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The Edge Chronicles (chronological) #4
Twig im Dunkelwald
Twig wächst bei den Waldtrollen Selda und Tuntum auf, die ihn vor langer Zeit als hilfsloses Baby gefunden hatten. An seinem 13. Geburtstag muss er jedoch losziehen und herausfinden, wer er ist und woher er kommt. Deshalb schicken ihn seine Pflegeeltern zunächst zu seinem Cousin Schatterbank, der am anderen Ende des gefährlichen Dunkelwaldes lebt. Es ist strengstens verboten, den Pfad durch den Wald zu verlassen. Doch Twig kann der Versuchung nicht widerstehen ...
294 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1998
312 people are currently reading
11294 people want to read
About the author
Paul Stewart
216 books914 followersPaul Stewart is a highly regarded author of books for young readers – from picture books to football stories, fantasy and horror. Together with Chris Riddell he is co-creator of the bestselling Edge Chronicles, which has sold more than three million copies and is available in over twenty languages. They have also collaborated together on lots of other exciting books for children of all ages. The Far-Flung Adventure series includes the Gold Smarties Prize Winner Fergus Crane, and Corby Flood and Hugo Pepper, both Silver Nestle Prize Winners. Then there are the Barnaby Grimes books, two Muddle Earth adventures, and the sci-fi Scavenger and fantasy Wyrmeweald trilogies. For younger readers there is the Blobheads series, while for the very young, Paul has written several picture books, including the Rabbit and Hedgehog series, In the Dark of the Night and, his latest, Wings.
Other authors by this name disambiguation Note:
Paul Stewart - business and management books
Other authors by this name disambiguation Note:
Paul Stewart - business and management books
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,108 reviews
February 9, 2011
Oh my god, what an entertaining and enjoyable read about adventure, hope and never giving up even in the most dire circumstances.
I don't really know where to start with the story, there is so much going on and you as the reader really feel like you're right there in the adventure with Twig (who is a lovable little character), you follow him through impossible situations that he always manages to get out of because he's so filled with hope and spirit.
This is one of those wild imagination books, the kind of magical fantasy world that doesn't come along too often, but it is so beautifully crafted that you simply cannot wait to explore more of the Edgeworld. It becomes a very real and frightening place to the reader, told in such a vivid way that you can just imagine every piece of it. You can feel the centuries old suspicions about certain creatures and places on the map, and if you aren't afraid of the Gloamglozer then you aren't human.
The creatures are incredibly varied and often surprising... why isn't everyone reading this book?
I don't really know where to start with the story, there is so much going on and you as the reader really feel like you're right there in the adventure with Twig (who is a lovable little character), you follow him through impossible situations that he always manages to get out of because he's so filled with hope and spirit.
This is one of those wild imagination books, the kind of magical fantasy world that doesn't come along too often, but it is so beautifully crafted that you simply cannot wait to explore more of the Edgeworld. It becomes a very real and frightening place to the reader, told in such a vivid way that you can just imagine every piece of it. You can feel the centuries old suspicions about certain creatures and places on the map, and if you aren't afraid of the Gloamglozer then you aren't human.
The creatures are incredibly varied and often surprising... why isn't everyone reading this book?
November 16, 2017
One thing I will say for this author is that he is very good at making up magical creatures with amazing names and his illustrator is equally good at drawing them! The picture of Mag, the terrible termagant trog, straight after her change has to be seen to be believed:)
This is a great read for all ages but especially for those younger readers who like to read something with a bit of bite to it. Not enough to give you nightmares, but plenty to think about. The story is good and follows young Twig who does not really know who he is and sets out on a journey of discovery. There is a very neat ending which simultaneously ties up the loose ends of this book and sets the scene for the sequel.
Really intended as a book for young, young adults but equally readable for oldies with young hearts. Four stars for a fun read:)
This is a great read for all ages but especially for those younger readers who like to read something with a bit of bite to it. Not enough to give you nightmares, but plenty to think about. The story is good and follows young Twig who does not really know who he is and sets out on a journey of discovery. There is a very neat ending which simultaneously ties up the loose ends of this book and sets the scene for the sequel.
Really intended as a book for young, young adults but equally readable for oldies with young hearts. Four stars for a fun read:)
May 21, 2021
A childhood favourite of mine that I just re-read for the first time in twenty years and I adore it still! I am so relieved I didn't think it was not as good as when I was a child, as that has happened with re-reading some of my childhood favourites.
It's a brilliant adventure through a vast and dangerous wood, filled with terrifying creatures that are described so brilliantly well through Stewart's words, and brought to life through Riddell's illustrations. So much of the story came flooding back to me as I was reading which just transported me back to my 8-year-old self.
Saying that, there was a lot that I forgot about too, such as a certain mortifying death that is now haunting me since I finished this a few days ago. I won't spoil it here for anybody but I think everyone who has read this book will understand exactly what I mean. This book (and series in general) is extremely dark and, at times, very violent. Perhaps a tad too violent for the younger kids in middle grade, but a definite must-read for the older kids. Sometimes I wonder if maybe it goes a little too far haha.
Twig is a good protagonist to follow, though he goes from terrible situation to terrible situation and sometimes has a bit of a convenient way of escaping those dangerous situations. This is just filled with incredible world-building and attention to detail and a solid 5-star for me still after all these years.
