The Wheel of Time: Navigating the Middle Books and the Last Four

Recently, various discussions about the books in The Wheel of Time series have sparked debates among fans. One common sentiment is that reading some of these books individually might be a mistake, especially after the first book. However, as I'll explain, the middle books, particularly The Fellowship of the Shard, have their merits and are essential for understanding the arc of the series.

Is It Stupid to Read Only the Middle Books?

Some argue that reading the middle books of The Wheel of Time is a waste of time, believing that they are less engaging or satisfying than the first book. This perspective, however, overlooks the importance and unique value these middle novels add to the overall narrative. If you're deeply invested in the series and have made it to The Lord of Chaos (book 6), you might find that the seventh book, The Forsaken Will, feels a bit disappointing initially.

The seventh book is indeed shorter and less eventful compared to its predecessors. The conclusion of the big battle featuring the Forsaken, which is a hallmark feature of the series, might feel somewhat anticlimactic. Yet, upon a reread after completing all 14 books, the seventh novel emerges as a more powerful story. It moves the plot forward significantly while remaining closer in tone and structure to The Lord of Chaos.

Why Read the Middle Books?

The real value of the middle books lies in their pivotal role in the overarching narrative. They serve as a bridge between the initial excitement and the climactic finale. If you skip these middle sections, you might miss out on critical plot developments that set up the events in the last four books.

Moreover, the narrative of the last four books, including The Gathering Storm, Te'ai the Jumplander, Aop Kokov, and The Path of Daggers, holds immense value. They are considered must-reads for any fan of the series. While these books often garner mixed reviews, their significance cannot be overlooked. For instance, The Gathering Storm is often mentioned as one of the most impactful books in the series, providing a critical build-up to the final chapters.

The Real Journey: From Varying Quality to Climax

Robert Jordan's writing style and the series' trajectory are best understood through a comprehensive reading experience. Early books like The Eye of the World and A Crown for Hael are celebrated for their engaging storytelling and world-building. However, as the series progresses, particularly from books 7 to 10, the narratives become more complex and introspective. Book 11, The Fires of Heaven, is often likened to the journey in The Lord of the Rings, where the sense of adventure is balanced with profound emotional depth and critical development.

While these middle books may not always be adventure-driven, they are crucial for the character development and plot progression. Books like The Fires of Heaven and The Dragon Reborn (book 8) lay the groundwork for the final four books, providing thematic and narrative richness.

Is 5 Books Worth It?

Yes, they are. The last four books of The Wheel of Time are considered some of the most significant in the entire series. While some readers might find the middle books to be a bit of a slog, the inherent value and narrative momentum in the latter books make it worth the read. These final chapters offer a thrilling and fulfilling conclusion to the story. Skimming through them may be tempting, but a thorough exploration of the series' climax is highly recommended.

In conclusion, while the middle books in The Wheel of Time may seem less exciting, they are essential for the overall narrative arc. Reading them in conjunction with the entire series provides a more complete and fulfilling experience. Whether you're a long-time fan or someone new to the series, these books are worth your time and attention.