Belgarath the Sorcerer

This book is the story of Belgarath the Sorcerer who is over seven thousand years old. It takes place from his childhood all the way to well past his seven thousandth birthday. I wouldn't suggest reading this book unless you have first read the two series the Belgariad and the Mallorean. This story tells most of what is not told in those series.

The book is written like Belgarath is telling it. The author does a great job of writing the entire book in first person. And seeing as Belgarath is using magic to have his thoughts or words written down, it is complete with the little interruptions that would no doubt happen, and that we have no clue what they are about.

This is an extremely well written fantasy book. But then again, what else would you expect from David Eddings. Belgarath is the main character. However the supporting cast of his friends really adds to the book. People like Prince "Silk" Kheldar and Lady Polgara (his daughter) are just unforgettable.

I feel that the book was extremely well written. With unforgettable characters and a story that happens over thousands of years and a whole world. A main character who dismisses decades and centuries as we would months and years. If you read this book you won't be disappointed.

Belgarath The Sorcerer is more or less Belgarath's view and explanation of events which led up to the start of The Belgariad, which began with the book Pawn of Prophecy. The reader will find most of this story quite familiar in that Eddings has rehashed much of the information which was presented in the previously mentioned series. Granted, there are new twists and new detailed information, but the story is the same. Many of the characters in this new book are the very same characters we find with our original reading of the series. Now some have found this to be a bad thing. I personally rather enjoyed it. I make no bones about it, nor do I apologize for being a big fan of Eddings (and as we now know, Leigh Eddings, his wife). As I have mentioned in my previous reviews, these are comfort books for me. I read them for relaxation. The author has even used many of the tired old jokes, which are actually sort of funny, in this work as well as most of the settings and situations we have come to expect.

As mentioned before, with the first ten books I have been able to identify 233 errors the author made (hey, I even have my books cross referenced). With this work, I am able to add even more errors! While this may seem a bit compulsive/obsessive (which indeed, it probably is, well too bad...I enjoy it and plan to continue the hobby). We are not talking typos, punctuation and such; we are talking major errors in plot and facts. This is a wonderful game and I love it. For me it does not distract from the story one bit, and in fact makes it sort of charming.

This work, like the previous works from which it was taken, moves right along, and while quite predictable, for the most part, is still a very interesting read and great fun to just enjoy. The author can tell a good story and he does hold my interest. Again, this is not for every one. If you did not enjoy the first ten books of the series, then you will probably not enjoy this one. Actually, I cannot for the life of me figure out why someone who hated the previous books, forked out good money for more of the same...go figure.

If you are a fan of Belgarath and crew, then you will quite likely enjoy this read, if you are not...

Don Blankenship
The Ozarks

I loved the Belgariad and Mallorean so naturally this book is one worth reading. This lays the groundwork for everything set in motion during the two noted series. There are some cyclical ideas in the story telling, but I find this to enjoyable since most of life is cyclical. Since this book is essentially a historical account in the series, it makes sense that it has some repetitions, after all human history is repetitive. The best thing about this book was the foundation Eddings orchestrated for the premise of the Belgariad. It was very exciting and pleasurable to read about the beginning of the spiritual mythos that Eddings created in this realm. Learning about the gods involvements with human prior to the cracking of the world was very fun and worth reading. Also, the development of the Belgarath and Polgara characters lends itself to further enjoyment of the Belgariad and Malloeran series'.

Eddings has been one of my favorite authors for quick, clear fantasy since I read Pawn of Prophecy when I was about 12. I'll give you the positive and negative...

Positive

Eddings's excellent, funny characters are back. Belgarath has always been one of my favorites. The fantasy world itself is large, with each nation displaying a distinct culture. The first person perspective gives us a new insight into Belgarath's thoughts. The magical happenings and personalities of gods give a sense of wonder to the books.

Negative

Characters sometimes seem to go through little development throughout the chronological sequels. Also, the total plot has never been earth-shattering except within the story. However, the details are given very well, with a few surprises. In conclusion, Eddings fans should DEFINITELY buy this. Fantasy fans should read _Pawn of Prophecy_ and see if they wish to continue the series. I think they will. Non-fantasy fans should also read _Pawn of Prophecy_; it's a good introduction

Belgarath the Sorcerer is a prequel to the Belgariad and the
Mallorean which it deals with the events up until Pawn of Prophecy:
Book One of The Belgariad. Belgarath the Sorcerer picks up
after the end of The Mallorean and fills in details to the
two previous series. It also gives explanations to the
animosities between certain characters in the series that
were not given before, only hinted at. A reader who has not
read The Belgariad and The Mallorean may miss some of the
significance of this book, but for those who have read the two
series, this book is the perfect companion and should be
read.

