last 100 pages of The Great Hunt. Plots kept coming back together, reveals were shown, action was mounting, and this over arching sense of chaos was like a wave that kept rising until the final climactic finish. The Eye of The World was a great book to introduce the series to me, but, The Great Hunt and it's final act will forever mark the point where I knew this was going to be a series I'd treasure.
Hearing you say you dived into Wheel of Time to help you escape childhood trauma touched me 💞 Harry Potter and Percy Jackson were those series for me. It feels like if those characters hold your hands and walk you through those traumas, making you stronger and more resilient at the other end 💞 Even now, so many years later, when something severely depressing happens, I want to go back to HP & PJO because they feel warm and cozy.
Omg I thought it was just me, I'm 35 and I have been reading Harry Potter since I was 12 whenever my life gets overwhelmed or I feel any stress or worry I reread HP. I have chapters from all the books that just pick me up. So happy to know I'm not a weirdo and these characters give others what they give me.
I picked up the audiobooks thanks to you Daniel. I can’t thank you enough! Just finished “the shadow rising” and having an absolute blast with the series
i read the wheel of time from summer 2021 until june of this year and i loved it!! thank you for putting me on this series daniel, it’ll always be one of my absolute favorites
I remember as soon as I heard Brandon Sanderson was going to finish the Wheel of Time, I immediately went and bought the books he had published up to that point, so I could get a sense of whether or not I thought he would be a good choice. I expect Sanderson would have become a big name eventually no matter what, but getting the opportunity to finish the most popular fantasy series in the world at the time, greatly accelerated his rise to prominence.
Your channel was what got me into wheel of time and I’m extremely grateful for that. I’ve never had a piece of literature effect me quite as much as this series did and it genuinely changed my outlook on life. Highly recommend for anyone thinking about starting it
My brother gave me his wheel of time books when I was 10. After quickly reading the 6 books the next 20 years of my life could be divided into reading WoT or waiting for the next one. This series is fundamental to me as a person. I was already aware of Sanderson when he was announced so I knew he had the chops. I also knew he was personally selected by Jordan's editor and wife (Daniel failed to mention she was his editor which is important because she was intimately familiar with the direction and atmosphere of the series). So I had hope that it would be good. I never expected how good the last battle would be though.
My first WOT book was New Spring, which I picked up at the local bookstore. I loved it, and was delighted to learn that it was part of a larger series. I soon found myself immersed in a world that was the first to challenge LOTR as my favorite series.
I remember coming across The Dragon Reborn as a paperback in the grocery checkout line. My mom was always encouraging me to read so she bought it for me and I fell in love with the series so much that it and the previous two books were all I wanted for Christmas that year. Mom called the bookstores and couldn't find any copies of the Eye of the World so she had it special ordered. It was a great childhood memory that I haven't thought about that in years. Thank you for sharing yours.
@@gilian2587 Not that bad, as I remember, but I was a kid at the time. As an entry point Dragon Reborn jumped me into the action and hooked me pretty quick whereas going backwards Eye of the World felt more of a slog and remains one of my personal least favorites in the series.
That final story about finding Winter's Heart was super wholesome. My mom loves books, and instilled that in my siblings and I, but it got to the point where we would get in trouble for staying up too late reading lol.
I grew up in a household where my mom and alll 4 siblings that are older than me had read the books. I heard them talking about aes sedai, and bonding and all this stuff. It really became such a fun way to spend time and conversation with my family. My younger sister read the books eventually too. ❤
Still my favourite series on any media format. Fully agree with your statement on re-readability. Miracle that Sanderson was able to finish it so well too, only really had one issue with those and that was the changes to Matt's character (though Brandon's version was still a good character).
Thanks Daniel, 14 months ago i started with Eye of the world. Today i just finished A memory of light. Loved every book and surely would re read them in the future. Thanks for introducing me to this amazing series. Will be forever in your debt man. Greetings from Argentina.
I went through Wheel of Time on audiobook this year. I started with New Spring in December and ended A Memory of Light in June. What a great ride it was.
Numbers Sources: Wordcount: wot.fandom.com/wiki/Statistical_analysis Audiobook length: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Wheel_of_Time (word counts here inaccurate) I went with an inaccurate word count at first but found a better one late in editing. Hence the random change in mic for the word count numbers.
I started this masterpiece of a series in January of 2022, hesitant to commit to such a massive series. In part thanks to Daniel, I was daydreaming about scenes from Lord of Chaos in March during school. I finished the series in September, and was simply shocked and overwhelmed when I finished it. It was a 15/10 ride, I’d recommend it to anyone.
The "slog" is one of the best parts when you reread it, because all of the scenes that feel like they are dragging on in the first read through are full of really subtle foreshadowing and character development that you missed the first read through.
