Quote:
Originally Posted by Turtle91
My initial reaction is to read in written order. I can't point to specific instances, but there will be times when you read a passage and something just "clicks" from one of the previous books...you won't necessarily get that if read in chronological order.
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I couldn't express the impact of reading the Saga of Recluce in order of publication better if I hired Chaucer to do it for me. Thank you, Turtle91!!! It is certainly published out of chronological order for a reason, and I do believe that is part of the reason I fell in love with the series. Not often can an author capture an audience for a series in length of 16 novels and counting (yes, he is writing book #17 as we speak!!!), and keep them wanting more. Given the complexities and dimensions of the storyline presented in this series, I do have to say that reading in chronological order is certainly called for--as a second reading, and as to solidify everything you've put together upon your first reading.
If there is one thing I can say, Creslin was hard (for me) to get through. Based on him alone I could have hung the series up to dry, it was knowing I would read more of Justen that kept me going...until I met Dorrin. It is only with hindsight that I appreciate the information given in book #2.
Beyond that, while I wish I could comment on your "Hobbit" reference to reading things "in order", I found all of my attempts to read any of Tolkien's books frustrating at best. Perhaps I just need to give it some time. On the other hand, the fact that I put quotations around "in order" made me giggle considering our topic of discussion. Am I bound to order because I have acknowledged it's presence and use, or have my chaos senses just recognized and located the order focus? lol