Belgarath the Sorcerer is perhaps David Eddings best work to date
and should be read in order of release, due to the fact that
the book picks up where The Mallorean leaves off. Fans
of Eddings work will truly enjoy reading this for its humor
as well as for its detail, it remains true to the storylines
and is truly worth the reader's while.

The Belgeriad and Mallorean series are my favorite pieces of fantasy literature - I've read them a couple times, and they are always super enjoyable, and always force me to stay up late reading them because I can't stop, even though I know what's going to happen.
This book (and Polgara) is a wonderful cap to the whole series, going all way back in time. Although much of it is a repeat of what was in the other books, this is wonderful reading since it is all from the perspective of Belgarath, alive these last 7,000 years, and he offers many, many new insights to the events of the books. It's fascinating: construct a whole series with the omniscient narrator, and then write two more books going over the whole thing again, but from the point of views of two characters in the series. Surprisingly, it not only works, it works well, and it's quite compelling reading. And Eddings writes convincingly enough to make one think it really *is* Belgarath who has written this.
Absolutely excellent reading, but of course, you really do have to read the first ten books first. And I can't recommend this series enough. Certainly the best multi-volume fantasy series that has come out (and yes, I am apostate by regarding this higher than Lord of the Rings, but so be it).

This was the first Eddings book I had ever read. It got a little confusing here and there as I hadn't read the Belgariad yet. However, the gaps didn't become apparent until the end of the book and even then, they were passable....if barely.

Eddings gives life to Belgarath who is now firmly my favourite character. In this book, you get to see how Belgarath's mind works and what he feels of other people while listening to his witty comments about this and that.

I've read this book at least three times in the past six months as it is quite a good reference to check up with the Belgariad. It may sometimes get a little boring but there is usually some humour in the form of the narration, or one of the other characters.

There's still a couple of gaps for Eddings to use for his next book Polgara the Sorceress and if it's anything like this, I'm definitely getting out there to buy it as soon as possible....well at least as soon as I can scrape up the money to anyway...

I had begun to read David Eddings books, Belgariad while I was studying in London during the late '80's and l was hooked ever since. Belgarath the Sorcerer explained a lot of things that had left unanswered in Belgariads and Malloreans..Like all other David's books this one have all the ingredients to make you just wanna read the whole book at one time.. It was definitely worth waiting for and l would strongly recommend to those guys who want to read science fiction book to go out and purchase Belgarath The Sorcerer right now...Go on guys you will never regret it.. David Eddings books were the only science fiction books that l had a passion for although l'd tried to read others... Hopefully there'll be another one on Polgara ...I'm looking forward to read about her... keep up the good work David!!! you got one loyal fan here in Malaysia..Is there any way l can be informed if the story on Polgara is published..I would like to get it the soonest possible..

Sarcastic, profane,slovenly, sometimes drunk, doesnt have perfect grooming habits and dress's badly, these are some of the descriptions that fit Belgarath. This book details the events that made him "The Eternal Man". Possibly the best conceived sorcerer in literature, Belgarath will certainly take a seat in history next to Gandorf, Obe-one, and Maadi. Some have complained that the book has "slow" spots. Well thats kinda like life, years of boredom, sixty seconds of terror. If every second of every day was heart stopping, even Belgarath would eventually give up. What I really liked was the fact that this book could stand alone. Even if I had never read the Belgarid/Mallorean series, I would have still enjoyed and understood this book. It has found a permanent place in my collection of "Keepers". I highly reccommend this book to everyone.

What a different view of the whole picture (Belgarath's the one telling the story, and so you get his hilarious point of view the whole way through)! This book takes you back before the Belgariad even takes place, starting with Belgarath's childhood, and the earlier parts of his 7,000 year life. This book has all of the things in the Belgariad and the Mallorean that you only briefly read about, such as the cracking of the world, Belgarath's story of becoming a desciple of Aldur, Zedar's treason, The meeting of Poledra and Belgarath, as well as many other stories that are finally revealed in all of their glory in this book. This book is a definate buy for someone who has completed both the Mallorean and the Belgariad. It also clears up a lot of confusion that you might have encountered throughout both the series.
WONDERFUL BOOK!

This book is really only for those that have already read the Belgariad and Mallorian series. It tells the tale of the Great Belgarath from thief to "holy man". It really isn't an exiting read but it's well writen and the plot (if you can call it that) is well laid out, but lacks any punch. It has the thinks that always bothers me in all of Eddings work and that is repetativnes, same jokes and characters tend to say the same thing (if somebody says a word that doesn't exist then the others always say something like "Gee I wish I could make upp word like that" and so on). I wish that he could think of new dialogs. Theres nothing new or original in this book but some times it's good to read a tried and tested formula specialy when it involves some of ones favorite fictional charachters.
If you have already read Eddings other works then this is a must, if not the give it a miss..