It's a brilliant adventure through a vast and dangerous wood, filled with terrifying creatures that are described so brilliantly well through Stewart's words, and brought to life through Riddell's illustrations. So much of the story came flooding back to me as I was reading which just transported me back to my 8-year-old self.
Saying that, there was a lot that I forgot about too, such as a certain mortifying death that is now haunting me since I finished this a few days ago. I won't spoil it here for anybody but I think everyone who has read this book will understand exactly what I mean. This book (and series in general) is extremely dark and, at times, very violent. Perhaps a tad too violent for the younger kids in middle grade, but a definite must-read for the older kids. Sometimes I wonder if maybe it goes a little too far haha.
Twig is a good protagonist to follow, though he goes from terrible situation to terrible situation and sometimes has a bit of a convenient way of escaping those dangerous situations. This is just filled with incredible world-building and attention to detail and a solid 5-star for me still after all these years.
July 25, 2015
I was really surprised about this book. Not because of the fact that it was bad. It was actually better then I thought it would be. The thing that surprised me is that this is considered a children's series and the rather disturbing stuff that goes on in here. I did love the fact that there was so many different creatures and adventures going on. Not one problem lasted so long.
I do agree with the person that said they were surprised that the story got wrapped up so neatly with so much random stuff going on.
This is definately not a book for those that want cutesy creatures. But if your looking for something that is a little odd, and a little different this is the book.
The personal journey in this book at first started off like everyone else, the boy who doesn't belong is looking to belong. But so much more happened in this. Definately a good read.
I do agree with the person that said they were surprised that the story got wrapped up so neatly with so much random stuff going on.
This is definately not a book for those that want cutesy creatures. But if your looking for something that is a little odd, and a little different this is the book.
The personal journey in this book at first started off like everyone else, the boy who doesn't belong is looking to belong. But so much more happened in this. Definately a good read.
November 5, 2022
What a blast of nostalgic fun! Now I remember why I used to love these books so much when I was a kid.
Twig grew up as a human by woodtrolls in a massive forest. When he’s spotted by a sky pirate, his adoptive woodtroll mother tells him to travel to her cousin's house to hide. Because she’s afraid the sky pirates might kidnap him. The only thing Twig has to look out for on his journey, is to not stray from the path. It’s pretty much like: don’t feed the gremlins after midnight. It’s so easy, you’d have to be a real idiot to mess this up. Naturally, he strays from the path faster than his own shadow. And this is the story of all the little adventures he has and the creatures he meets in this rich, illustrious and dangerous forest.
Plot-wise, it’s a bit episodic. Every chapter is a new encounter with one of the many fascinating creatures in the woods. The creativity in the world building is simply phenomenal, elevating every plot with ridiculously well crafted parts of the woods, fantasy creatures, … And the drawings help a lot too. They are of very high quality. They always manage to elevate each and every individual story, bringing the book as a whole to new heights.
The character of Twig is basically an enigma, both to us readers and to himself. He’s an outcast, a human amongst the woodtrolls. He wants to find out where he came from, so he can finally feel at home somewhere. The question he asks himself constantly is: “who am I?” This is the foundation of his character arc and also fuels the plot.
It’s a book for children that’s so gripping and fascinatingly creative, it’s hard not to get sucked into this rich fantasy world. This is simply escapism done right.
Twig grew up as a human by woodtrolls in a massive forest. When he’s spotted by a sky pirate, his adoptive woodtroll mother tells him to travel to her cousin's house to hide. Because she’s afraid the sky pirates might kidnap him. The only thing Twig has to look out for on his journey, is to not stray from the path. It’s pretty much like: don’t feed the gremlins after midnight. It’s so easy, you’d have to be a real idiot to mess this up. Naturally, he strays from the path faster than his own shadow. And this is the story of all the little adventures he has and the creatures he meets in this rich, illustrious and dangerous forest.
Plot-wise, it’s a bit episodic. Every chapter is a new encounter with one of the many fascinating creatures in the woods. The creativity in the world building is simply phenomenal, elevating every plot with ridiculously well crafted parts of the woods, fantasy creatures, … And the drawings help a lot too. They are of very high quality. They always manage to elevate each and every individual story, bringing the book as a whole to new heights.
The character of Twig is basically an enigma, both to us readers and to himself. He’s an outcast, a human amongst the woodtrolls. He wants to find out where he came from, so he can finally feel at home somewhere. The question he asks himself constantly is: “who am I?” This is the foundation of his character arc and also fuels the plot.
It’s a book for children that’s so gripping and fascinatingly creative, it’s hard not to get sucked into this rich fantasy world. This is simply escapism done right.
April 15, 2017
3 stars
Book #1 of the series The Edge Chronicles
I fell in love with Twig. Forever thinking he was a Wood Troll, when he finds out he is not, he starts a journey to find out who he is. Always in fear of the Gloamglozer, Twig navigates the woods full of nasty beasts and man eating trees. He encounters Hover Worms, Slaughterers, the Blood Oak, the Gyle Goblins, Rotsuckers, and Termagant Trogs, among others. Along the way he buddies up with the Banderbear and the Caterbird, who help him when most needed. Finally he encounters the Sky Pirates and finds his home.
The book graphics are outstanding. Worth the read for that alone.
This is a YA series. Good for cleaning your palette and tickling your funny bone.
