MAIN Art &... Pop Culture Eragon

He was only 15 when sci-fi & fantasy fan Christopher Paolini began writing about another 15 year-old who, in a land far away, wakes up one day to find he's in possession of a dragon egg.

From there, the title character is suddenly thrust into a completely new and magical world where he also comes into possession of an ancient sword - and learns that the fate of the entire Empire may one day rest in his hands.

Eragon the Book

Soon, through sheer pluck and determination, the young author self-published his new book and later promoted it to anyone who would listen.

Publishing giant Knopf eventually took notice - and the rest is now part of publishing legend.

Eragon was later made a national bestseller by fans drawn to the fictional world of Dragon Riders, elves, dwarfs, and ugly Urgals who live in the mystical land of Alagaësia, ruled over by the evil and twisted king, Galbatorix.

Eragon the Movie

Based on the book, and set for big budget holiday release on December 15, 2006 is Eragon the movie.

Among the principal stars in the film version is Edward Speleers the young actor with little acting background - and no film experience - who beat out thousands of other hopefuls for the title role.

Chris Egan plays Eragon's cousin and most trusted friend, Roran.

Jeremy Irons plays Brom, the former Dragon Rider and Eragon's teacher & mentor. Perfectly cast as the heavy is John Malkovich who plays evil Galbatorix.

Meanwhile, the appearance of the equally-anticipated Eragon video game is due out in November, a month before the film's world premier.

The Inheritance Trilogy

Eragon is only the first book of the Inheritance trilogy.

Paolini has already completed the second book in the series, Eldest, published in 2005. The as-yet to be completed third and concluding book is rumored to be entitled Empire.

Eragon Online

Elsewhere on the Web, find out more at sites dedicated to the Inheritance trilogy, and join legions of fans found in community forums and message boards, or view clips and movie stills, and hear the latest buzz on the long-awaited big budget Hollywood movie ...