What books are Shadow and Bone based off of?
Shadow and Bone, the first book in Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse series, has captivated readers with its rich world-building and compelling characters. While Bardugo’s novel is a standalone story, it draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including classic literature, historical events, and other fantasy works. In this article, we will explore the books that have influenced the creation of Shadow and Bone and how they have shaped the unique world that Bardugo has crafted.
The Influence of Classic Literature
One of the most significant influences on Shadow and Bone is J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. Both series feature a diverse cast of characters, an epic quest, and a world that is both magical and real. Tolkien’s use of language and his attention to detail in describing landscapes and creatures have clearly influenced Bardugo’s writing style.
Another classic that has had a profound impact on Shadow and Bone is George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series. Like Martin’s novels, Bardugo’s story is complex and involves political intrigue, power struggles, and a large cast of characters. The use of magic in both series also plays a crucial role in the plot and character development.
Historical Events and Inspirations
The political and social structures in Shadow and Bone are inspired by historical events and real-world governments. The use of a Grand Duchy, similar to the Russian Empire, and the concept of a tsar as a figurehead ruler are drawn from historical examples. Additionally, the idea of a divided world, with one half living in darkness and the other in light, reflects the historical division of Europe during the Cold War.
Bardugo’s inspiration for the magic system in Shadow and Bone also comes from real-world events. The “Small Science” and “Darkling” in the novel are reminiscent of the nuclear age and the fear of a new dark age brought on by the use of atomic power.
Other Fantasy Works
Several other fantasy novels have contributed to the development of Shadow and Bone. Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials series, with its parallel worlds and the concept of Dust, has had a significant influence on Bardugo’s work. The use of a “Window of Opportunity” in Shadow and Bone, which allows characters to travel between different realms, is inspired by Pullman’s “Subtle AI.”
Ursula K. Le Guin’s The Left Hand of Darkness and its exploration of gender and politics have also played a role in shaping the world of Shadow and Bone. The novel’s focus on the importance of relationships and the impact of societal norms on individuals is reminiscent of Le Guin’s work.
Conclusion
Shadow and Bone is a rich and complex novel that draws inspiration from a variety of sources. From classic literature to historical events and other fantasy works, Bardugo has woven together a world that is both familiar and new. By examining the books that have influenced Shadow and Bone, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the novel’s themes and the intricate world that Bardugo has created.