The book chronicles the life of Belgarath the sorcerer and is a fun addition to the Belgariad universe. The book is a prequel of sorts as it recounts all that has happened in his 7000 years of existence that lead up to the events of The Belgariad, Vol. 1 (Books 1-3): Pawn of Prophecy, Queen of Sorcery, Magician's Gambit and Mallorean The Malloreon, Vol. 1 (Books 1-3): Guardians of the West, King of the Murgos, Demon Lord of Karanda from his POV.

The protagonist Belgarath was the first disciple of the god Aldur great great .... grandfather of Belgarion.

The book is very simplistically written and whereas there are conflicts and plot twists in Belgariad and Mallorean, this book is quite predictable. Still it is a good read if you liked the other books.

This book begins, literally, at the beginning of Belgarath's life. It goes through each of the major points that you've been curious about since reading the Belgariad and the Mallorean, including the Battle of Vo Mimbre and other high and low points of history. It also tells in hilarious detail the events leading up to these events. The funniest parts occur when Belgarath, in his role as narrator, turns aside from the story to comment directly to his reader. Somehow, the Eddingses manage to fill in lots of gaps, satisfying our need to know about Belgarath's life, and create more gaps for Polgara, Belgarath's daughter, to fill in. All in all, this is a wonderful book, but it is not for the person who hasn't read both the Belgariad and the Mallorean

This book gives us an outline of Belgarath's life. Of course, due to his age (7000 years), we do not read about every little thing that ever happened to him. It presents a balanced portrait of the man. While it informs us on the many good deeds he has performed, it also shows us the dark side of his character. We are shown that despite his great power and the unbelieveable adventures he has had, Belgarath is just as human as the rest of us. The best example of this, is his reaction to the deatjh of his wife. It is written in the form of his memoirs, and the book is infused with a great sense of humour. You wiil keep turning the pages of this well crafted novel until you reach the end, then you will turn back to page 1 and begin again.

Belgarath's barbed comments and muses in both THE BELGARIAD and THE MALLOREAN left you wondering what had made his view on life so jaded. BELGARATH THE SORCERER answered most, but not all, of the questions left by the two series. (If all questions were answered, where would that leave the Eddings couple if they wanted to write another companion book to this storyline?) Those who have not read THE BELGARIAD and/or THE MALLOREAN may have a hard time following Belgarath's comments to the reader, but if they are looking to "feel out" the story, this is a good way. I recommend a babysitter (if you have kids), your favorite munchies, getting comfortable and letting yourself be swept away in an enchanting story by two superb authors

If you loved the Belgariad series, followed by the Mallorean series and wished you could spend more time with these characters in this special world, this is a fabulous read.

As others will say, Eddings isn't the most gifted writer, however this makes his books readable for all ages from teens on up and he has such a great sense of charm, most find themselves hopelessly caught up in the story and characters. Eddings spent a great deal of thought and time creating this world he's taken us on an extended tour of, and it shows.

I was sad at the end of The Mallorean, figuring I'd come to the end of the story and had to say farewell to Belgarath and his extended family. After a few years, I decided to give this book a try and was very pleased.

The book probably only 'deserves' 4 stars based on its literary merits but I just couldn't help myself. >;^)

If you enjoy David Eddings work, this book is for you. It's an excellent retelling of the only briefly covered history of Eternal Belgarath. If you've never sampled Eddings' work before, this a great start. The insight into the lives of his characters from before, during and after the Belgariad/Mallorian series is a treat to any die hard or future Eddings fan. If you didn't like the characters, setting or plot of the other books, you should probably skip this one. But I, for one, loved it and highly reccommend you read this book.

I thought this thick book would be at worst repeating things already mentioned in the saga, as the style of Eddings is similar to fairytales rather than an attempt for a realistic feeling world, and the stereotypes (particularly describing the various peoples and cultures) he already created in books 1 to 5 were repeated enough as it is. I was right about that, he repeats some things but generally speaking 90 percent of this book is all new material, as the history from Belgarath's point of view.
I had a great deal of good laughs; the book has a slower pace and allows for greater detail at points, but Eddings spares us a lot of boredom and still manages to capture not only great events but also everyday life. Robert Jordan could learn a thing or two from Eddings even though he might have greater talent.