Book #1 of the series The Edge Chronicles
I fell in love with Twig. Forever thinking he was a Wood Troll, when he finds out he is not, he starts a journey to find out who he is. Always in fear of the Gloamglozer, Twig navigates the woods full of nasty beasts and man eating trees. He encounters Hover Worms, Slaughterers, the Blood Oak, the Gyle Goblins, Rotsuckers, and Termagant Trogs, among others. Along the way he buddies up with the Banderbear and the Caterbird, who help him when most needed. Finally he encounters the Sky Pirates and finds his home.
The book graphics are outstanding. Worth the read for that alone.
This is a YA series. Good for cleaning your palette and tickling your funny bone.
February 16, 2018
The Good:
Very imaginative and moody. The setting is dark and colourful and a little bit twisted, with frequent gross-out moments to appeal to the target audience. There is an extremely diverse cast of characters.
The Bad:
Many of the scenes appeared to randomly follow the last one, a theme repeated in the setting – a lot of bizarre stuff occurs for no given reason. The chief antagonist doesn’t play a significant role .
'Friends' character the protagonist is most like:
Twig is a young boy who is looking for somewhere to fit in. So, Ross or Phoebe.
Very imaginative and moody. The setting is dark and colourful and a little bit twisted, with frequent gross-out moments to appeal to the target audience. There is an extremely diverse cast of characters.
The Bad:
Many of the scenes appeared to randomly follow the last one, a theme repeated in the setting – a lot of bizarre stuff occurs for no given reason. The chief antagonist doesn’t play a significant role .
'Friends' character the protagonist is most like:
Twig is a young boy who is looking for somewhere to fit in. So, Ross or Phoebe.
June 25, 2015
3 stars for the story and so many characters that beautifully described in so much details, wonderful graphics in the book and 1 star for the ending. It was a good end to the story, finishing first book with an appropriate plot for the main character to be introduced and leaving the reader in a position that they know it's the beginning of a great journey for him . Definitely going to read the next book in this trilogy.
The best thing I enjoyed in this book was the vast numbers of metaphors that fit everyday life of ours.
Saeed.
The best thing I enjoyed in this book was the vast numbers of metaphors that fit everyday life of ours.
Saeed.
February 1, 2017
This book was thoroughly unexpected! I was thinking I'd picked up a light-hearted children's fantasy that I'd whiz through without too much emotional attachment.
So imagine my surprise when the characters and creatures were so gruesome, inventive and frankly sometimes scary! I had a lot of love for Twig - he was a lovable character, a relatable little guy who doesn't fit in with his Woodtroll family and so sets off to find himself and his destiny in the Deepwoods. What he finds is a magical array of fantastical and imaginative animals and beings, the majority of which want to eat or kill him!
I loved this book, really enjoyed the fast paced story, it completely transported me to the world of the Deepwoods and I am excited to see what the other books have in store!
So imagine my surprise when the characters and creatures were so gruesome, inventive and frankly sometimes scary! I had a lot of love for Twig - he was a lovable character, a relatable little guy who doesn't fit in with his Woodtroll family and so sets off to find himself and his destiny in the Deepwoods. What he finds is a magical array of fantastical and imaginative animals and beings, the majority of which want to eat or kill him!
I loved this book, really enjoyed the fast paced story, it completely transported me to the world of the Deepwoods and I am excited to see what the other books have in store!
December 1, 2015
Every time I read this book I remember again how much I absolutely adore everything about it. The Edgeworld, the Deepwoods, the creatures and characters, the gorgeous sketches, the plot - EVERYTHING. I will, at some point, write an actual review but for now I'll just say (like a little kid) IloveitIloveitIloveit IwantitIwantitIwantit!
August 7, 2017
I remember when I first found this book, nestled away in my local library. I was around 10-11, and my dad pulled it out and said, "Ethan, this one sounds a lot like Harry Potter, why don't you give it a try? You love your fantasy and magical creatures".
Almost reluctantly, I got it out because, really, I didn't want to be reading young adult books when the crime and gore section was right there, but I decided to settle down and give my dad's pick a chance.
Oh. My. Gosh.
I was taken on a whole new fantasy journey. I thought HP took me to a whole new world, when Paul Stewart and Chris Riddle had this beautiful book and series just sitting in my library, waiting to be discovered. I don't remember that last time I actively sat and read a book as quickly as this.
We follow Twig, a young humanoid character on his journey across The Edge, a fantasy world full to the brim with creatures and animals that both terrify and amaze us.
And amaze me this book did. I still remember my heart thinking at certain scenes, how I would sit and stare at the illustrations for hours, how I just could not get enough of it. I read it within two hours and was already back at the library, getting every other book in the series out.
If you're looking for a young adult fantasy series, I highly recommend this one. It's absolutely brilliant. Stewart and Riddle can do no wrong whatsoever.
Almost reluctantly, I got it out because, really, I didn't want to be reading young adult books when the crime and gore section was right there, but I decided to settle down and give my dad's pick a chance.
Oh. My. Gosh.
I was taken on a whole new fantasy journey. I thought HP took me to a whole new world, when Paul Stewart and Chris Riddle had this beautiful book and series just sitting in my library, waiting to be discovered. I don't remember that last time I actively sat and read a book as quickly as this.
We follow Twig, a young humanoid character on his journey across The Edge, a fantasy world full to the brim with creatures and animals that both terrify and amaze us.
