Rithmatist (series)
The Rithmatist series is a young adult fantasy series written by American author Brandon Sanderson. At least two books are planned in the series: The Rithmatist (2013) and a second volume, titled The Atzlanian, is planned. Setting. The world in which "The Rithmatist" is set is similar to the recent past of our own but with complex geared machinery, known as "springwork", taking the role of technologies that would, in reality, usually be powered by electricity or steam. At 8 years old, children undergo a religious ceremony known as Inception, during which the child's fate is decided : fewer than 1 in 1000 are chosen to become Rithmatists. Rithmatists are warriors. They use geometric patterns of chalk (Lines) to perform magic with physical effects. Lines may shield a user, attack an opponent or animate a creature known as a Chalkling which will do the Rithmatist's bidding. Rithmatists are humanity's primary defence against the mysterious Wild Chalklings. After graduating, a Rithmatist is expected to spend time in Nebrask actively using their gift and training to wage war, protecting the United American Isles from the threat of Wild Chalklings escaping The Tower. The story mainly takes place at  Armedius Academy, one of 8 schools that trains and teaches Rithmatists, alongside non-Rithmatists with rich or important families. Plot. "The Rithmatist" follows the story of Joel, a teenage boy who is enrolled at and lives on the campus of Armedius Academy. He isn't a Rithmatist, yet is interested in the study of Rithmatist power. Joel, eager to know more about Rithmatics, helps a professor at Armedius Academy when students of the school start disappearing—kidnapped and presumed dead. Sequel. According to Sanderson, at least one other novel will be published in the Rithmatist series. The sequel is tentatively  titled "The Aztlanian". Brandon does not plan to work on it until he has finished the Alcatraz series. One of the reasons Brandon hasn't worked on the sequel, yet, is that it will deal with Native American culture and he wants to be sure to treat the subject matter with due respect. Reception. Patrick Ness wrote in "The New York Times" that "the world of the novel is nicely fleshed out", but "there is almost no action until the climax". The book was named one of the "Notable Children's Books of 2013" by the "New York Times". Rithmatist