Christmas 2022 brought with it a gift of unexpected adventure: a beautifully bound boxed set of The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson. I’ll admit, I hadn’t heard of the series before, but the intriguing title of the first book, On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness, and the captivating cover art, depicting fantastical creatures and a sense of both whimsy and danger, immediately piqued my curiosity. Little did I know that I was about to embark on a journey into a world as richly imagined as Narnia or Middle-earth, one filled with unforgettable characters, perilous quests, and a depth of heart that has stayed with me long after the final page.
It was a time of uncertainty and transition in my own life. I had recently lost my long-time job, and anxieties about the future swirled around me like autumn leaves caught in a sudden gust. I craved a story that would transport me, offer escape and solace, yet also engage my mind and spirit. Scrolling through Kindle book deals one evening, I stumbled upon On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness. Intrigued, I downloaded the sample, expecting a lighthearted fantasy romp. And while the book delivers on adventure and imagination in spades, it offered something far more profound. By the time I finished the sample, I was completely enchanted, eager to dive deeper into Peterson’s world. The Wingfeather Saga was at the top of my Christmas list, and as soon as I unwrapped that box set, I knew I was in for a treat.
This article is an invitation to fellow adventurers, a chance to dive headfirst into the world of Aerwiar alongside me as we explore the first book in this captivating series. Beware, though, for the waters of this story run deep, and danger lurks beneath even the most enchanting surface.
Welcome to Aerwiar (But Tread Carefully)
We are introduced to Aerwiar through the eyes of the Igiby children: Janner, the responsible but somewhat reluctant older brother; Tink, the curious and inventive middle child; and Leeli, the youngest, whose unwavering optimism and love for stories adds a touch of brightness to even the most perilous situations. The Igiby family, as you’ll soon discover, is a bit… eccentric, to say the least. Their interactions are filled with a warmth and humor that reminded me of my own family—a little bit chaotic, always loving, and never quite what you expect. They’re a family held together by love, even as their differences and internal squabbles threaten to pull them apart. Sound familiar?
Peterson wastes no time in thrusting his characters (and the reader) into a world teeming with both wonder and danger. Aerwiar is a land of ancient forests inhabited by strange and wonderful creatures, towering mountains that hold forgotten secrets, and a coastline perpetually shrouded in mist, its shores menaced by the ominous Dark Sea of Darkness. The very air seems to hum with a sense of magic, both wondrous and perilous, and an ancient evil casts a long shadow over the land.
But amidst the adventure and the shadows, it was Peterson’s wit and humor that truly delighted me. His writing is peppered with clever asides and unexpected observations, many of which are tucked away in footnotes that had me laughing out loud. These little touches add a layer of lightness and self-awareness that never feels out of place, even in the midst of tense situations. It’s clear that Peterson delights in his own creation, and that joy is contagious.
“But amidst the adventure and the shadows, it was Peterson’s wit and humor that truly delighted me. His writing is peppered with clever asides and unexpected observations, many of which are tucked away in footnotes that had me laughing out loud.”
More Than Meets the Eye
At its heart, On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness is a story about courage, loyalty, and the unwavering strength of family, even when those families are messy, frustrating, and far from perfect. The Igiby children, faced with challenges that test their limits and threaten to tear them apart, must learn to rely on each other and discover the true meaning of bravery, not just in grand acts of heroism, but in the everyday choices they make to protect those they love.
Peterson’s storytelling is masterful in its ability to weave together humor, heart, and moments of genuine suspense. He doesn’t shy away from exploring complex themes or challenging his readers to confront difficult questions about faith, loss, and the nature of good and evil. And while the forces of darkness in Aerwiar are formidable, Peterson reminds us that even in the darkest of times, hope and courage have a way of finding their mark.
At its heart, On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness is a story about courage, loyalty, and the unwavering strength of family, even when those families are messy, frustrating, and far from perfect.
A Journey Just Begun
As I finished On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness, I was left with a sense of exhilaration and a heart full of questions. What fate awaits the Igiby children? What secrets lie hidden within the ancient ruins of this world? And what is the true nature of the darkness that threatens to consume everything they hold dear? Peterson masterfully sets the stage for an epic saga, leaving the reader eager to dive into the next installment and uncover the answers that lie ahead.
If you’re searching for a fantasy series that will capture your imagination, challenge your perspectives, and stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page, look no further than The Wingfeather Saga. I invite you to join me on this journey. Start with On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness, and together, let’s explore the wonders and perils of Aerwiar.