I loved it! I also loved the Mallorean and Belgariad set that preceded this book. I haven't read Polgara yet... I want to though. I think that David and Leigh should write books about Silk and Barak, Relg and Taiba and all the rest of them. Especially Beldin and Poledra. I liked them the best. Oh and I liked Ce'Nedra too but I don't think they should write her life story. It would be kind of short.
Written by an aspiring author with VERY GOOD TASTE IN BOOKS. ( I like them all.)
:)

Well old Dave finally went and did it! For years, his loyal readers, myself included, have been clammoring for a little more in depth idea of the history of Belgarath the Ancient Sorcerer. Now that history is brought forth in a book of excellent caliber. This book brings together all the loose ends that were left lying around from the Belgariad and the Mallorean. Two thumbs up in my book. Now I am eagerly awaiting the history of Ancient Belgarath's daughter, Polgara. Well done! Keep them coming!

Belgarion bullied his grandfather into writing the missing tale of what happened before the Belgariad and Malloreon series, and like Garion himself, I was very curious about Belgarath's life. The book therefore did not dissapoint me! David and Leigh Eddings are now at a true literary level with their writing, for besides even their great style of writing, they can capture readers and make them part of the lives of their characters.
Every fase from Belgarath's life was different and intriguing and like the sorcerer himself, you're sorry when they are over. But new times bring new thrills and even as Belgarath experiences for himself, one time will replace the next. His peaceful time in the Vale was replaced by his friendship with Cherek and his sons; the loss of his wife was compensated by his daughter Polgara, whom he had to educate.
Belgarath is a wonderful, complex character and when you read this book, it's like hearing him tell the story to you in person!

You should only read this AFTER the Belgariad and Malloreon series.
This is a good book - it has great writing, good characters, humor and enjoyable world building, but it contains spoilers for those who did not read the previous books.

Let me start off simple. I liked this book. While it will not satisfy that demon in you that wants realism and balltes and betrayal that is believable, it is a rather humorous account that spans an incredible amount of time, which is interesting, being read by us humans who have so little of it in the scheme of things. Eddings manages to contain well-placed humor and seriousness within this book that draws you in. While Belgarath the Sorceror will not go down in history as one of the best fantasy books, neither will it's author, who is normally only meager at best. But this is quite realistically one of his greatest works and worth a look.

Well, this book takes off immediately (I MEAN the same second) after "THE SEERESS OF KELL" and than it goes WAY back. I had the luck to start this right after I finished SEERESS and I must say that it is a nice broadening of the Belgariad/Malloreon series. No, I didn't want to know everything that happend before Garion and his friends left Faldors Farm, I just enjoyed this book because it is a pretty good read and on par with the other works of Eddings (or, as we know now: the both Eddings). People who liked the aforementioned series should definitely read this: It has the same tone and the same style as the other books, only the structure is a little bit different. Well, as you can guess now, I loved it. NOW, some warnings: People who read the BEL/MAL series and want something new, should skip this. The next point: Although this book was conceived as a stand-alone-novel, it isn't. Or it doesn't succeed. I would not recommend this book to readers who haven't read the BELGARIAD / MALLOREON series. Unless "you know your way around" this particular world, you will be confused by this wide array of characters, countries, kings, queens and gods - this book does not work as a guide - it expects you to know already at least something about this world. Furthermore: You'll not understand the numerous side-remarks to the characters from the other novels which Belgarath, the fictional author of this novel, inserted between the tale. You can ignore them, but then you'll miss most of the fun. Finally, a warning to all readers, Eddings-Fans and new ones alike: This book starts REALLY slow. Don't let the first 100-200 pages discourage you, this book GETS BETTER and is a lot of fun. Polgara, I'm waiting for your tale now..

Look, you don't read David Eddings for classic literature, you read him for the cool sorcery, the sharply drawn characters and a sense of humor.
Belgarath the Sorcerer delivers, but it's definitely of the meat and potatoes variety. It's a trip down memory lane for those who have waded through the Belgariad and the Mallorean (which both became progressively more ponderous and lacking in new ideas).
The fact that this book even exists suggests that Mr. Eddings is running either a bit low on new ideas, or his bank account, or both.

Alright, let's be honest folks. Eddings has once again delivered us a story revolving around the same characters (ie Belgerath, Polgara, Garion) However, these are characters that I for one cherish reading about. It is because of this fact that I do not particularly mind the repitition within the work. I want to hear more about the characters. I like knowing just what is a 6000-plus year old hero doing all that time. Maybe Eddings isn't breaking new ground, but he at least has solid footing. I highly reccommend this novel to any Eddings' fan, but suggest that you wait until reading both the Belgariad and the Mallorean before starting it. Belgarath the Sorceror is an entertaining follow up to these two 5 book series, and answers a lot of questions which were remaining along the way. Also, it makes a nice bridge into Polgara the Sorceress which I am currently reading (which is very similar to the rest of the series as well) To sum up, Eddings' fans who are looking to continue their Belgariad enjoyment should read this work, just don't expect anything new.