And amaze me this book did. I still remember my heart thinking at certain scenes, how I would sit and stare at the illustrations for hours, how I just could not get enough of it. I read it within two hours and was already back at the library, getting every other book in the series out.
If you're looking for a young adult fantasy series, I highly recommend this one. It's absolutely brilliant. Stewart and Riddle can do no wrong whatsoever.
October 27, 2017
Mythical critters info dumping things about their world that they already know.
April 11, 2016
Beyond the Deepwoods (Edge Chronicles, Book 1)
After beginning this book, I figured out that it is actually written for children. At the time, I had no book to read. This book has been on my shelf for a few years. It was given to my partner as a gift and he was never interested in it. So, out of necessity to have something to read, I grabbed it.
I was shocked at how much I liked it. It wasn't incredible, but it was very well written and the story was well thought out. It had a few twists and turns that I did not expect...actually, the entire book was a twist and a turn. There is constant action and the lead character goes from one problem to the next. A few of the main points of the story did surprise me and a few shocked me deeply.
Even though this is written for children, it is a bit dark and some overbearing parents might not like their kids being exposed to situations like death even if they are artfully presented. I don't see the point in pretending children aren't humans like the rest of us, but I digress. There are many scenes that remind me of some of the movies from the 1980s with dark, odd puppetry characters. The book even has a few illustrations that put you in that frame of mind. However, I wouldn't call anything in this book scary. However, anticipation is constant.
The main character is the usual weak male that finds his strength along the way, but the story is generally unique and pleasing. He always manages to find a way out of his situation. The main moral that this story centers around is the acceptance and promotion of individuality. The main character strays from the path and chooses adventure over assimilation. I can respect that.
After beginning this book, I figured out that it is actually written for children. At the time, I had no book to read. This book has been on my shelf for a few years. It was given to my partner as a gift and he was never interested in it. So, out of necessity to have something to read, I grabbed it.
I was shocked at how much I liked it. It wasn't incredible, but it was very well written and the story was well thought out. It had a few twists and turns that I did not expect...actually, the entire book was a twist and a turn. There is constant action and the lead character goes from one problem to the next. A few of the main points of the story did surprise me and a few shocked me deeply.
Even though this is written for children, it is a bit dark and some overbearing parents might not like their kids being exposed to situations like death even if they are artfully presented. I don't see the point in pretending children aren't humans like the rest of us, but I digress. There are many scenes that remind me of some of the movies from the 1980s with dark, odd puppetry characters. The book even has a few illustrations that put you in that frame of mind. However, I wouldn't call anything in this book scary. However, anticipation is constant.
The main character is the usual weak male that finds his strength along the way, but the story is generally unique and pleasing. He always manages to find a way out of his situation. The main moral that this story centers around is the acceptance and promotion of individuality. The main character strays from the path and chooses adventure over assimilation. I can respect that.
January 7, 2015
I loved every aspect of this book, it was just as enchanting as the first time I read it, and can at least say that it's as good as all the previous books I've read.
December 26, 2021
Twig steht kurz vor seinem 13. Geburtstag und das bedeutet, dass er erwachsen ist. Er ist aufgewachsen bei den Waldtrollen, doch was ihm seine gute Mutter Spelda erzählt, verwirrt Twig. Sie erklärt ihm, dass er nicht ihr Sohn ist und folglich auch kein Waldtroll. Er muss die Ansiedlung verlassen, um herauszufinden, wer er wirklich ist. So muss er Abschied nehmen und sich auf den Weg durch den Dunkelwald begeben, in dem Gefahren und Abenteuer auf ihn lauern
Twig ist ein abenteuerliches Buch für Leser ab 12 Jahren. In dieser Geschichte trifft man wundersame Geschöpfe und Pflanzen, wie Honigkobolden, Banderbären, Höhlenfurien, Wiegenliedbäumen, Himmelspiraten und Bluteichen. So trifft er auf hilfreiche und mörderische Wesen.
Twig stolpert von einem Abenteuer immer direkt in das nächste und die Spannung lässt eigentlich nie nach. Das Buch ist nicht immer appetitlich und es gibt eine Situation, in der ein Tier zu Tode kommt, in der ich versucht war Twig im Dunkelwald allein zu lassen.
Warum ich trotzdem weitergelesen habe, liegt an der großen Kreativität, die dem Dunkelwald Leben eingehaucht hat und den fantastischen Illustrationen von Chris Riddell. Jede der Illustrationen ist ein kleines Meisterwerk.
Ich bin gespannt, wie es mit Twig weitergehen wird und wann mir die Himmelspiraten einen Platz in ihrem Luftschiff anbieten werden.
Twig ist ein abenteuerliches Buch für Leser ab 12 Jahren. In dieser Geschichte trifft man wundersame Geschöpfe und Pflanzen, wie Honigkobolden, Banderbären, Höhlenfurien, Wiegenliedbäumen, Himmelspiraten und Bluteichen. So trifft er auf hilfreiche und mörderische Wesen.
Twig stolpert von einem Abenteuer immer direkt in das nächste und die Spannung lässt eigentlich nie nach. Das Buch ist nicht immer appetitlich und es gibt eine Situation, in der ein Tier zu Tode kommt, in der ich versucht war Twig im Dunkelwald allein zu lassen.
Warum ich trotzdem weitergelesen habe, liegt an der großen Kreativität, die dem Dunkelwald Leben eingehaucht hat und den fantastischen Illustrationen von Chris Riddell. Jede der Illustrationen ist ein kleines Meisterwerk.
