What Order to Read The Witcher Books: A Discussive Exploration
The Witcher books, by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, have garnered a cult following worldwide. With a rich universe of characters, intricate plots, and an enthralling narrative, these books present a perfect blend of fantasy and adventure. For those looking to delve into the world of The Witcher, the question often arises: what order to read the Witcher books? While there is no definitive answer, here are several viewpoints on how to approach reading the series.
Starting with the Original Short Stories
Many fans suggest starting with the original short stories that Sapkowski wrote before delving into the novels. These stories provide a glimpse into the world of The Witcher and introduce key characters and their conflicts. “Hexer” and “Stonegolem’s Diary” are some of the essential pre-novel short stories that introduce key themes and plotlines.
Reading in Publication Order
Another approach is to read the books in the order they were published. This way, you can follow the storyline as it was intended by Sapkowski and witness the evolution of the universe as it unfolds through each novel. “The Last Wish” serves as a great introduction to the series before diving into the more detailed storylines of subsequent novels.
Go by Theme or Interest
Given that Sapkowski has mentioned multiple times that his stories are non-linear in nature, readers are often encouraged to read them based on their own interests or theme of choice. This method allows the reader to explore areas or aspects they find more captivating in a story first before progressing to other themes in different books. For instance, if you find monster slaying more interesting than political intrigue, you could focus on those aspects first in a particular book.
Assessing Novels vs. Graphic Novels
For those who enjoy visual storytelling, it’s worth mentioning that The Witcher series also has numerous graphic novels and adaptations available. Some readers might enjoy getting familiar with graphic representations of some scenes or plotlines before progressing to books or as part of their journey reading books they are familiar with from other sources. For example, readers can read up about popular tales like “Gwent Diary” and other expansions from comics first before diving into novels with similar themes or plots.
In conclusion, there is no specific order to read The Witcher books as each reader may find their own path within this vast fantasy world. Whether starting with short stories, following publication order, exploring themes or reading from graphic novels first – all are valid ways to immerse in this enchanting tale. The beauty of Sapkowski’s writing lies in its adaptability and flexibility, allowing readers to tailor their reading experience according to their preferences and interests. So, why not embark on this journey of discovery and let your own curiosity guide you through the world of The Witcher?
Related Questions:
Q: What are some essential pre-novel short stories in The Witcher series?
A: Some essential pre-novel short stories include “Hexer,” “Stonegolem’s Diary,” and other tales that introduce key characters and plotlines.
Q: What are some recommended reading orders for The Witcher series?
A: Fans often suggest starting with original short stories, reading in publication order or following themes of interest as valid reading orders for The Witcher series.
Q: Are graphic novels a good way to introduce oneself to The Witcher universe?
A: Absolutely! Graphic novels provide a visual representation of scenes and plotlines, making them a great way to introduce oneself to the world of The Witcher, especially for those who enjoy visual storytelling.