I've been reading Eddings now for nearly 10 years and his "Garion" books are by far the best. Truthfully, though, I wouldn't have been as big a fan if I had actually started with the first book. I read Belgarath the Sorcerer first and fell in love with it.

Eddings' fantasy world, in my opinion, far outstrips any other series I've read simply because of the development he put into it. Cultures, a complex history, a medieval society with a bit of modernism thrown in... I get tired of barbaric worlds with "dangerous," unsettled lands. Eddings gives us actual countries with political complexities.

My sister first introduced me to the Belgariad when I was 7. I had often laughed at her for sitting for weeks on end, burried in those books... I finaly found out why. Finding myself instantainiously gripped by the story, and all the wonderful characters, such as; (Bel)Garion, Polgara, Belgarath... and so on and so on... I ended up not beeing able to go anywhere without my precious books... which is the main reason why I have had to replace them each about 4 times...I simply read them to pieces...
One day, shopping with my parents, I suddently saw this book. I spent the rest of the day hopping around it, hoping my parents would buy it...and at last they did.
Now, I have made it my life goal to buy the whole series, as I havent read the Malloreon yet. I am looking forward to once again be gripped by the tale... to once again let the thoughts flow... to immagine beeing that little boy in Sendaria...suddently dragged off to the end of the world and back...in search of a stone...
I can't wait.
A word of warning though, Once you have read one book, YOU HAVE TO READ THEM ALL! RESISTENCE IS FUTILE! Kind regards Yago

Alright, let's be honest folks. Eddings has once again delivered us a story revolving around the same characters (ie Belgerath, Polgara, Garion) However, these are characters that I for one cherish reading about. It is because of this fact that I do not particularly mind the repitition within the work. I want to hear more about the characters. I like knowing just what is a 6000-plus year old hero doing all that time. Maybe Eddings isn't breaking new ground, but he at least has solid footing. I highly reccommend this novel to any Eddings' fan, but suggest that you wait until reading both the Belgariad and the Mallorean before starting it. Belgarath the Sorceror is an entertaining follow up to these two 5 book series, and answers a lot of questions which were remaining along the way. Also, it makes a nice bridge into Polgara the Sorceress which I am currently reading (which is very similar to the rest of the series as well) To sum up, Eddings' fans who are looking to continue their Belgariad enjoyment should read this work, just don't expect anything new.

Well, this book takes off immediately (I MEAN the same second) after "THE SEERESS OF KELL" and than it goes WAY back. I had the luck to start this right after I finished SEERESS and I must say that it is a nice broadening of the Belgariad/Malloreon series. No, I didn't want to know everything that happend before Garion and his friends left Faldors Farm, I just enjoyed this book because it is a pretty good read and on par with the other works of Eddings (or, as we know now: the both Eddings). People who liked the aforementioned series should definitely read this: It has the same tone and the same style as the other books, only the structure is a little bit different. Well, as you can guess now, I loved it. NOW, some warnings: People who read the BEL/MAL series and want something new, should skip this. The next point: Although this book was conceived as a stand-alone-novel, it isn't. Or it doesn't succeed. I would not recommend this book to readers who haven't read the BELGARIAD / MALLOREON series. Unless "you know your way around" this particular world, you will be confused by this wide array of characters, countries, kings, queens and gods - this book does not work as a guide - it expects you to know already at least something about this world. Furthermore: You'll not understand the numerous side-remarks to the characters from the other novels which Belgarath, the fictional author of this novel, inserted between the tale. You can ignore them, but then you'll miss most of the fun. Finally, a warning to all readers, Eddings-Fans and new ones alike: This book starts REALLY slow. Don't let the first 100-200 pages discourage you, this book GETS BETTER and is a lot of fun. Polgara, I'm waiting for your tale now..

I've been reading Eddings now for nearly 10 years and his "Garion" books are by far the best. Truthfully, though, I wouldn't have been as big a fan if I had actually started with the first book. I read Belgarath the Sorcerer first and fell in love with it.

Eddings' fantasy world, in my opinion, far outstrips any other series I've read simply because of the development he put into it. Cultures, a complex history, a medieval society with a bit of modernism thrown in... I get tired of barbaric worlds with "dangerous," unsettled lands. Eddings gives us actual countries with political complexities.