Ich bin gespannt, wie es mit Twig weitergehen wird und wann mir die Himmelspiraten einen Platz in ihrem Luftschiff anbieten werden.
March 29, 2024
Beste Jugendfantasy, die ich je las.
June 3, 2022
Read it once as a kid and it became an instant fave, read it now as an adult and still an instant fave. Never wanted to live in a fantasy world more, despite knowing I’d die within the first hour.
June 25, 2023
Read for Groninger Book Worms, Comfort Theme
I feel like it was trying to do a whole lot of stuff in one book. But in the process, it felt like playing some weird session of D&D.
I feel like it was trying to do a whole lot of stuff in one book. But in the process, it felt like playing some weird session of D&D.
June 26, 2023
First off, let me be clear about one thing: the fact that this is Tanja's comfort read only makes me like her more as a person. And maybe, if I'd read this story as a child, I'd find it nostalgically comforting as well.
But since I'm now a fussy adult with a preference for grounded fantasy, witty dialogue, and three-dimensional (female) characters, this book failed to comfort me. Though I did enjoy the illustrations, silly words, and overall absurdity of the story , I still struggled with the novel because of how predictable the plot was. Most chapters follow the same formula: Twig gets into a strange, life-threatening situation, which he survives in the nick of time with last-minute help from a random character. Rinse, repeat.
Generous amounts of text are dedicated to Twig bravely running away from predatory creatures and suchlike, all incredibly imaginative but also somewhat disposable, since most could easily be replaced by some other dangerous creature/situation or even removed from the story altogether. Since I love character building and continuity, I grew tired of this conflict-escape cycle and craved more complex characters and dialogue. Even a personified object that accompanied Twig, like Wilson from Cast Away, would have added a lot to the story and his character development.
Also, I wasn't a fan of the mommy issues that Stewart & Riddell were evidently trying to work out while writing this novel. How they depicted the various mothers made me think of this quote from Of Woman Born: Motherhood as Experience and Institution:
That quote seemed a bit dramatic the first time I read it, but upon finishing this book, I thought, Okay maybe Adrienne Rich had a point there.
I did like the apothecaress, Gabmora Gabtroll, who deserved way more page time than she got. Case in point: she's not even in the Wikipedia summary of the novel's plot.
(╯°□°）╯︵ ┻━┻
ARGH the injustice of it all.
I mean, if she and her beast Karg had joined Twig and the banderbear earlier in the story, the four of them would've made an epic DnD group with five-star potential.
Alas, it was not so. And thus: three stars.
But since I'm now a fussy adult with a preference for grounded fantasy, witty dialogue, and three-dimensional (female) characters, this book failed to comfort me. Though I did enjoy the illustrations, silly words, and overall absurdity of the story , I still struggled with the novel because of how predictable the plot was. Most chapters follow the same formula: Twig gets into a strange, life-threatening situation, which he survives in the nick of time with last-minute help from a random character. Rinse, repeat.
Generous amounts of text are dedicated to Twig bravely running away from predatory creatures and suchlike, all incredibly imaginative but also somewhat disposable, since most could easily be replaced by some other dangerous creature/situation or even removed from the story altogether. Since I love character building and continuity, I grew tired of this conflict-escape cycle and craved more complex characters and dialogue. Even a personified object that accompanied Twig, like Wilson from Cast Away, would have added a lot to the story and his character development.
Also, I wasn't a fan of the mommy issues that Stewart & Riddell were evidently trying to work out while writing this novel. How they depicted the various mothers made me think of this quote from Of Woman Born: Motherhood as Experience and Institution:
As her sons have seen her: the Mother in patriarchy: controlling, erotic, castrating, heart-suffering, guilt-ridden and guilt-provoking; a marble brow, a huge breast, an avid cave; between her legs snakes, swamp-grass, or teeth; on her lap a helpless infant or a martyred son. She exists for one purpose: to bear and nourish the son.
That quote seemed a bit dramatic the first time I read it, but upon finishing this book, I thought, Okay maybe Adrienne Rich had a point there.
I did like the apothecaress, Gabmora Gabtroll, who deserved way more page time than she got. Case in point: she's not even in the Wikipedia summary of the novel's plot.
(╯°□°）╯︵ ┻━┻
ARGH the injustice of it all.
I mean, if she and her beast Karg had joined Twig and the banderbear earlier in the story, the four of them would've made an epic DnD group with five-star potential.
Alas, it was not so. And thus: three stars.
July 6, 2020
Middle-grade fantasy books are probably the best way to get out of a reading slump, especially when they are as magical, whimsical and creative like this one. First of all I absolutely loved Chris Riddle´s illustrations through the whole novel, they were a great way to bring Paul Stewart good description of the creatures to life. I also think that the world-building is great and very detailed, especially for a children´s book. All the different places on the Edge which were described in the beginning seem to be very interesting, even though we only saw the Deepwoods in this first book. Twig´s adventure was very captivating from start to finish. I really liked him as character, especially his self-doubt and the uncertainty of him to which place he belong made him a very likable and realistic character. Some parts within his journey through the Deepwoods were very thrilling, some even a bit dark and mysterious and others were absolutely emotional and heart-warming. All the different races and creatures were probably my favorite thing in the book and I am very excited what species we will see in the other novels because until now we only saw a very small part of this world. The only reason why I did not give this book 5 stars is because there is still a bit room for both plot and character development in my opinion, so it gets a very good 4.5 out of 5. I will definitely continue!