I'm on book 11, and man, it's so satisfying seeing all the books come by I've already read and just how much that already is Also, it really put a smile on my face to hear you talk about WoT again :)
as someone who grew up dyslexic, I never really realized how much my mother would encourage me to read whenever I showed any interest in it. She used to stop by the library almost everyday to make sure I had a new book ready because when I was younger I was going through books so fast (i was reading a series of unfortunate events and the magic tree house in like the fifth grade so i was zooming through these). Hearng your story reminded me of that , thanks!
Great Hunt - Dragon Reborn - Shadow Rising is one of my favorite 3 book stretches. You get main perspectives and storylines from almost all the different characters, each book has its own kind of tone and flow. Whenever I think WoT i think of that 3 book stretch.
I started reading the series August of 2021 and I'm currently on book 12 and I've fallen in love with this series. Your summary videos have helped me remember key details. I'm getting emotional that I'm about to end the series. Thanks for all your helpful videos! As a new member of this fandom I'm so grateful. ☺️
I used to work a job that involved a lot of long driving hours and walking around outdoors by myself, The Wheel of Time audiobooks kept me company and helped maintain my sanity on long trips and long days. Probably listened all the way through 3 or four times, they will always be close to my heart
I discovered this series in 1998 when I randomly found The Eye of the World in a bookstore and thought the cover looked cool. Like you Daniel, this series has been my refuge from all of life's stresses and I re-read it once every couple of years. It is, by far, my favorite series ever and feels like a second home to me. Thanks for breaking it down. I vote for The Dark Tower as the next breakdown video!
I found these books thanks to the series, and thanks to that I found your channel, I'm on book 3 and already bought the fourth one, absolutely in love with it, thaaaaank you for all the content!!!!!💚💚💚💚💚💚
This is the best breakdown yet. Definitely seems like you've taken a lot of the feedback. It also helps that this is your favourite series. But I like getting little tidbits about the books as you go. And the audiobook info was a nice touch (that's how I read them all - long live Michael Kramer and Kate Reading)
The foreshadowing. You said it there. I so want to include it in my books, but I have to remember, Jordan was only scratching the surface in book one. I have book two, to include more. But then to do something different, when he threw so much in his fifteen books, is challenging.
This book series was inspirational to me growing up. I distinctly remember taking the train to school and seeing the occasional person reading it. A wink and a nod and I knew that there was a fellow WoTer, someone like me around. It is just so nice to hear someone articulate how important this series has been for so many people. Thank you.
I’ve read the entire series 4 or 5 times. I’ve listened to the Audiobooks somewhere in the 15 to 20 times bracket. Before I retired I had a job where I could listen to Audiobooks almost the entire time I worked. One time I listened to the entire series 3 times back to back.
Oh man - your comment about Wheel of Time being your comfort series to retreat to hit me right in the memories - for me I started in high school, paused my rereads when I went to uni, and then picked it back up afterwards, when I was going through a really rough spot. I dunno why, but this series just does it for me :) Great video as always!
I'd like to throw in a little something about the slog: Having been in my seventh year of my history teacher degree when reading the alleged "slog" I never felt it. I think I never noticed it because at that point I was so used to things being way more complex than the surface analysis suggests that I was really *happy* about what feels like hundreds of chapters on the (no spoilers) * * * * * * * succession crisis because it makes this series feel *so* much more like history. Best regards Raoul G. Kunz
Hi DG, I am by no means a huge Wheel of time fan and there are a number of things I really don't like about it. However ever since I finished it a couple of months ago, I have been missing it. I have a time set aside for audio book listening and have on occasion found my-self wishing I was still in the wheel of time world. For me the series saw me through all of the lockdowns we had during the pandemic. It's certainly not my favourite series but I cannot deny the impact it has had on me.
Thank you for doing this. I really love the series, and I still remember being downrange and finding out AMoL had dropped from one of the Aussies stationed there.
Great breakdown! I already started Eye of the World recently before this video was released. And yes, this is my FIRST reading of WoT. Anyway TIL: I was only 3 days old when Eye of the World released. That's actually kinda neat
I kinda envy you spending your childhood with this series. I just started reading it for the first time at 27. Probably won't dethrone Malazan from my number 1 spot, but it is really great and enjoyable series.
A friend of mine, about 20 some years ago, recommended The Wheel of Time to me. I read it and I liked, but, I was not ready at that time to take on a series of that length. Fast forward to today and now the entire series is on my TBR. Looking forward to reading it when it bubbles up the list. For me it's amazing how much my taste has changed over the years since.
