This is an additional book of 7 short stories within the world of Aerwiar from the Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson. This was one of the fun books that I put on a list for secret santa (among others) and didn’t think about until I got the present and figured I might as well reading it since I was in between books.
And I’m so glad I did start reading it! Oh, what a joy to dive back into Aerwiar and read stories of characters we know and some we don’t.
The book starts out with “The Prince of Yorsha Doon” by Andrew Peterson. This story takes place in a city we don’t visit in the original series. It is the adventure story of reinstating the proper city leadership. Quick, fun, and moral. It personally reminded me of Curdie and the Princess.
Next, “The Wooing of Sophelia Stupe” by Jennifer Trafton is magical. Every part of this story is wonderful, from seeing the original habitants of Anklejelly Manor, to experiencing the numerous animals featured in Creaturepedia, to the pure irony Pembrick is left with at the end. All around delightful.
“Willow Worlds” by ND Wilson was not especially engaging. Fun little story. Nothing Special.
“Shadowblade and the Florid Sword” by Andrew Peterson is the first Wingfeather graphic novel depicting an evening with Maraly and Gammon following the original series.
“From the Deeps of the Dragon King” by AS Peterson is the much imagined story of Podo Helmer’s escapade earning him the name “Scale Raker” from the sea dragons. It is mighty and crazy. An epic adventure with a solemn conclusion.
“The Ballard of Lanric and Rube” by Jonathan Rogers is the well known (and sung) Annieran tale referenced in the original books. Very silly and enjoyable to see brought to life.
The last and longest story in the series, “The Places Beyond the Maps” by Douglas McKelvey, is a gut wrenching novella following Sara Cobbler’s father on his journey to meet the Maker after Sara is taken in the Black Carriage. It delivers. As this story coincides with the events of the original series it is amazing to see the moments connected and brought to life in the most fantastic way. I remember the 4th book being so phenomenal and emotional as the series concluded around the world, and this story provided me with the same depth of emotion and Christian themes depicted in the language.
Overall I loved this collection and would recommend it to anyone who is a fan of the Wingfeather Saga. And would recommend the original series to anyone interested in this book of extra stories. It was so enjoyable for me that I decided to switch my opening reading for 2024 from rereading the Chronicles of Narnia to rereading the Wingfeather Saga.
Sonya was here 