June 22, 2020
From Banderbears to trees that eat you this one was a blast for me and the kids. This book follows a young one by the name of Twig, who has been raised by woodtrools since he was a babe. When he's old enough it is determined that he needs to go make his own way somewhere else. So he hops on the path in the deep woods and then loses it. Upon losing it he is set upon by a vast array of different creatures that to even mention them would be spoilers heavy. This is a book to be experienced and I recommend it to all with young ones at home. It is an easy read but it doesn't treat children like they're ignorant, it uses "big" words that I had the joy of telling my daughter to go get her dictionary in order to figure out what the word meant. Great joy. I think I'm slowly turning into my parents. This one was so good that my children were ready to start the next book that very instant. It exposes children to things that are important to life like loss, the value of friendship, family, and finding your own way. The Banderbear is my favorite and the kid favorite as well (although for my little horror loving son the Gloamglozer was a close second). There's a lot of emotion in this one and I didn't expect to cry that much for a children's book but they got me. Highly recommended, I think it's better than Harry Potter but that's just me.
There it is and there you have it.
There it is and there you have it.
June 28, 2023
Wu-wu! Who.
😅 The booklcub will know.
😅 The booklcub will know.
January 16, 2023
This was a pretty good book, but there were some prats that I would have cut out of the story.
Pros:
1. Good story line the author has the main character goes through a bunch of different cultures of people, and you get to learn about the world the author is making.
2. Some might think there is magic because there are floating rocks and floating wood, but no. in this book some wood is buoyant but not that it floats in the water but buoyant as in it floats in the air, and it is just a fact that it floats just as we might think it is a fact that birds fly. it is the same thing with the rocks and that they fly.
3. I like that there are sky ships and how the author explains how they fly even if you don't understand a Single thing he is saying.
Cons:
1. As I said, the main Character goes Through a Bunch of different cultures and in one of the cultures it leans toward Feminism but from the main Character point of view, he thinks it wrong that the women are being the boss just because they are bigger.
2. In one of the chapters you meet a big Beast (the one on the Front of the book) that becomes a main Character and you start to love him and then love him more and he is only in there for one chapter so sad.
3. They live on this big Ledge, and he does not explain if they are floating or if They are attached to a mountain.
4. As I said before, they live on a Ledge and everybody is so scared of falling off the edge, but you never get told what is down there and nobody ever thinks to take a sky ship and Sail down into the mist over the edge.
Pros:
1. Good story line the author has the main character goes through a bunch of different cultures of people, and you get to learn about the world the author is making.
2. Some might think there is magic because there are floating rocks and floating wood, but no. in this book some wood is buoyant but not that it floats in the water but buoyant as in it floats in the air, and it is just a fact that it floats just as we might think it is a fact that birds fly. it is the same thing with the rocks and that they fly.
3. I like that there are sky ships and how the author explains how they fly even if you don't understand a Single thing he is saying.
Cons:
1. As I said, the main Character goes Through a Bunch of different cultures and in one of the cultures it leans toward Feminism but from the main Character point of view, he thinks it wrong that the women are being the boss just because they are bigger.
2. In one of the chapters you meet a big Beast (the one on the Front of the book) that becomes a main Character and you start to love him and then love him more and he is only in there for one chapter so sad.
3. They live on this big Ledge, and he does not explain if they are floating or if They are attached to a mountain.
4. As I said before, they live on a Ledge and everybody is so scared of falling off the edge, but you never get told what is down there and nobody ever thinks to take a sky ship and Sail down into the mist over the edge.
August 27, 2023
my nostalgia tour of childhood books continues! shoutout to Noah for reminding me that this series existed.
this way WAY more hectic than I remember it being - to be fair it is a children's book, but SO many things happen to twig while he's going through the deepwoods. story got much more compelling with the entrance of the sky pirates (whimsy alert!)
interesting to listen on audiobook because of the high volume of yelling and weird creature voices
this way WAY more hectic than I remember it being - to be fair it is a children's book, but SO many things happen to twig while he's going through the deepwoods. story got much more compelling with the entrance of the sky pirates (whimsy alert!)
interesting to listen on audiobook because of the high volume of yelling and weird creature voices
July 28, 2023
The story as a whole wasn’t for me but the illustrations has won it a definitive spot at my bookshelf.
June 21, 2015
Für Kinder: 4 Sterne
Meine Meinung
Ich bin von dem Buch ein bisschen enttäuscht, weil ich eine völlig andere Erwartung hatte. Das Cover hat mich an die Scheibenweltromane erinnert, dabei hat man es hier mit einem reinen Kinderbuch zu tun. Was jetzt an sich nicht schlimm wäre, aber ich bin mit dem Handlungsablauf nicht so wirklich klargekommen.
Wenn ich das Buch jetzt rein für Kinder bewerten würde, könnte ich 4 Sterne vergeben, aber mir persönlich hat es leider nicht so gefallen.
Im ersten Kapitel hat einen guten Überblick über das Klippenland bekommen, in dem die Geografie sehr schön beschrieben wurde. Vorne gibts es auch eine gezeichnete Karte, die richtig toll aussieht und überhaupt sind die Zeichnungen von Chris Riddell rundum gelungen. Fast auf jeder Seite findet man ein Bild von Twig oder den Geschöpfen, denen er auf seiner Reise begegnet. Sehr gut getroffen machen sie die Geschichte nochmal einen Tick anschaulicher.