I just finished book 4 and, for the third time since starting the series, immediately wanted to jump into the next. I'm trying to hold firm to reading a different book between each so I don't burn out, so it'll be a few years before I finish, but I'm absolutely loving the series so far.
It took me 11months as a long distance truck driver to listen to the audiobooks. (Only in freeway driving with "not snow") when i was done...i went for Harry P. Listen to 4 and a half books in a week... I was kinda disappointed🤣. But man did i cry and wanted another WoT book. Just to see how they was doing, what they had for breakfast lol. Anything. 1year of my life immersed in that world 🥰
I was thinking about this yesterday; for me probably the thing that makes it the most special and unlike anything else I've read is how you get the fully traditional heroic quest, magic sword, chosen one, mystical enchantress, ancient relics, inscrutable prophecy stuff woven into what could otherwise be - some of the flashier examples of magic aside - a work of early-renaissance-themed literary fiction. These books follow the lives, loves, and personal and political intrigues of a huge cast of characters as they live through a time of conflict and upheaval. It's just that the 'conflict and upheaval' in this case involves an actual cosmic evil and provides the motivating force for the heroic quest which forms the centre of the main plot.
After years of reading I finished the series last week. I'm so happy a friend recommended it to me and have enjoyed watching your video's. Can't wait to start my reread.
Pretty well timed, considering the panel at NYC Comic Con today. First time hearing Elayne's actor and Mat's new actor talking about the show in a formal setting to my knowledge. Also, I am just gonna ignore any "show is bad and I'm not gonna elaborate on why and just toss insults/life-drainers at you" comments so you might as well not bother.
Its funny how you inspired me to pick this series up, but it wasnt until monday of this week that i actually started. Then this video comes out on the day that books 1-3 arrive at my door. Thank you so much for the recommendation. I'm loving The Eye of the World and will hopefully continue to enjoy whats in store for me.
I finally finished this amazing journey last month and I've been starving for more WoT content from you since your channel is what inspired me to start!
I would love if Daniel did a Alt Shift X's Dune or GoT series style videos explaining / summarizing the WoT book series or interesting aspects of its themes or world building, that would probably draw so many new fans to the books who find a 14 book series intimidating to jump into
Wonderful breakdown, as always! I personally have some issues with the books Sanderson wrote, but obviously he wasn't RJ. Overall I think he was a great choice and am grateful for him doing so.
Eagerly anticipating you continuing the read along if you get a second wind for it! I'm currently on Book 10 for my first time reading and your analysis and assurance it gets better in Book 11 is the only thing keeping me going. I definitely agree that when I reread the series, I'll get more out of it.
Wheel of Time single-handedly rekindled my love for fantasy, I simply couldn’t stop once I started. The hints and clues Robert drops kept me diving back in for more. Currently working through Brandon Sanderson’s work because of how impressive his finale was. Pick it up if you haven’t
Loved this series since 95, also grew up with it playing a huge part in my formative years. As always, love any WoT content you deliver. It's always great and I appreciate your work.
I may have some complaints about the show but all I can say is look at it as an alternate telling of the wheel, you just didn't see a portal stone being used.
I'm starting book 5 next week alongside a friend of mine! We're both loving the series so far, although he was more put of by the length of 4 than I was. It's so cozy while also being very exciting and new.
I have never read any of the Wheel of Time books. BUT, after watching all your content on it, I think I'm going to give it a try. I find books like this to just feel so intimidating.
I am going through the series now and am definitely enjoying it and wish I had read it before. That being said I don't sadly find it as flawless as some do. It fits in at an interesting transitional period of time for the fantasy genre and is a product of that I think.
Wheel of Time was how my parents got me to read as well. I got the first three - or rather six books since they split those big boys apart in my native language- at christmas when I was 8 and I devoured them over the winter break. From then on the new books were my go-to christmas or birthday presents whenever they came out. And then in seventh grade they switched me over to the english originals when bought me the Crown of Swords paperback which had just gotten published to supplement my english skills because I was doing poorly with the subject at school. I must admit it worked.
It was weird you mentioned getting emotional. I dont know why, but this simple breakdown of the logistics of each book had me emotional as well. This series is a Pillar of my life , just as it is for many others.
When I first found the eye of the world and fall into this story I had no idea how well know it was. I wasn't on any social media or involved in the fantasy world at all. It's the second fantasy series I ever read. First being The Chronicles of Narnia as a kid. When I was done I got involved online as a way to find more fantasy books I'm the only reader in my family. I remember being amazed at all the Wheel of Time content. In a way it was wonderful. In a different way I lost the idea that it was my very own hidden gem
I'm in book 9 and although I'm not loving the absence of Mat or what's going on with Perrin, I loved how things have turned when Rand finally "talks" to Elyane. For all the talk of the slog I'm getting through Winter's Heart faster than most books in the series so far..