My sister first introduced me to the Belgariad when I was 7. I had often laughed at her for sitting for weeks on end, burried in those books... I finaly found out why. Finding myself instantainiously gripped by the story, and all the wonderful characters, such as; (Bel)Garion, Polgara, Belgarath... and so on and so on... I ended up not beeing able to go anywhere without my precious books... which is the main reason why I have had to replace them each about 4 times...I simply read them to pieces...
One day, shopping with my parents, I suddently saw this book. I spent the rest of the day hopping around it, hoping my parents would buy it...and at last they did.
Now, I have made it my life goal to buy the whole series, as I havent read the Malloreon yet. I am looking forward to once again be gripped by the tale... to once again let the thoughts flow... to immagine beeing that little boy in Sendaria...suddently dragged off to the end of the world and back...in search of a stone...
I can't wait.
A word of warning though, Once you have read one book, YOU HAVE TO READ THEM ALL! RESISTENCE IS FUTILE! Kind regards Yago

I always like Belegarath from his sense of dry humor to his ability to tell great stories. Well this book was his greatest of all his stories and helped fill in alot of gaps which where left out previous to Pawn of Prophecy. I hope Eddings writes Beldin the Hunchbacked or something like that I think that would be the best individual personal history story ever. I would like to see from other people who write reviews after me name a Sorcerer they would like to have a book written after.

Belgarath. One simple word. A word that means so much. To an ordinary man, Belgarath is nothing. To an Eddings fan, Belgarath is everything. From the start of the Belgariad, through to the end of the Malloreon, he was there, as were you...the reader. This book is an "answer all questions" type of read. It's basically the tale of how he became the figure that he currently is. It begins early in life and progresses through many, many years of EVENTS. Encounters with Aldur, Beldin, Polgara, Chamdar and of course Torak are all chronicled. The significance of many of the EVENTS are explained. The style in which the book is written captivates you from the start. It is indeed a page-turner filled with sadness, anger, joy, and even humour. The autobiographical feel was also something appealing. Belgarath even hints at who really runs the world, and his opinion gets you thinking. Mr. Eddings has done it again and I look forward to any future works of his, as all his past are masterpieces. If you've even wondered "why?" acquire this book. If you've ever wondered "who?" acquire this book. Or, if you just want a good read, acquire this book and you'll see why the Eddings duo are the true sorcerers of the literary world.

The Belgariad began with a wonderful, original and insightful story, with unique characters who had a vast potential for personality growth. By the time Eddings reaches Belgarath the Sorcerer, however, the quality has plummeted into nothing more than trite, overused words filling the pages. The story itself had so much potential, but the writing and characters were written so poorly that the book was difficult to read without becoming frustrated. The author attempts to make the narrative amusing with smart comments and the like, but what this actually achieves is making Belgarath the sorcerer, the powerful, insightful, complex man, into a peevish, cranky, one-dimensional character. What's more, the characters have all become flat and dull - the dialogue that springs from the mouth of any character could just as easily come from any other, with its weak attempts at sharp tongued witticisms and hopeless characterization. All females are portrayed as manipulative; all males are portrayed as hot tempered lunkheads. Do yourself a favour: If you enjoyed the belgariad, don't bother with this book as it will ruin the entire experience for you.

I found the personal viewpoint and pointed asides extremely interesting. I refuse to call it the best book I've ever read, but it ranks very high up there. It fills in most of the gaps in the Belgeriad and Mallorean series, and the few remaing gaps are explained in Polgara the Sorceress. I seriously recommend this book as a valuable addition to anyone's David Eddings collection.

It was amazing...You have to read both the Belgariad and the Mallorian first or you wont understand some of it. The story fills in the blanks that were left after Eddings finished the two previous series. We all know that Belgarath is probably the funniest character in the whole story, and this is the story of his life. Some of it was a little slow going, but the rest of the story made up for that little tidbit of slowness. I loved this story, and highly recommend it to you iff(if and only if) you absolutely loved the Belgariad and the Mallorian. READ IT! READ IT! READ IT! I DON'T CARE HOW, BUT READ IT!!!!!

The book said nothing new and the characters tend to irritate after a while, but what I really want to comment on is some of the other reviews from British readers. If your going to share your views all well and good but please spell things correctly or you make us all look stupid in front of the Americans. Im currently in America and learning firsthand how incredibly dim this race is.

The crowning achievement of both the Belgariad and the Mallorean. I was waiting for this book since I was quite young and picked up "Pawn of Prophecy" at the store. I waited until I thought I was going to explode for each new book in the series to come out, and after waiting soooo long, all I can say is it was worth every moment! This series of twelve books is my most precious collection in my stacks of books, they make me laugh, shout for joy, weep tears of sadness and brings me into a world as real as the one you ar I live in. I love them all, Durnik, Barak, Silk, Garion, Ce'Nedra and all the rest....yes you too Yarblek. If I could do but one thing in this life it would be to seek out Mr. Eddings and thank him for writing such a series of books that has made my life better by reading them over and over again. Thank you!!!!!!!

