Chapter 1 Summary

The Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks seems to be set on Earth but after the fall of science due to a catastrophic war. Now magic reigns and only a select few have limited knowledge of the old science. The landscape and physical attributes of the planet have changed and now many races have appeared such as Elves, Gnomes, Dwarves, Trolls and Humans. The story follows two brothers who become reluctant heroes to save their family, friends, and world from subjugation. Lasting bonds form among friends, acquaintances, thieves, races, and traveling companions. This is the first novel written in the Shannara series and teaches the importance of valuing the contribution each person makes to society.

Flick Ohmsford, a young, stocky man, enters the forest on his way home to his father's Inn in the Shady Vale. He likes to travel and hear the...