The Dragon Reborn was published by Tor Books in 1991. In a bold structural choice, Jordan moves Rand al’Thor largely offstage — the protagonist of the previous two books is seen only intermittently, through the eyes of others. The narrative follows three storylines: Perrin tracking Rand while discovering his own connection to wolves; Mat recovering from his corruption and revealing himself as an extraordinarily lucky gambler and fighter; and Egwene and Nynaeve pursuing Black Ajah (evil Aes Sedai) within the White Tower.
The convergence of all storylines at the Stone of Tear — the prophesied location where the Dragon Reborn must draw the crystal sword Callandor — provides a climax that resolves the question of Rand’s identity definitively.
Mat Cauthon
This is the novel where Mat Cauthon comes into his own. Freed from the Shadar Logoth dagger’s corruption, Mat reveals himself as a charming rogue with supernatural luck and formidable fighting skills — a Han Solo figure in a Tolkienian world. His sequences in the novel (escaping the White Tower, fighting Gawyn and Galad simultaneously) are among the most entertaining in the series. Mat would become the fan-favourite character.
The Structural Experiment
Jordan’s decision to sideline his protagonist was daring. Rand’s journey — from the Mountains of Mist to the Stone of Tear — is experienced secondhand, through visions and reports. This creates a different kind of suspense: the reader knows Rand is doing something extraordinary but can only piece together what from fragments. The technique also allows Jordan to develop his supporting cast, establishing them as protagonists in their own right rather than Rand’s satellites.
Collecting The Dragon Reborn
First edition (Tor Books, New York, 1991): Boards with dust jacket.
Approximate market values:
- Fine in dust jacket (first printing): $150–$400
- Signed first edition: $300–$800
Projected values (2026–2036): Moderate appreciation. Strong demand from series collectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Rand barely in this book? Jordan wanted to show Rand’s transformation from the outside — as something awe-inspiring and frightening rather than internally rationalised. The technique works: when Rand appears at the climax, he is genuinely different.
Is this the book where Mat gets good? Yes. Mat’s character transformation in this novel is one of the series’ most celebrated developments.