Eldest
Knopf Books for Young Readers 2006
Book 2 of The Inheritance Cycle
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 6.2 (6th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Book 2 in a series — earlier books first
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Genre
Themes
- coming of age
- destiny and choice
- loyalty and friendship
- rebellion against tyranny
- mentorship and training
- identity and heritage
- courage
- power and responsibility
About this book
Eldest continues Eragon’s epic journey as he travels to train as a Dragon Rider and learn to control his growing powers. As war spreads across Alagaësia, he must strengthen his bond with Saphira and decide where his loyalties truly lie. Rich world-building, sweeping battles, and deep lore make this a favorite for teens who love long, immersive fantasy adventures. Ideal for strong readers ready for complex plots, political intrigue, and dragons.
Setting: the fantasy realm of Alagaësia—elven forests, dwarf cities, and war-torn frontiers
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Eldest right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Eldest. The reading level is AR 6.2, which is typical for 6th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include coming of age, destiny and choice, loyalty and friendship. Note: this is book 2 in a series — your child should read the earlier books first.
How long does it take to read Eldest?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Eldest takes around 20h to finish. The book has 213,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Eldest have an AR quiz?
Yes — Eldest has an AR quiz available, worth 36 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Eldest?
Eldest has an AR reading level of 6.2, which places it at a 6th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.