Rithmatist Book Group Discussion

Questions form Goodreads about The Rithmatist
1. Did this book remind you of any other books you have read, either in the setting or in the way the characters interacted?

2. Who was your favorite character? Why?

3. What did you like/dislike about the magic system used? Did the diagrams between chapters help to clarify or make it more entertaining? 

4. How does Joel react to being left out of the Rithmatist students (and other students) at Armedius Academy? What point is Sanderson making?

5. If you could be a Rithmatist, would you choose to be one? Why or why not?

6. What is Joel's reaction to being able to help out with the investigation? Why is this? Do you think you would have reacted the same way?

7. Do you think that Nalizar was really trying to help Joel and Melody during the confrontation with Inspector Harding / The Forgotten?

8. After seeing how he could work with Melody to duel, do you think that Joel will still want to be a Rithmatist? How is their teamwork different from other Rithmatists? What effects could this have?

9. What were your initial thoughts when Joel did not become a Rithmatist after his second chance? Were you expecting it? Do you suppose there is some other way to become a Rithmatist? 

10. The ending definitely leaves room for a sequel, which is supposedly in the works but will not be published for a while yet. What part do you think Nalizar (as well as Melody and Joel) will play in the next book?

11. Would you consider reading another book by Sanderson? 


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1. Who was your favorite character? Least favorite?

2. Were there any parts of the book that really stood out to you?

3. Was there anything you didn't like about the book? Why?

4. What do you think we're going to get in the sequel? 

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8. Why did the kidnapper embark on his spree? Do you think any one individual—even Joel—could have stopped him?

9. At the end of the novel, the “Professor Fitch” Melee team of Joel and Melody impress their audience because “…they were two students who didn’t just duel. They fought. They understood.” (p. 369) What is the difference between fighting and dueling?

How might Joel and Melody’s perceived weaknesses in Rithmatics have led to this impressive victory?

Have you ever struggled with a weakness, such as a learning difficulty or family problem, that has ultimately made you stronger?

 10. What are your feelings about Nalizar at the end of the novel?

Does this remind you of any other novels?

Do you think he was trying to harm or save Joel and Melody during their heroic encounter with the kidnapper?

11. Where is Joel at the end of the novel?

How would you describe the danger facing the world now that the kidnapping mystery has been solved?

What role do you feel Joel ought to play in this ongoing battle?

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http://thebooksmugglers.com/2013/05/the-rithmatist-a-chat-with-brandon-sanderson.html