On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness: Adventure. Peril. Lost Jewels. And the Fearsome Toothy Cows of Skree. (Wingfeather Saga, #1) (Wingfeather)

by Andrew Peterson

Once, in a cottage above the cliffs on the Dark Sea of Darkness, there lived three children and their trusty dog Nugget. Janner Igiby, his brother Tink, their crippled sister Leeli are gifted children as all children are, loved well by a noble mother and ex-pirate grandfather. But they will need all their gifts and all that love to survive the evil pursuit of the venomous Fangs of Dang who have crossed the dark sea to rule the land with malice and pursue the Igibys who hold the secret to the lost legend and jewels of good King Wingfeather of the Shining Isle of Anniera.

• ISBN13: 9781400073849
• Publish Date: 18 March 2008 (first published 1 January 2008)
• Publish Status: Out of Print
• Out of Print: 27 January 2021
• Publish Country: US
• Imprint: Waterbrook Press (A Division of Random House Inc)
• Format: Paperback
• Pages: 304
• Language: English

Reviews

[annieb123]

Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness is the first book in the Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson. Originally published in 2008, this reformat and re-release (with new illustrations and content) from Waterbrook, due out 10th March 2020 is 304 pages and will be available in hardcover format (other editions available in other formats).

This is part one of an epic fantasy which reminds me in a lot of ways of the scale of the Chronicles of Narnia or the Lord of the Rings. While it's admittedly not as well written (how could it be?), it does have a similar scope and reach. The author has a tendency to break the fourth wall often (asides to the audience are ok, but it's a device which in my opinion should be used quite sparingly). The footnotes are copious and extensive, and I found them a little tiresome.

The subject matter is largely a battle between good and evil, light and darkness, and a willingness to defend one's beliefs. Although often listed as a Christian selection, I read the book and didn't find -overtly- Christian doctrine or beliefs. It could certainly be read without the reader feeling catechized. The book is appropriate for all ages and there's no rough language or disturbing content.

The eARC which I received for review did not include the new artwork, maps, or addenda, so I can't speak to the quality of those. The cover art is lovely however, and I hope the new reformatted content is as well done.

Four stars. This would make a good selection for a family read, bedtime read, classroom or library circle read.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.