Is the Wheel of Time Continuation Worth Reading After Robert Jordan's Death?

Robert Jordan's ?The Wheel of Time“ series, once a beloved cornerstone of epic fantasy literature, faced a significant shift following the author's passing in 2007. This marked the beginning of the final three books being written by Brandon Sanderson, igniting a debate among fans and critics alike. Here, we delve into why these continuation books are worth reading and explore the unique strengths they bring to the series.

Continuation of the Story

Sanderson admirably continued the intricate plotlines and character arcs established by Jordan, providing a satisfying conclusion to the series. The final books maintain a sense of unity and completeness, ensuring that long-time readers find closure. Sanderson's contribution underscores the complexity of the story while delivering engaging prose, much like Sanderson's own work in the Mistborn series.

Clarity and Pacing

One of the standout features of Sanderson's writing is its clarity and pacing. This is particularly significant because it picks up the narrative where Jordan left off, an often challenging task. Despite some initial skepticism, many readers appreciate his ability to blend the intricacies of the story with a smooth, accessible prose that enhances the reading experience. This coherence in storytelling is one of the driving factors behind why these final books are considered essential additions to the series.

Character Development

The final books in the series delve deeper into character development, offering significant growth for many key characters that earlier readers might have previously overlooked. This emotional investment is crucial for maintaining a connection with the story. For instance, characters like Rand al'Thor, Egwene al'Vere, and Mat Cauthon undergo substantial transformations that enrich the narrative, making their journeys all the more compelling.

Resolution of Major Plot Threads

Perhaps one of the most striking aspects of the final books is the way they resolve numerous plot threads and mysteries that have been woven throughout the series. This closure provides a sense of completion that long-time readers often seek. The culmination in A Memory of Light particularly stands out as an epic battle sequence, Tarmon Gai’don, which fans universally praise as one of the best extended battle scenes ever written. Many readers describe finishing this chapter in a single sitting.

Expanded Worldbuilding

Brandon Sanderson expands on the rich world of the Wheel of Time with new elements and deeper lore. This not only caters to fans of fantasy who enjoy the detailed worldbuilding but also enriches the narrative, allowing for a more immersive experience. Sanderson's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to connect disparate plot lines into a cohesive whole (often referred to as the Sanderson Avalanche) is a testament to his skill as a writer.

Why It Matters

Robert Jordan left detailed notes about how he wanted the series to end, and his wife himself wrote the epilogue, ensuring that the final books are "his" ending. This adds an extra layer of authenticity and closure that many fans appreciate. Brandon Sanderson, known for his big finishes, brought new energy and momentum to the series, particularly in the final three books. His ability to take the series from a slow middle to a thrilling conclusion has been lauded by many readers.

Conclusion

For those who enjoyed the earlier books in the series, the final three books are generally recommended as a worthy continuation. While some long-time fans might miss the unique voice and pacing of Robert Jordan, the mature storylines, engaging prose, and emotional depth are undeniable. If you've already enjoyed the series, picking up the final three books can be a significant treat.

Feel free to do yourself a favor and read them. You won't be disappointed.