Background
Published in 2016, “The Knights of Crystallia” is the third installment in Brandon Sanderson’s Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians series. (It was originally published by Scholastic in October 2009 under the title Alcatraz Versus the Knights of Crystallia. After Sanderson reacquired the rights, Tor Books re-released the novel on April 19, 2016.)
In this adventure, Alcatraz Smedry finally reaches the Free Kingdoms, specifically the city of Crystallia. There, he confronts new challenges, including political intrigue and familial responsibilities, all while continuing his battle against the Evil Librarians. The narrative delves deeper into the Free Kingdoms’ culture and the Smedry family’s unique talents, blending Sanderson’s characteristic humor with action and fantasy elements.
My Thoughts
The plot thickens as Alcatraz finally visits his home. Like a similar orphan with powers (cough… Potter), he is a big deal in the world unknown to we simple harshlanders (muggles). But enough on that.
Alcatraz is a fun character and continues to build into his eventual epic self. I worry it is moving a little too fast in terms of what he can do and his comfort level given we are on book 3 of 5. (E.g. The ease in assuming the leadership status and the power in his “Talent”. Sanderson has had a history of over inflating his heroes toward the end of the series. Several even made it to god status (“little g”, to borrow from Starlord’s father Ego.) I also feel the series would benefit from him being a little older in this book, though I’m assuming Sanderson is trying to stave off the relationship with Bastille as keeping them young keeps their relationship more the in puppy love status.
Regardless, it’s been an enjoyable ride thus far and I’m looking forward to the next book.
Recommendation
A great quick read.