Twig wächst im Dunkelwald bei den Waldtrollen auf. Als er 13 und damit erwachsen wird erfährt er, dass er ein Findelkind ist. Seine bisherige "Mutter" schickt ihn fort, damit ihn die bösen Luftpiraten nicht fangen und für Twig beginnt damit eine lange Reise voller Abenteuer.
Ich konnte mit der Figur von Twig nicht wirklich viel anfangen - er wirkte etwas unschlüssig in allem, was er tat und oft auch unbeteiligt, als wäre ihm alles egal, was passiert, oder würde ihn nicht wirklich berühren.
Mir kam es so vor, als träfe er in jedem Kapitel auf ein anderes seltsames Geschöpf, hat damit eine Auseinandersetzung - und weiter gehts mit dem nächsten. Das war am Anfang erfrischend, im Laufe der Seiten aber eher langweilig. Es hatte keinen roten Faden bzw. keinen Sinn dahinter, einfach wie eine Abfolge von Stationen, die "abgearbeitet" werden müssen, um ans Ende zu kommen.
Dabei hat der Autor wirklich viele tolle Ideen, ein wahres Sammelsurium an sagenhaften Kreaturen, ungewöhnlichen Szenen und kleinen Überraschungen.
Fazit
Originelle und witzige Ideen, die für ein Kinderbuch auf jeden Fall Spannung und Abwechslung versprechen, für mich wurde der Handlungsablauf leider zu eintönig. Für Kinder, die Fantasygeschichten mögen, ist es aber sicher lesenswert! Vor allem die Zeichnungen sind ein Hingucker!
© Aleshanee
Weltenwanderer
Die Klippenland-Chroniken
(im Sauerländer Verlag)
1 - Twig im Dunkelwald
2 - Twig bei den Himmelspiraten
3 - Twig im Auge des Sturms
4 - Twig - Fluch über Sanktaphrax
5 - Rook und Twig, der letzte Himmelspirat
6 - Rook und der schwarze Mahlstrom
7 - Rook in den freien Tälern
8 - Quint und die Eisritter
9 - Quint und der Kampf der Himmelsgaleonen
10 - Das Buch der unsterblichen Helden
Meine Meinung
Ich bin von dem Buch ein bisschen enttäuscht, weil ich eine völlig andere Erwartung hatte. Das Cover hat mich an die Scheibenweltromane erinnert, dabei hat man es hier mit einem reinen Kinderbuch zu tun. Was jetzt an sich nicht schlimm wäre, aber ich bin mit dem Handlungsablauf nicht so wirklich klargekommen.
Wenn ich das Buch jetzt rein für Kinder bewerten würde, könnte ich 4 Sterne vergeben, aber mir persönlich hat es leider nicht so gefallen.
Im ersten Kapitel hat einen guten Überblick über das Klippenland bekommen, in dem die Geografie sehr schön beschrieben wurde. Vorne gibts es auch eine gezeichnete Karte, die richtig toll aussieht und überhaupt sind die Zeichnungen von Chris Riddell rundum gelungen. Fast auf jeder Seite findet man ein Bild von Twig oder den Geschöpfen, denen er auf seiner Reise begegnet. Sehr gut getroffen machen sie die Geschichte nochmal einen Tick anschaulicher.
Twig wächst im Dunkelwald bei den Waldtrollen auf. Als er 13 und damit erwachsen wird erfährt er, dass er ein Findelkind ist. Seine bisherige "Mutter" schickt ihn fort, damit ihn die bösen Luftpiraten nicht fangen und für Twig beginnt damit eine lange Reise voller Abenteuer.
Ich konnte mit der Figur von Twig nicht wirklich viel anfangen - er wirkte etwas unschlüssig in allem, was er tat und oft auch unbeteiligt, als wäre ihm alles egal, was passiert, oder würde ihn nicht wirklich berühren.
Mir kam es so vor, als träfe er in jedem Kapitel auf ein anderes seltsames Geschöpf, hat damit eine Auseinandersetzung - und weiter gehts mit dem nächsten. Das war am Anfang erfrischend, im Laufe der Seiten aber eher langweilig. Es hatte keinen roten Faden bzw. keinen Sinn dahinter, einfach wie eine Abfolge von Stationen, die "abgearbeitet" werden müssen, um ans Ende zu kommen.
Dabei hat der Autor wirklich viele tolle Ideen, ein wahres Sammelsurium an sagenhaften Kreaturen, ungewöhnlichen Szenen und kleinen Überraschungen.
Fazit
Originelle und witzige Ideen, die für ein Kinderbuch auf jeden Fall Spannung und Abwechslung versprechen, für mich wurde der Handlungsablauf leider zu eintönig. Für Kinder, die Fantasygeschichten mögen, ist es aber sicher lesenswert! Vor allem die Zeichnungen sind ein Hingucker!
