Dead.

One of the best high fantasy authors of the modern era, David Eddings, died on the 2nd of June, 2009; 11 days ago.

During the 77 years of his life, and a writing career spanning 36 years, Eddings penned a grand total of five fantasy series:

- The Belgariad
- The Mallorean (sequel series to "The Belgariad")
- The Elenium
- The Tamuli (sequel series to "The Elenium")
- The Dreamers

In addition to this, he published three books relating to the Belgariad and Mallorean, a stand-alone fantasy novel entitled "The Redemption of Althalus" and three non-fantasy books.

David Eddings' death follows the relatively recent death of Robert Jordan, who was the author of best-selling epic fantasy series "The Wheel of Time". Together, novels of Eddings and Jordan make up a sizeable portion of the fantasy section in most bookstores.

As someone who first started reading David Eddings' books seven years ago, and who was the subject of an older sister's endless ranting over various characters from afore-mentioned books, it's hard for me to imagine a world without David Eddings. Now, there will be no opportunity for me to complain about the clichédness of every series he releases - it is doubtful that there will be any posthumous publications.

On a less sarcastic note, it means that every time I turn to the comforts of his fairly enjoyable, un-thought-provoking works, said comfort will be tainted by the knowledge that one of the greats in the genre I hope to one day write - and publish - in, is now, and forever, gone.

R.I.P, David Eddings.