What series would you like to see done next??
Mistborn Era 1!
Malazan?
Did you ever finish all of Robin Hobb?
Wheel of Time 😜
One of the John Gwyne series
When Jordan's pace started slowing (the wait for Winter's Heart felt interminable), I decided to wait on the rest of the series until he was finished (internet spoilers weren't as big a thing then). When he passed away before finishing the series, I gave up on it and sold my collection (paperbacks, up to Winter's Heart). Many years later, my wife and I were talking about our mutual love for fantasy novels, and I realized how important and foundational this series was to me, and really lamented selling off my collection. Then, for my birthday, she surprises me with the entire. frickin'. series. She had scoured all the local used bookstores and managed to acquire every single book. It remains the best gift I've ever received.
That's love 🥰
Damn bro, treat her right that's amazing
Wives can be wonderful. One must take care in finding one that is sweet, kind, loving, and considerate. When you find her, take great care and treat her in kind.
Tim, you’ve found a diamond and if you mistreat her I speak for the goblin horde when I say that we will come after you 😂
Fuck yeah!!!!
Memory of Light is one of the best endings to a fantasy series ever. Landings are so hard to stick, but Sanderson did it here, in a very rare fashion.
I personally think my favourite book in the series has to be The Gathering Storm. Watching Rand finally break and his journey to healing was amazing.
I wish the writers at Amazon would have read the books before making the show. It should have been the easiest writing. 90% of the books was him explaining how everyone and everything looked down to the buttons on there coat. I would go on and on with my wife or anyone who would listen how good it was. When it came out I just sat there and cussed while my wife laughed at me
The show was all about Moiraine and like.. a naked lesbian Moiraine? No interest
I always felt kinda bad because my grandma got me a copy of Winter's Heart when I was in middle school. She just saw it on the shelf and thought I'd love it. Having NOT read the eight preceding books, it languished on my shelf until my mom eventually moved out of that house we were living in, and I have no idea where the copy ended up.
Well...currently reading the series now and I love it. Haven't made it to Winter's Heart yet, but I'm kinda excited because it's a memory I'll always have of my grandma
We knew this was coming. The prophesy has been fulfilled
*prophecy
🙂👨🎓
🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳
The prophecy, behold it's true.
My brain has been so twisted by the internet I read that as "prophussy"
@@priceyblackwinter2338 you right
I'm so glad I finally listened to this series this last year, motivated by my brother, you, and the show coming out. It is absolutely one of my all time favorites now. Tai'shar Goblin Horde!
"In one Age, called the Third Age by some, an Age yet to come, an Age long past, a wind rose in the Mountains of Mist."
Thank you Daniel.
The wind was not the beginning. There are neither beginnings nor endings to the Wheel of Time. But it was a beginning.
@@SirZeu a beginning of one of the best stories ever told.
"The Wheel of Time turns, and Ages come and pass, leaving memories that become legend. Legend fades to myth, and even myth is long forgotten when the Age that gave it birth comes again."
You forgot this
@@Bt-cq6te never will...😝 just omitted it
haha too good
A Song of Ice and Fire was my first fantasy read as an adult. After I finished the published books, I scoured the internet for something similar. My next read was the Wheel of Time. I absolutely loved it. Read the series in about 18 months prior to the show coming out. I was underwhelmed by the show but will give season 2 a chance. I’ve since moved on to reading other fantasy series. I will revisit this series one day. It was such a beautiful journey, regardless of any flaws.
Same!!!
I was also VERY disappointed/underwhelmed by the TV series, after being SO excited to see it. I'm going to watch season 2, but I have little hope for it.
@@AshlieJermaine I’m giving it a chance hoping that they heard the feedback from the fans. Also they won’t have COVID interfering with the production this time. If they mess up the adaptation of The Great Hunt I’m out though!
If u want another series that's as complex and maybe more epic than both those series, check out Malazan Book of the Fallen.
Season 2 of the show is so far much better than the first.
I'm on my first Wheel of Time reread after finishing the series in July, and I'm about 75% through book two and oh my goodness catching all the foreshadowing and being able to watch certain characters I didn't know we're going to be that important is so amazing. When I heard your videos and you talk about the rereadability of this series I was like no way am I going to want to reread it and then as soon as I finish last book I wanted to reread it.