I read this book first before buying the Mallorean and Belgariad series. I'm glad I did. This book makes you wonder and think of the characters. Infact, at the end the end of this book, i was so shocked of how it ended! THAT'S what made me get the series and also the Polagra book! I just HAD to know how it began and ended. I love an author that can do that to his readers!
This book is a great overview of the 2 series! His portrayal of Belgarath is very comical and heartwarming. Whenever i need a good book, i'm sure to pick up and reread this book or start the series all over again.
This book is made to delight the reader. If you are inclined to dissect a book and its author, then you need to relax and let yourself go with this book. This book will let you wonder and feel that you are with Belgarath.

David Eddings and his wife have done Justice as it should be done. The way the books tells the story of the Sorcerer Belgarath and his life is awsome. If you have read the series that go along with the book, it would mean even more than you think. This book is the one of the best books that has ever been written. If you haven't read it, read it

The career of David Eddings is a perfect example of how commercial success can take an interesting, innovative, naturally talented author and turn them into a pulp-churning hack, forced to endlessly reinvent the same story for a public hungry for quantity... no matter that every story he's written has the same plot, the same characters, the same jokes and banter between characters.
The rot set in around half way through the Mallorean and Ellenium... he was producing both of these at the same time, and it became obvious he didn't really have any new ideas for either of them. I stuck with them though, right through to the Tamuli. When that clunking, awkward clone of the Ellenium finished, it was obvious he'd completely run out of ideas... yet I still purchased Belgarath... Surely he could do something decent by focusing on one of the more interesting characters he's created? Unfortunately not. The whole book feels rushed, and Eddings's once fluid and enjoyable writing style now feels forced and unnatural.

Well, it feels just like the Belgariad. I initially liked the Belgariad a lot, but the problem is that it is the same thing over and over. The characters are pretty much one-dimensional. The humor is the same over and over, not so humorous anymore. Also, the enemies never pose a real threat to the heroes, there's no tension or drama because the "good guys" are all smug and the bad guys are incompetent.
But if you slogged through the series which does have a pleasant homey feel to it then you're obliged to read this which neatly ties up all of the history of Eddings' world.

If you are truly interested in reading more of the same drivel that he has pumped out since the Diamond Throne then go right ahead and get this nicely expensive book that will contribute to his royalties...and persuade him to make more boring rehashes of the same characters...COME ON DAVID...Have some originality that many other authors have

After reading the Belgariad and the Mallorean series, this book takes you back to the beginning of it all. It explains the origins of the young man who becomes Belgarath, and skirts the edges of the Brotherhood of Sorcerers. It also nicely fills in the gaps from the beginning to the battle of Vo Mimbre. A great book for the Fantasy reader, and I highly recommend the series.

I never even heard of David Eddings before I found this book. It was long, but I finished it all the way to the end. After reading the book, I became interested on the other books written by David. First I read all of the Mallareon and then the Belgariad. Thanks for providing me a book that could spark my interest, David!!

Belgarath the Sorcer was a great book. I liked how it showed things from belgaraths point of view. The bad thing about the book was that it went through a long period of time. I know it told you it was going to do this but i still don't agree with his methed's. If i spelled anything wrong do not blame me i'm only 12

I have read every single book of Eddings' fantasy serieses(except Polgara's story) and I have liked some of them but this book is merely a long overview. There is nothing very amazing and new in this book and it isn't deep story. It was quite boring to read it and it took long time to finish, which is quite unusual for me.

