Robert Jordan was one of the most well-known fantasy writers of our time. His “Wheel of Time” series sold over fourteen million copies in North America and over thirty million copies worldwide. He created a new world and a new language that is often quoted by his followers, to the befuddlement of those around them who have not yet discovered his books.
Unfortunately, Jordan passed away in September from an unusual blood disease. He had already begun outlining the twelfth and final book in the “Wheel of Time” series and had compiled copious notes on how the book should flow. At the time of his death, these notes fell into the hands of his widow, Harriet Popham Rigney, and she chose Tor author Brandon Sanderson to finish the book and bring the series to a close.
Brandon Sanderson has three fantasy novels on the market at this time – “Elantris,” “Mistborn,” and “The Well of Ascension.” These three books were published with Tor, Jordan’s publisher as well. Sanderson’s most recent release, “Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians,” was produced by Scholastic. Sanderson names Jordan as one of his inspirations and is awed at this opportunity.
I’ve had the chance to meet with Sanderson on several occasions and say, this couldn’t happen to a nicer guy. Not only is he immensely talented, but he’s personable and down to earth.
I can hardly imagine what this opportunity must be like for Sanderson. I’ve tried to imagine myself in his shoes – the pressure, the excitement – it would be like me being chosen to finish a book by one of my idols, say, Louisa May Alcott or Corrie Ten Boom. It’s mindboggling, to say the least.
This twelfth book will be titled “A Memory of Light” and will be released in the fall of 2009. I imagine this release will get a lot of attention – everyone will be wondering, did Sanderson pull it together? My prediction: he’ll do a fantastic job.
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