LOL, I know the feeling - I started the books after watching the TV show and after finishing the books I just couldn't get away from that world. As Daniel says, a place of safety and a refuge. So I'm on my first reread now, also book two, about 80%, and enjoying finding all those crumbs laid along the way and making connections that I overlooked on first read.
i reread amol like twice b4 starting my full reread lol,but i still cant fully understand it after those rereads
@@tylinspiglet4676 yes! After finishing it the first time I had so many other books on my tbr but nothing is like wheel of time
@@Bt-cq6te 😅 I can imagine. I listened on audio and went back a bunch as I was reading it because I was like wait... What just happened?!
@@tylinspiglet4676 same here, paused after 6 though and reread 1-4 before continuing, and am now on amol, was hoping season 2 would drop before i finished rip
All I have to say is Thank You Daniel Greene for getting me to read the Wheel of Time over a year ago. That series truly is a life changing read for anyone who undertakes it and I never would have read it if I never discovered your channel!
Love the shoutout to your mum.
I know my family supported my weird reading habit and I'm so thankful for that. It hurts my heart that not everyone has parents who can or would do this. Awesome parents deserve all praise ^^
WoT is one of my comfort reads too, though not one I acquired until my 20s. (my childhood comfort reads are Pratchett and McCaffrey)
"All right Robert we've got an island full of all-powerful magical women, anything special you want to do with it?"
"Hold my beer."
I can still vividly remember how exponentially things began to rise and rise and rise during the last 100 pages of The Great Hunt. Plots kept coming back together, reveals were shown, action was mounting, and this over arching sense of chaos was like a wave that kept rising until the final climactic finish. The Eye of The World was a great book to introduce the series to me, but, The Great Hunt and it's final act will forever mark the point where I knew this was going to be a series I'd treasure.
Hearing you say you dived into Wheel of Time to help you escape childhood trauma touched me 💞 Harry Potter and Percy Jackson were those series for me. It feels like if those characters hold your hands and walk you through those traumas, making you stronger and more resilient at the other end 💞 Even now, so many years later, when something severely depressing happens, I want to go back to HP & PJO because they feel warm and cozy.
I wonder how many of us share that story of finding the same outlet in our troubled pasts! I certainly do.
Omg I thought it was just me, I'm 35 and I have been reading Harry Potter since I was 12 whenever my life gets overwhelmed or I feel any stress or worry I reread HP. I have chapters from all the books that just pick me up. So happy to know I'm not a weirdo and these characters give others what they give me.
I picked up the audiobooks thanks to you Daniel. I can’t thank you enough! Just finished “the shadow rising” and having an absolute blast with the series
SAME ASF, I started after binging the show, found Daniel's channel and have been addicted ever since
i read the wheel of time from summer 2021 until june of this year and i loved it!! thank you for putting me on this series daniel, it’ll always be one of my absolute favorites
You shine when you relate to us how books transform your life and your opinions on certain topics.
ADVERSARY! I wholeheartedly accept this WoT content
I remember as soon as I heard Brandon Sanderson was going to finish the Wheel of Time, I immediately went and bought the books he had published up to that point, so I could get a sense of whether or not I thought he would be a good choice. I expect Sanderson would have become a big name eventually no matter what, but getting the opportunity to finish the most popular fantasy series in the world at the time, greatly accelerated his rise to prominence.
Your channel was what got me into wheel of time and I’m extremely grateful for that. I’ve never had a piece of literature effect me quite as much as this series did and it genuinely changed my outlook on life. Highly recommend for anyone thinking about starting it
My brother gave me his wheel of time books when I was 10. After quickly reading the 6 books the next 20 years of my life could be divided into reading WoT or waiting for the next one. This series is fundamental to me as a person.
I was already aware of Sanderson when he was announced so I knew he had the chops. I also knew he was personally selected by Jordan's editor and wife (Daniel failed to mention she was his editor which is important because she was intimately familiar with the direction and atmosphere of the series). So I had hope that it would be good. I never expected how good the last battle would be though.
My first WOT book was New Spring, which I picked up at the local bookstore. I loved it, and was delighted to learn that it was part of a larger series. I soon found myself immersed in a world that was the first to challenge LOTR as my favorite series.
I remember coming across The Dragon Reborn as a paperback in the grocery checkout line. My mom was always encouraging me to read so she bought it for me and I fell in love with the series so much that it and the previous two books were all I wanted for Christmas that year. Mom called the bookstores and couldn't find any copies of the Eye of the World so she had it special ordered. It was a great childhood memory that I haven't thought about that in years. Thank you for sharing yours.
Lol, how confusing was it starting on the third book?
@@gilian2587 Not that bad, as I remember, but I was a kid at the time. As an entry point Dragon Reborn jumped me into the action and hooked me pretty quick whereas going backwards Eye of the World felt more of a slog and remains one of my personal least favorites in the series.
