Eragon by Christopher Paolini is a young adult epic fantasy novel, first published in 2002. It is the first book in the Inheritance Cycle series.
The story follows Eragon, a teenage farm boy who discovers a mysterious blue stone in the mountains near his home in the land of Alagaësia. When the stone hatches into a dragon—Saphira—Eragon’s life is transformed forever. He is thrust into a world of magic, danger, and destiny as he becomes a Dragon Rider, one of the last of a legendary order thought lost to history.
After his uncle is murdered by agents of the tyrannical King Galbatorix, Eragon sets out on a journey of revenge, guided by the wise and secretive storyteller Brom. Along the way, he learns swordsmanship, spellcasting, and the responsibilities of his role in an ancient struggle between freedom and oppression.
Combining elements of classic fantasy—dragons, elves, ancient magic, and a chosen hero—with a coming-of-age story, Eragon explores themes of courage, destiny, and the choices that shape one’s future.
Written by Paolini when he was just 15 years old, the novel became a major bestseller and remains a beloved introduction to the fantasy genre for younger readers.
