Embarking on the journey of Robert Jordan’s “The Wheel of Time” series is akin to opening a doorway to an epic world of fantasy. Comprising 14 novels and a prequel, it’s a saga of grand proportions, known for its detailed plot and complex characters. This series has captivated countless readers and has even inspired a television adaptation.
However, the sheer volume of material can be overwhelming for first-time readers. In this post, we’ll provide a guide to navigate this epic journey, covering the series reading order by publication and chronology, the authorship, and the TV adaptation.
Wheel of Time Reading Order by Publication Date
When it comes to the reading order of “The Wheel of Time,” many recommend following the publication order. Robert Jordan, the author of the series, has meticulously woven the plot and character development to unfold naturally when read this way. Here’s the publication order:
- The Eye of the World (1990)
- The Great Hunt (1990)
- The Dragon Reborn (1991)
- The Shadow Rising (1992)
- The Fires of Heaven (1993)
- Lord of Chaos (1994)
- A Crown of Swords (1996)
- The Path of Daggers (1998)
- Winter’s Heart (2000)
- Crossroads of Twilight (2003)
- Knife of Dreams (2005)
- The Gathering Storm (2009)
- Towers of Midnight (2010)
- A Memory of Light (2013)
The prequel, “New Spring” (2004), can be read at any point after the fifth book but is often recommended after the tenth.
Wheel of Time Books in Chronological Order
The chronological order differs slightly from the publication order due to the inclusion of the prequel “New Spring” which delves into the backstory of two main characters twenty years prior to the events of the first book. The chronological order would look like this:
- New Spring (Prequel)
- The Eye of the World
- The Great Hunt
- The Dragon Reborn
- The Shadow Rising
- The Fires of Heaven
- Lord of Chaos
- A Crown of Swords
- The Path of Daggers
- Winter’s Heart
- Crossroads of Twilight
- Knife of Dreams
- The Gathering Storm
- Towers of Midnight
- A Memory of Light
Who Wrote The Wheel of Time?
The “Wheel of Time” series was the brainchild of American author Robert Jordan. He authored the series from the first installment until his untimely passing in 2007. Jordan had planned the series finale but could not complete it himself.
However, before his passing, he left extensive notes, allowing another talented fantasy author, Brandon Sanderson, to finish the last three books of the series. This seamless transition ensured Jordan’s epic vision reached its planned conclusion.
Wheel of Time TV Show
The world of ‘The Wheel of Time’ has been brought to life in a television series by Amazon Studios. This adaptation, much like the book series, takes viewers on an epic fantasy journey, replete with magic, intrigue, and vast landscapes. As of 2023, the show is receiving critical acclaim for its faithful adaptation of the source material and its powerful performances.
Expert Tip: Whether you’re a long-time fan of the books or a newcomer to the series, the “Wheel of Time” TV show is a compelling visual experience that complements the epic-written saga.
1. The Eye of the World (1990)
The series begins in the peaceful village of Two Rivers, following three young men: Rand al’Thor, Matrim (Mat) Cauthon, and Perrin Aybara. Their simple lives are disrupted when the mysterious Moiraine and her protector, Lan, arrive.
Moiraine, a member of the powerful Aes Sedai, reveals the boys are being hunted by forces of the Dark One, a malevolent entity seeking to reshape the world in his image. Moiraine guides them on a dangerous journey towards the Aes Sedai city of Tar Valon, battling dark forces, exploring forgotten cities, and discovering their own latent powers along the way.
2. The Great Hunt (1990)
Following the events at the Eye of the World, Rand grapples with the revelation of his destiny as the Dragon Reborn, a prophesied figure destined to face the Dark One. He, Mat, and Perrin embark on a quest to recover the Horn of Valere, a legendary artifact that can summon dead heroes to fight in the Last Battle.
Simultaneously, Egwene al’Vere and Nynaeve al’Meara train in Tar Valon to harness their powers under the guidance of the Aes Sedai.
3. The Dragon Reborn (1991)
Rand, tormented by his destiny and the dangerous power he wields, isolates himself, leading to a chase as both friends and foes seek him. Meanwhile, Perrin and Mat uncover plots and face personal challenges, while Egwene and Nynaeve confront the sinister Black Ajah within the Aes Sedai. The novel culminates with Rand’s climactic battle in the city of Tear.
4. The Shadow Rising (1992)
Rand, now wielding the sword Callandor, is drawn to the Aiel Waste, seeking an understanding of his role as the Car’a’carn, the chief of chiefs of the Aiel.
Perrin returns to Two Rivers to protect his home from encroaching dark forces, while Mat, Egwene, and Nynaeve journey into the realm of the Aelfinn and the Eelfinn, mysterious beings who offer cryptic answers and gifts but at a price.