That final story about finding Winter's Heart was super wholesome. My mom loves books, and instilled that in my siblings and I, but it got to the point where we would get in trouble for staying up too late reading lol.
I grew up in a household where my mom and alll 4 siblings that are older than me had read the books. I heard them talking about aes sedai, and bonding and all this stuff. It really became such a fun way to spend time and conversation with my family. My younger sister read the books eventually too. ❤
Still my favourite series on any media format. Fully agree with your statement on re-readability. Miracle that Sanderson was able to finish it so well too, only really had one issue with those and that was the changes to Matt's character (though Brandon's version was still a good character).
Sanderson has said that Mat was especially difficult and he probably didn't do him justice.
Thanks Daniel, 14 months ago i started with Eye of the world. Today i just finished A memory of light. Loved every book and surely would re read them in the future. Thanks for introducing me to this amazing series. Will be forever in your debt man. Greetings from Argentina.
I went through Wheel of Time on audiobook this year. I started with New Spring in December and ended A Memory of Light in June. What a great ride it was.
I will always love this series so much. Thank you for the breakdown! I'll be sharing it with people just starting the series!
Every single one of your videos offers something new to me. Thanks for sharing your passion!
Numbers Sources:
Wordcount: wot.fandom.com/wiki/Statistical_analysis
Audiobook length: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Wheel_of_Time (word counts here inaccurate)
I went with an inaccurate word count at first but found a better one late in editing. Hence the random change in mic for the word count numbers.
I started this masterpiece of a series in January of 2022, hesitant to commit to such a massive series. In part thanks to Daniel, I was daydreaming about scenes from Lord of Chaos in March during school. I finished the series in September, and was simply shocked and overwhelmed when I finished it. It was a 15/10 ride, I’d recommend it to anyone.
Sanderson did an amazing job finishing the series and I was one who originally said LEAVE it unfinished. I’m so happy they did finish it!
I loved your honest takes on the show. I love everyone's opinions but really hate when it gets toxic in the fandom!
The "slog" is one of the best parts when you reread it, because all of the scenes that feel like they are dragging on in the first read through are full of really subtle foreshadowing and character development that you missed the first read through.
I'm on book 11, and man, it's so satisfying seeing all the books come by I've already read and just how much that already is
Also, it really put a smile on my face to hear you talk about WoT again :)
as someone who grew up dyslexic, I never really realized how much my mother would encourage me to read whenever I showed any interest in it. She used to stop by the library almost everyday to make sure I had a new book ready because when I was younger I was going through books so fast (i was reading a series of unfortunate events and the magic tree house in like the fifth grade so i was zooming through these). Hearng your story reminded me of that , thanks!
Great Hunt - Dragon Reborn - Shadow Rising is one of my favorite 3 book stretches. You get main perspectives and storylines from almost all the different characters, each book has its own kind of tone and flow. Whenever I think WoT i think of that 3 book stretch.
I started reading the series August of 2021 and I'm currently on book 12 and I've fallen in love with this series. Your summary videos have helped me remember key details. I'm getting emotional that I'm about to end the series. Thanks for all your helpful videos! As a new member of this fandom I'm so grateful. ☺️
I used to work a job that involved a lot of long driving hours and walking around outdoors by myself, The Wheel of Time audiobooks kept me company and helped maintain my sanity on long trips and long days. Probably listened all the way through 3 or four times, they will always be close to my heart
I discovered this series in 1998 when I randomly found The Eye of the World in a bookstore and thought the cover looked cool. Like you Daniel, this series has been my refuge from all of life's stresses and I re-read it once every couple of years. It is, by far, my favorite series ever and feels like a second home to me. Thanks for breaking it down.
I vote for The Dark Tower as the next breakdown video!
I found these books thanks to the series, and thanks to that I found your channel, I'm on book 3 and already bought the fourth one, absolutely in love with it, thaaaaank you for all the content!!!!!💚💚💚💚💚💚
This is the best breakdown yet. Definitely seems like you've taken a lot of the feedback. It also helps that this is your favourite series. But I like getting little tidbits about the books as you go. And the audiobook info was a nice touch (that's how I read them all - long live Michael Kramer and Kate Reading)
The foreshadowing. You said it there. I so want to include it in my books, but I have to remember, Jordan was only scratching the surface in book one. I have book two, to include more. But then to do something different, when he threw so much in his fifteen books, is challenging.
Ok… but the editing and graphics on this video are PERFECTION!
The way you talk about your mom at the end is very wholesome, I love it hahah
The presentation and editing was immaculate in this video 👩🍳💋
Just started The Wheel of Time last week.
And away we go…
This book series was inspirational to me growing up. I distinctly remember taking the train to school and seeing the occasional person reading it. A wink and a nod and I knew that there was a fellow WoTer, someone like me around. It is just so nice to hear someone articulate how important this series has been for so many people. Thank you.
