Got this from Bookmooch.com so that I can complete the set.

Belgarath the sorcerer has lived for thousands of years and been instrumental in bringing about the events described in 'The Belgariad', but the story started a long time before Zedar stole the Orb. In his own words, he tells his story, from being a young orphan chased out of his village to when he met Aldur, the God, who took him on his first disciple. As the centuries role by, he has to balance his own family and personal life, with the Events that keep occuring around him. As the NECCESITY guides him, he influences people and starts in motion things that won't have an influence for many, many years, but all aim to produce the Child of LIght, who will finally stand against the mad God Torak.

Strangely, I didn't enjoy this as much as the books themselves, I think mainly because it is in first person, which I always feels takes away a bit of the drama. It still has Edding's sense of humour and I did like reading through the bits that are glossed over in the Belgariad. I think I should probably have read the Mallorean as well - the story told here doesn't give much of a background to it, but some things are mentioned that I think crop up in the later books. But never mind, not too much of a spoiler :)

So overall, an enjoyable read.

Sent to America as a surprise RABCK

Received this wonderful surprise in the mail today!! How very thoughtful -- Thank you!! I look forward to reading it soon!