5. The Fires of Heaven (1993)
Rand consolidates his power in the Aiel Waste and leads the Aiel in a march against the Forsaken Rahvin, who rules the nation of Andor under compulsion. Nynaeve and Elayne, another novice from Tar Valon, are on Rahvin’s trail, while Mat begins to comprehend the military knowledge he gained from the Eelfinn.
6. Lord of Chaos (1994)
As the sixth installment opens, Rand al’Thor, now the Dragon Reborn and leader of the Aiel, is consolidating his power and tries to bring order to his followers. His actions have drawn the ire of many factions, including the Aes Sedai. Unbeknownst to Rand, a faction of the Aes Sedai plans to assert control over him.
Meanwhile, Egwene al’Vere has been named the Amyrlin Seat of the rebel Aes Sedai. Mat Cauthon, now a General, gets entangled in a rescue mission and is drawn deeper into the world of the Aes Sedai and their politics.
7. A Crown of Swords (1996)
Following a climactic battle, Rand sets his sights on the remaining Forsaken, powerful followers of the Dark One. He pursues one of them to the city of Illian, hoping to bring them to justice. Elayne Trakand, accompanied by Nynaeve al’Meara, returns to Caemlyn to claim her throne but faces various obstacles.
Mat Cauthon finds himself in the city of Ebou Dar, where he becomes embroiled in a hunt for the ter’angreal that can control the weather.
8. The Path of Daggers (1998)
As the nations reel under the unrelenting summer heat, Rand brings the rebels in Illian under his control, while Elayne, Nynaeve, Aviendha, and Mat use the Bowl of Winds to rectify the unnatural weather. Perrin Aybara, in the meantime, gathers his forces to confront the invading army of the Prophet in Ghealdan.
9. Winter’s Heart (2000)
In the ninth book, Rand, tormented by the taint of saidin and the failures he has experienced, embarks on a quest to cleanse saidin, a task deemed impossible and fraught with danger. Meanwhile, Mat is caught in the city of Ebou Dar as an unexpected invasion forces him to plan a daring escape.
10. Crossroads of Twilight (2003)
The aftermath of the cleansing of saidin sends shockwaves throughout the world. While many feel the change, few know its source, leading to widespread fear and suspicion. Meanwhile, Mat continues his flight from Ebou Dar, while Elayne struggles to solidify her claim to the throne of Andor amidst political intrigue and treachery.
11. Knife of Dreams (2005)
As the last book is completed by Robert Jordan, the plot sees Rand preparing for the final battle with the Dark One. Elayne’s battle for the Lion Throne intensifies, while Mat, having escaped from Ebou Dar, plans a daring rescue for a captive friend. Perrin launches a desperate mission to rescue his wife, Faile, from the Shaido Aiel.
12. The Gathering Storm (2009)
Now co-authored by Brandon Sanderson, the story follows Rand as he faces internal and external pressures. His struggle with the turmoil within himself takes center stage. Egwene, held captive in the White Tower, mounts a resistance against Elaida, the controversial Amyrlin Seat, inspiring many with her courage and wisdom.
13. Towers of Midnight (2010)
As the Last Battle looms, Perrin Aybara confronts his past and the warrior he has become. Mat, armed with the knowledge of the impending disaster at the Tower of Ghenjei, embarks on a daring mission to save his friends. Meanwhile, Rand, having achieved clarity and accepted his role, prepares for the final confrontation.
14. A Memory of Light (2013)
The climactic conclusion to The Wheel of Time series sees Rand al’Thor, the Dragon Reborn, leading his forces against the Dark One in the Last Battle. As the world crumbles around them, Rand and his companions must make sacrifices and face their destinies. The outcome of the epic confrontation will determine the fate of the world.
Yes, it’s generally recommended to read “The Wheel of Time” series in order. This is because the series follows a continuous storyline, with each book building upon the plot and character development of the previous one. Skipping a book might lead to confusion and a lack of context for understanding ongoing events and character arcs.
If you’re considering the reading order, there are primarily two approaches to choose from:
- Publication Order: This is the order in which the books were originally released, and is the most recommended approach for first-time readers. This way, you will experience the story as it unfolded for readers following the series from its beginning.
It starts with “The Eye of the World” and goes through to “A Memory of Light”. The prequel, “New Spring”, can be read after finishing the tenth book, “Crossroads of Twilight”, since it was published after that book and contains spoilers for the previous ones. - Chronological Order: This order takes into account the prequel novel “New Spring”, which details events occurring two decades before the main series. Some readers prefer reading the series in this order, starting with “New Spring”, but this approach is often recommended for those who are already familiar with the series.
Expert Tip: Regardless of the approach you choose, it’s essential to read all the books in the series to fully understand the plot and appreciate the depth of its characters. The ‘Wheel of Time’ is a rich, intricately plotted series that requires a committed reading approach for the most rewarding experience.