Read this only after you've read the Belgariad/Mallorean series and don't mind getting a different view of the character of Belgarath.
BtS begins where "Seeress of Kell" left off: in the Vale of Aldur, where the family has gathered to witness the births of Polgara's and Durnik's twins. Soon after, the topic of Belgarath's true past comes up, and Belgarion, Durnik, Ce'Nedra and Polgara begin to bully Belgarath about writing his memoirs. Belgarath remains obstinate until his wife Poledra suggests that memoirs would be a fine idea indeed. Having no choice anymore, Belgarath unhappily hunkers down to tell the story of his life.
In the days when the gods walked the earth, he was born in the ancient pastoral village of Gara and orphaned young, gaining himself the name of Garath, "of the town of Gara." Here he learned to steal, lie, and cheat in order to survive. In his own words, "Larceny seethed in my grubby little soul." The boy Garath runs away, stays awhile with the cursed people of Ulgos, and eventually finds his way to the Vale of Aldur. Lost, cold, starving, angry with the harshness of life and ready to die, he is taken in by a kind stranger: the god Aldur.
Garath the boy-thief grows into Belgarath the Disciple. Here, the other disciples appear, some of them through hilarious situations that only Eddings can pen. Zedar ("he looked like a Tolnedran, or possibly an Arend" - an insult), Kira and Tira the Alorns, Makor the Melcene, Sambar the Angarak, and Din the Dwarf. Each of these sorcerers is well-made and unique and for the most part, fit with the later/previous stories.
Unfortunately, Belgarath's character takes a turn here from the colorful character we learned to love in Belgariad/Mallorean. It seems he isn't really quite as bright as we thought him to be. One would think that someone his age would have learned a thing or two in his lifetime. You may say "Well, he's Belgarath, he's taking liberties with his story." Still, his tales aren't what one would expect from someone as accomplished as Mister Wolf the traveling storyteller. There are far too many discrepancies between this book and the previous ten. There are times even his cunning seems more accidental than planned. The old Belgarath was more fun: the rootless vagabond who drank too much, gambled, chased women ("wenching" - only Eddings could use the term with such aplomb), pocketed things that interested him. The old Belgarath sat in smoky taverns drinking himself into high spirits while he winked at passing barmaids. Since BtS was obviously written after the local Temperance League got their hands on Eddings, we learn that Belgarath wasn't really drinking... he was just making it LOOK like he was. He was only pretending to be drunk so the scary Murgos wouldn't notice him. He wasn't really winking at the pretty barmaids, he was just blinking from all the soot in the air. He wasn't really snoozing in the saddle, he was actually calculating the number of blankets he would need to keep the army warm. His stained, worn, mismatched clothing wasn't accumulated through travels and travails but was carefully designed by the best tailors on the continent. While this new true Belgarath may be politically correct, the old one was more entertaining. The idea of the most powerful sorcerer in the world having numerous flaws and vices made him more believable. Remember, Polgara feared that Belgarath would be a bad influence on the young ones. He wasn't perfect. Well he is now, except for having fewer working brain cells. As strange as this may sound, I felt betrayed.
Eddings strains with some of the other major characters in the book. Just because Fulrach and Anheg, Silk and Barak behaved in certain ways shouldn't mean all of their ancestors behaved the same way. Some were indistinguishable from their descendants. On the other hand, the various Salmissras were almost caricaturish in their differences.
The Eddings Duo kept their smooth writing style present in the previous ten, and the humor is as sharp as always. When I finished BtS I went back and reread the entire Ten, and alas, Belgarath wasn't the same exciting character I had loved for years.

J. P. Linton's dramatized narration is either overdone or underdone to the point that it sounds forced. Listening to it was laaborously cumbersome; thus I could not finish listening past chapter three.

The talented and usually infuriating Belgarath the Sorcerer tells of his fantastic lifetime in this wonderfully written book by David and Leigh Eddings. It had all the qualities a fantasy book calls for- suspense, adventure, humor, and the occasional teary moment. An absolutely fabulous work of art

This book gives a great insight into the REAL Belgarath, the person who has as wonderful a sense of humour as Silk, only less evident in the Belgariad. I'm glad that the Eddingses have cleared up the mystery behind Belgarath's antecedents. It should be on every bookshelf-- truly a merry read!

This book was really cool. I love fantasy books and this is my all time favorite except for Polgara the Sorceress. I think it's great that he wrote the story from Belgarath's point of view. I hope he writes many more books that are as good as this one! READ THIS BOOK IT'S EXCELLENT!!!

Bravo on this excellent piece of work! If you have read
both the Mallorean and Belgariad, this book provides more
information and backround on the famous (yet mysterious)
Belgarath, Polgara, and many others. Once I picked up this
book, it never left my hands. I could not put it down nor
stop reading until I reached the end of the book. And when
that ending came, I grew dissapointed that there was
no more left to be read. Oh well.......I picked it back up
again and read it from cover to cover. Truly a wonderful
story that is a concoction of romance, adventure, and swirling mystery. "Belgarath the Sorcerer" will hook you
and make you fall in love with the artworks of
David and Leigh Eddings! :-)

The book said nothing new and the characters tend to irritate after a while, but what I really want to comment on is some of the other reviews from British readers. If your going to share your views all well and good but please spell things correctly or you make us all look stupid.

This book is a prequel to the Belgariad. While the book keeps the classic humor of Belgarath, it does diminish the mystique of Belgarath with self depreciating comments. Woe to the beginning reader who unwittingly reads this book first before reading the Belgariad

Husband & wife team finally reveal that they have both been authors of all the books! In Belgarath they provide fans with insight into the Eternal Man and how he came to be. Humorous, insightful, entertaining and above all, comfortable - like a visit with old friends. Readers get to see aspects of the distinguished, regal Polgara when she was a child with dirty knees climbing trees. I strongly recommend this book to readers of the Eddings' other two series, but not to first time readers - Check out the Belgariad first. One big disappointment was that the sex of Polgara's twins has not yet been revealed!! I guess we'll just have to wait for the next book...Polgara the Sorceress