Review: On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness

I was so excited to read through these new versions of Andrew Peterson's On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness. My family loved reading this series aloud several years ago when my kids were ages 10 to 16, so we were so excited to read them again with the new editions. The artwork is fantastic and the hardcopy is perfect. This book will be on our family bookshelf for years to come! 

This time around we read this book aloud to my bigger kids now 14-21 and they still loved it. Andrew Peterson is a master wordsmith. He shifts effortlessly in between humor, suspense, and poetry. There are only a few fantasy novels that present a truer world than realistic fiction. Peterson's characters and atmosphere are imaginative yet real. You can tell that as an author he really cares about the story. It's almost like he's welcoming you into his family and sharing his heart with you. 

On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness is the first of four books in the Wingfeather Saga, but it could be read as a stand alone story. While you know the story continues—and you want it to—Peterson leaves the first novel at a resting point. Your heart may need a minute to breathe and process the story before devouring the next book!

On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness by Andrew Peterson
Published by WaterBrook & Multnomah on March 10, 2020
Genres: Children's, Fantasy, Fiction, Young Adult
Pages: 304
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Now in hardcover for the first time, featuring all-new illustrations! 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, and their disabled 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 they love to survive the evil pursuit of the venomous Fangs of Dang, who have crossed the dark sea to rule the land with malice. The Igibys hold the secret to the lost legend and jewels of good King Wingfeather of the Shining Isle of Anniera.
Full of characters rich in heart, smarts, and courage, On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness is a tale children of all ages will cherish, families can read aloud, and readers' groups are sure to enjoy discussing for its many layers of meaning. Extra features include new interior illustrations from Joe Sutphin, funny footnotes, a map of the fantastical world, inventive appendices, and fanciful line art in the tradition of the original Frank L. Baum Wizard of Oz storybooks.

As one who has read through the whole series before, coming back to this first book has had new depth and enjoyment as I know where the story is going. This to me is the mark of a great series. Peterson reveals just enough to get you invested in his characters, but leaves you wanting more. Believe me—the next books deliver! I can't wait to experience these again with my family. 

I received this book from Netgalley for my review, but then I purchased the hard copy for myself and a friend. It is so good. All thoughts and opinions are my own!