What is the recommended reading order for “The Wheel of Time” series for first-time readers?
For first-time readers, the recommended reading order is the publication order, starting with “The Eye of the World” and proceeding to “A Memory of Light”. The prequel, “New Spring”, is recommended after the tenth book, “Crossroads of Twilight”.
The series was initiated by American author Robert Jordan. After his untimely death in 2007, Brandon Sanderson, guided by Jordan’s extensive notes, completed the last three books of the series.
What does the chronological order of “The Wheel of Time” entail?
The chronological order includes the prequel “New Spring” at the beginning, as it covers events that occur two decades before the main series. The rest of the series follows the same order as the publication sequence.
What is the central theme of “The Wheel of Time” series?
‘The Wheel of Time’ is an epic fantasy saga revolving around a group of protagonists destined to battle the Dark One, a malevolent entity seeking to reshape the world in his image. It’s a story of good versus evil, laced with intricate plot lines, complex character arcs, political intrigue, and detailed world-building.
Who finished writing the series after Robert Jordan’s death?
The series was completed by renowned fantasy author Brandon Sanderson, who was chosen to continue the series based on extensive notes left by Robert Jordan.
Is there a TV adaptation of “The Wheel of Time”?
Yes, Amazon Studios has created a television adaptation of ‘The Wheel of Time’. As of 2023, it has been receiving critical acclaim for its faithful adaptation of the source material and strong performances.
Why is the publication order recommended for first-time readers of “The Wheel of Time” series?
The publication order is recommended for first-time readers as it allows them to experience the series as it was originally released, unfolding the narrative and character arcs in the manner intended by the author. Starting with “The Eye of the World”, readers are introduced to the characters and the world gradually, with each subsequent book building on the previous one.
Reading in this order prevents spoilers and possible confusion that might occur from prematurely gaining knowledge revealed in later books.
What is the significance of the prequel “New Spring” in “The Wheel of Time” series?
“New Spring” is a prequel to the main series, detailing events that occur about two decades before “The Eye of the World”. It provides valuable backstory, particularly about the characters Moiraine and Lan, adding depth to their roles in the main series. The prequel delves into how they came to be as we first meet them, illuminating their motivations and their relationship.
However, it’s suggested to read “New Spring” after “Crossroads of Twilight”, the tenth book in the series, as it was published after this book and contains spoilers for earlier volumes.
Why is the chronological order typically recommended for those already familiar with the series?
Reading the series in chronological order, which begins with the prequel “New Spring”, can be a fresh approach for those already familiar with the series. This reading order provides a linear timeline of events, starting with the backstory covered in the prequel.
However, it’s not typically recommended for first-time readers as the prequel assumes familiarity with the world of “The Wheel of Time” and contains spoilers for the earlier books.
Who are the key characters in “The Wheel of Time” series?
The series centers around several key characters from the village of Two Rivers: Rand al’Thor, Matrim (Mat) Cauthon, Perrin Aybara, Egwene al’Vere, and Nynaeve al’Meara. Over the course of the series, they undergo significant character development, evolving from ordinary villagers to crucial figures in the battle against the Dark One.
Other key characters include Moiraine Damodred, an Aes Sedai who guides the protagonists; Lan Mandragoran, her Warder and protector; and Elayne Trakand, a novice in the White Tower and heir to the throne of Andor.
How did Brandon Sanderson contribute to “The Wheel of Time” series?
After Robert Jordan’s death in 2007, Brandon Sanderson was chosen to complete the series based on Jordan’s extensive notes and partially written material. Sanderson authored the final three books: “The Gathering Storm”, “Towers of Midnight”, and “A Memory of Light”.
He worked closely with Harriet McDougal, Jordan’s wife, and editor, ensuring that the series stayed true to Jordan’s vision.
What can viewers expect from the TV adaptation of “The Wheel of Time”?
The TV adaptation of “The Wheel of Time” by Amazon Studios is a visual interpretation of the series, bringing to life the richly detailed world and characters that Robert Jordan created. As of 2023, it has been praised for its faithful adaptation of the source material and strong performance.
Viewers can expect a high-production-value series that captures the grandeur of the epic fantasy saga, featuring pivotal plot lines and character arcs that have enthralled readers for decades.
Conclusion
Stepping into the world of “The Wheel of Time” is an immersive journey into a complex and meticulously crafted universe. As readers traverse the landscapes of this epic saga, they encounter compelling characters, enthralling plot twists, and grand themes of destiny and the struggle between good and evil.
Whether you choose to read the series in publication order or chronologically, each approach offers its unique rewards. With a critically acclaimed TV series bringing new dimensions to the saga, “The Wheel of Time” continues to capture the imagination of a global audience.
But remember, as the old saying goes, “the Wheel weaves as the Wheel wills”, so be prepared for a thrilling and unpredictable ride.