The Book of Atrus was brought about because of Myst, a CD-Rom video game released in 1993. The graphic adventure puzzle game alone was intriguing and begged for backstory. The two sibling creators decided to give the players just that. In the game, you find yourself on an island and are first introduced to a man named Atrus by way of a secret message. The first of the three-book series however recounts the life of young Atrus and his special god-like ancestry. I personally felt a connection with these books because they link back to so many pivotal things in my teenage life. Having my first computer, my passion for reading, and my love of writing. Atrus’ ancestors are a people called the D’ni and while I will try and not spoil anything, these are a lost people who, using the D’ni language, are able to not only Write worlds that they call Ages into existence, but visit, explore, and even live within them. As a reader, I feel much of this is what a writer does for their audience by creating and transporting the reader to an entirely make-believe place. Many times, as Atrus is learning the Art of his forefathers, the young apprentice struggles with making everything perfect and able to work together by using the perfect words or phrasing. This among many other things makes him vastly different than his power-hungry father and teacher and causes strife between the two. Gehn wants his son to simply create Ages that function and skip the flourishing details that give his Ages their heart. I feel this as a writer, wanting so badly to create something delightful for my readers. This book is not a fast-paced, heart-thumping thriller but is wonderful in its lore and science and is far underrated in its uniqueness and sometimes mind-bending imagery. The cover art and simple but beautiful charcoal drawings throughout the book give it a distinct historic impression. This book is easily one of my very top favorites. I’d like to mention that the two of the Ages mentioned within this book can be experienced through Myst’s first release in ’93 as well as the remastered 3D version and sequels to the original. Myst has also recently been released in stunning virtual reality. The best part is both the books and the games can be enjoyed apart from each other.

“You must remember what you have learned here, Atrus. I have tried to teach you the mechanics of the earth and stars; the ways of science and the workings of nature. I have tried to teach you what is good and what is to be valued, truths which cannot be shaken or changed. This knowledge is from the Maker. Take it with you and weigh everything your father teaches you against it . . . I no longer know him, but I know you, Atrus. Measure your own deeds against the truths I have taught you. If you act for self-gain then no good can come of it. If you act selflessly, then you act well for all and you must not be afraid.” –Anna