On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness

The Daughter Perspective:

On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness by Andrew Peterson is a mysterious book; it is also an adventurous book. My mom and I read it together.

This book is about three children. Janner is the oldest. He feels responsible for all of the mishaps that happen to his siblings. Tink is the second oldest. He is very mischievous. One minute he is there, the next minute gone. Leeli has a bad leg. She is determined to be strong and, in my opinion, she is the bravest of them all. One day an accident happens and the family is never the same.

Please read this book! It is an amazing book. You will want to read the whole book in one day!

The Mother Perspective:

Originally, I was a fan of author Andrew Peterson’s music.  His Americana style and storytelling lyrics won me over.  Then I became a fan of his blog, The Rabbit Room.  Discussions of art and the kingdom of God made me think in ways I hadn’t before.  It was only recently that I experienced his talent as an author, when Piper decided she wanted to read On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness (which we bought at the Inkwell conference where he spoke a year ago).  I was not disappointed.

Peterson weaves a fantasy tale that is equal parts funny, suspenseful, and  moving.  The Igiby children are relatable even though the world they live in is fantastic (what with the dangerous Toothy Cows and the fearsome Fangs).  And Peterson’s ability to relate truth in his narrative is reminiscent of Lewis and Tolkien. I don’t want to spoil it for you, so I won’t say anything else!  Suffice it to say that Piper and I both thoroughly enjoyed this book (and are eager to read the next one which is on the way right now).  I will warn that some of the scenes were a little scary, so be aware if you are reading to younger or sensitive children.  But definitely read it! It is certainly, to paraphrase C.S. Lewis, a book that is as much worth reading at 37 as it is at 10!