I’ve read the entire series 4 or 5 times. I’ve listened to the Audiobooks somewhere in the 15 to 20 times bracket. Before I retired I had a job where I could listen to Audiobooks almost the entire time I worked. One time I listened to the entire series 3 times back to back.
Oh man - your comment about Wheel of Time being your comfort series to retreat to hit me right in the memories - for me I started in high school, paused my rereads when I went to uni, and then picked it back up afterwards, when I was going through a really rough spot. I dunno why, but this series just does it for me :)
Great video as always!
I'd like to throw in a little something about the slog:
Having been in my seventh year of my history teacher degree when reading the alleged "slog" I never felt it.
I think I never noticed it because at that point I was so used to things being way more complex than the surface analysis suggests that I was really *happy* about what feels like hundreds of chapters on the (no spoilers) * * * * * * * succession crisis because it makes this series feel *so* much more like history.
Best regards
Raoul G. Kunz
Hi DG,
I am by no means a huge Wheel of time fan and there are a number of things I really don't like about it. However ever since I finished it a couple of months ago, I have been missing it. I have a time set aside for audio book listening and have on occasion found my-self wishing I was still in the wheel of time world. For me the series saw me through all of the lockdowns we had during the pandemic. It's certainly not my favourite series but I cannot deny the impact it has had on me.
I’m currently going through WoT for the first time, currently reading Lord of Chaos and I love your WoT content, you’ve done a great job!
I'm literally about to start the chapter "the last battle" for the first time.
You have a long journey behind you, enjoy the end!
May you always find water and shade
@@fardareismai4495 time to spit in Sightblinders eye!
@@fardareismai4495 may you always find water and shade.
If I recall correctly that's a very short chapter where not a lot happens!
@@markgarroway7597 😂
Thank you for doing this. I really love the series, and I still remember being downrange and finding out AMoL had dropped from one of the Aussies stationed there.
Great breakdown! I already started Eye of the World recently before this video was released. And yes, this is my FIRST reading of WoT. Anyway
TIL: I was only 3 days old when Eye of the World released. That's actually kinda neat
I think the longer read time of Crown of Swords, despite the lower word count can be completely explained by a single word: Tel'aran'rhoid.
Well I hope it’s worth it! I bought all 15 of them and the only other books I own are by some Good-Kind fellow
I kinda envy you spending your childhood with this series.
I just started reading it for the first time at 27. Probably won't dethrone Malazan from my number 1 spot, but it is really great and enjoyable series.
Always down for some Wheel of Time. Especially from someone with passion for it.
That’s awesome. Thanks for the little run down of memory lane. :)
Wonderful episode Daniel. Have a good weekend.
My first time through, about 300 pages into Lord of Chaos as we speak, I'm loving it so much. You inspired me to read it Daniel!
A friend of mine, about 20 some years ago, recommended The Wheel of Time to me. I read it and I liked, but, I was not ready at that time to take on a series of that length.
Fast forward to today and now the entire series is on my TBR. Looking forward to reading it when it bubbles up the list. For me it's amazing how much my taste has changed over the years since.
I just finished book 4 and, for the third time since starting the series, immediately wanted to jump into the next. I'm trying to hold firm to reading a different book between each so I don't burn out, so it'll be a few years before I finish, but I'm absolutely loving the series so far.
I try to do the same thing when reading a series, usually with non-fiction or something very different to change things up
It took me 11months as a long distance truck driver to listen to the audiobooks. (Only in freeway driving with "not snow") when i was done...i went for Harry P. Listen to 4 and a half books in a week... I was kinda disappointed🤣.
But man did i cry and wanted another WoT book. Just to see how they was doing, what they had for breakfast lol. Anything. 1year of my life immersed in that world 🥰
Small stories within a large universe we’re already familiar with as an audience is my JAM
Coming up on my 1 year anniversary of finishing my first read through, goddamn I miss this world
I was thinking about this yesterday; for me probably the thing that makes it the most special and unlike anything else I've read is how you get the fully traditional heroic quest, magic sword, chosen one, mystical enchantress, ancient relics, inscrutable prophecy stuff woven into what could otherwise be - some of the flashier examples of magic aside - a work of early-renaissance-themed literary fiction. These books follow the lives, loves, and personal and political intrigues of a huge cast of characters as they live through a time of conflict and upheaval. It's just that the 'conflict and upheaval' in this case involves an actual cosmic evil and provides the motivating force for the heroic quest which forms the centre of the main plot.
I can't wait to finally read it... eventually. Gods I wish I had time for everything.
