“First, let no one rule your mind or body. Take special care that your thoughts remain unfettered... . Give men your ear, but not your heart. Show respect for those in power, but don't follow them blindly. Judge with logic and reason, but comment not. Consider none your superior whatever their rank or station in life. Treat all fairly, or they will seek revenge. Be careful with your money. Hold fast to your beliefs and others will listen.”

American and Italian author

Christopher James Paolini is an American and Italian author. He is best known for The Inheritance Cycle, the fantasy series that began with Eragon and continued with Eldest, Brisingr, and Inheritance. His later work includes The Fork, the Witch, and the Worm, a short story collection set in the same world, and Murtagh, the first book in a follow-up duology. He also wrote his first science fiction novel, To Sleep in a Sea of Stars, published in 2020. He lives in Paradise Valley, Montana, where he wrote his first book.