After years of reading I finished the series last week. I'm so happy a friend recommended it to me and have enjoyed watching your video's. Can't wait to start my reread.
I finished my first read of WoT yesterday and I need all the WoT content I can get my hands on.
Daniel, I bought "Wheel of Time" on your recommendation. And I loved it! I really didn't notice a slog
Pretty well timed, considering the panel at NYC Comic Con today. First time hearing Elayne's actor and Mat's new actor talking about the show in a formal setting to my knowledge. Also, I am just gonna ignore any "show is bad and I'm not gonna elaborate on why and just toss insults/life-drainers at you" comments so you might as well not bother.
I’m so happy about this. I’m reading the first wheel of time book because I really liked the show and am eager to learn more 🥳🥳🥳
Its funny how you inspired me to pick this series up, but it wasnt until monday of this week that i actually started. Then this video comes out on the day that books 1-3 arrive at my door. Thank you so much for the recommendation. I'm loving The Eye of the World and will hopefully continue to enjoy whats in store for me.
Good video. Thank you for addressing your current feelings about WoT. Hope you get more excited for show content in the future!
Imagine how weird it would be if he was holding a microphone that wasn't also a lethal weapon
I finally finished this amazing journey last month and I've been starving for more WoT content from you since your channel is what inspired me to start!
I would love if Daniel did a Alt Shift X's Dune or GoT series style videos explaining / summarizing the WoT book series or interesting aspects of its themes or world building, that would probably draw so many new fans to the books who find a 14 book series intimidating to jump into
Wonderful breakdown, as always! I personally have some issues with the books Sanderson wrote, but obviously he wasn't RJ. Overall I think he was a great choice and am grateful for him doing so.
Eagerly anticipating you continuing the read along if you get a second wind for it! I'm currently on Book 10 for my first time reading and your analysis and assurance it gets better in Book 11 is the only thing keeping me going. I definitely agree that when I reread the series, I'll get more out of it.
heres a spoiler, ur gonna love book 11
@@Bt-cq6te Finished Book 11, can confirm, did love it
Wheel of Time single-handedly rekindled my love for fantasy, I simply couldn’t stop once I started. The hints and clues Robert drops kept me diving back in for more. Currently working through Brandon Sanderson’s work because of how impressive his finale was. Pick it up if you haven’t
One of my absolute favorite book series! Read and listened to the whole series more than any other books. Love it all! Thanks for the deep dive!
Loved this series since 95, also grew up with it playing a huge part in my formative years. As always, love any WoT content you deliver. It's always great and I appreciate your work.
I’ve listened to the audiobooks so many times… currently I’m on TSR, one of my all time fav books
I may have some complaints about the show but all I can say is look at it as an alternate telling of the wheel, you just didn't see a portal stone being used.
I'm starting book 5 next week alongside a friend of mine! We're both loving the series so far, although he was more put of by the length of 4 than I was. It's so cozy while also being very exciting and new.
I have read wheel of time twice and am on my third reread because of you
I have never read any of the Wheel of Time books. BUT, after watching all your content on it, I think I'm going to give it a try. I find books like this to just feel so intimidating.
I am going through the series now and am definitely enjoying it and wish I had read it before. That being said I don't sadly find it as flawless as some do. It fits in at an interesting transitional period of time for the fantasy genre and is a product of that I think.
I would really like it if you would continue the read along!
Wheel of Time was how my parents got me to read as well. I got the first three - or rather six books since they split those big boys apart in my native language- at christmas when I was 8 and I devoured them over the winter break. From then on the new books were my go-to christmas or birthday presents whenever they came out. And then in seventh grade they switched me over to the english originals when bought me the Crown of Swords paperback which had just gotten published to supplement my english skills because I was doing poorly with the subject at school. I must admit it worked.
About half way through the series, loving it so far for sure!!
It was weird you mentioned getting emotional. I dont know why, but this simple breakdown of the logistics of each book had me emotional as well. This series is a Pillar of my life , just as it is for many others.
When I first found the eye of the world and fall into this story I had no idea how well know it was. I wasn't on any social media or involved in the fantasy world at all. It's the second fantasy series I ever read. First being The Chronicles of Narnia as a kid. When I was done I got involved online as a way to find more fantasy books I'm the only reader in my family. I remember being amazed at all the Wheel of Time content. In a way it was wonderful. In a different way I lost the idea that it was my very own hidden gem
I'm in book 9 and although I'm not loving the absence of Mat or what's going on with Perrin, I loved how things have turned when Rand finally "talks" to Elyane. For all the talk of the slog I'm getting through Winter's Heart faster than most books in the series so far..
Haha! Thanks mom for getting you that book despite the challenges !