© Aleshanee
Weltenwanderer
Die Klippenland-Chroniken
(im Sauerländer Verlag)
1 - Twig im Dunkelwald
2 - Twig bei den Himmelspiraten
3 - Twig im Auge des Sturms
4 - Twig - Fluch über Sanktaphrax
5 - Rook und Twig, der letzte Himmelspirat
6 - Rook und der schwarze Mahlstrom
7 - Rook in den freien Tälern
8 - Quint und die Eisritter
9 - Quint und der Kampf der Himmelsgaleonen
10 - Das Buch der unsterblichen Helden
July 4, 2020
(Mindre spoilers til slut)
En skøn start på en forhåbentlig fantastisk serie. Det er lidt en opstartsbog eller føles lidt som en opvarmning på at eventyret kan begynde. Hvordan helten bliver forberedt på det helt store eventyr og får sine færdigheder så han kan overleve ude i den farlige verden. Det er sådan en børn vil elske, så ville ønske jeg havde læst den dengang, for så ville jeg helt sikkert have sat mere pris på den, men jeg påskønner den stadig og vil varmt anbefale, fejl befale man læser den fysiske bog eller har bogen i hænderne imens man høre lydbogen så man ikke går glip af de fantastiske illustrationer, de giver historien en ekstra dimension og gøre det hele bare bedre. Jeg kan mærke det er en ældre historie på den måde at den er simpelthen skrevet på en anden måde og opbygget anderledes end nutiden fantasy for børn, men det var forfriskende og ikke så forudsigeligt, at den er skrevet på en anden måde og det skal man lige lægge mærke til, for at man kan sætte pris på det. Man kan nemlig godt være lidt forvent med at historier er bygget på samme opskrift. Den eneste grund til den ikke får højere rating er pga. Ovenstående og fordi historien aldrig fik min pulsen til at stige højt af spænding eller frygt for hvad der nu skete for karakteren også plottet eller bevæggrunden for hele rejsen pga skurken er lidt tynd, men ikke alle historier har de dybe motiver. Den var virkelig underholdende, men ingen frygt. Der var spænding, men ikke nok. Det er en skøn finurlig fortælling, fuld skøre fortællinger og en blanding af en masse vidunderlig væsner og karaktere som føltes unikke på hver deres måde.
Jeg er vild med forfatterens kreativitet og hans opfindelser både ift til flora og fauna, men også de ting og midler der bliver benyttet i denne verden og kan slet ikke vente med, at læse videre. Forfatteren og illustratoren har skabt en fantastisk univers som ikke kan andet end at sætte pris på, men skal bare kigge dybt nok.
Jeg var især glad for Banderbjørnen og Skaffefuglen og Kvist's oplevelser med piraterne. En anden ting er bogen detaljerighed, så selv små ting er vigtige og at tingene som regel hænger sammen på den ene eller anden måde som bliver afsløret historien igennem. En anden ting som virkelig fangede min interesse var at alle træerne var ikke bare træer, men havde forskellige egenskaber, navne og funktioner, selv som brænde skal de bruges forskelligt.
En skøn start på en forhåbentlig fantastisk serie. Det er lidt en opstartsbog eller føles lidt som en opvarmning på at eventyret kan begynde. Hvordan helten bliver forberedt på det helt store eventyr og får sine færdigheder så han kan overleve ude i den farlige verden. Det er sådan en børn vil elske, så ville ønske jeg havde læst den dengang, for så ville jeg helt sikkert have sat mere pris på den, men jeg påskønner den stadig og vil varmt anbefale, fejl befale man læser den fysiske bog eller har bogen i hænderne imens man høre lydbogen så man ikke går glip af de fantastiske illustrationer, de giver historien en ekstra dimension og gøre det hele bare bedre. Jeg kan mærke det er en ældre historie på den måde at den er simpelthen skrevet på en anden måde og opbygget anderledes end nutiden fantasy for børn, men det var forfriskende og ikke så forudsigeligt, at den er skrevet på en anden måde og det skal man lige lægge mærke til, for at man kan sætte pris på det. Man kan nemlig godt være lidt forvent med at historier er bygget på samme opskrift. Den eneste grund til den ikke får højere rating er pga. Ovenstående og fordi historien aldrig fik min pulsen til at stige højt af spænding eller frygt for hvad der nu skete for karakteren også plottet eller bevæggrunden for hele rejsen pga skurken er lidt tynd, men ikke alle historier har de dybe motiver. Den var virkelig underholdende, men ingen frygt. Der var spænding, men ikke nok. Det er en skøn finurlig fortælling, fuld skøre fortællinger og en blanding af en masse vidunderlig væsner og karaktere som føltes unikke på hver deres måde.
Jeg er vild med forfatterens kreativitet og hans opfindelser både ift til flora og fauna, men også de ting og midler der bliver benyttet i denne verden og kan slet ikke vente med, at læse videre. Forfatteren og illustratoren har skabt en fantastisk univers som ikke kan andet end at sætte pris på, men skal bare kigge dybt nok.
Jeg var især glad for Banderbjørnen og Skaffefuglen og Kvist's oplevelser med piraterne. En anden ting er bogen detaljerighed, så selv små ting er vigtige og at tingene som regel hænger sammen på den ene eller anden måde som bliver afsløret historien igennem. En anden ting som virkelig fangede min interesse var at alle træerne var ikke bare træer, men havde forskellige egenskaber, navne og funktioner, selv som brænde skal de bruges forskelligt.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2012
Autori - Kriss Ridels un Pols Stjuarts - grāmatā ir centušies parādīt, ka brīžiem var atkāpties no ikdienišķās un garlaicīgās grāmatu rakstīšanas, veidojot kādu radošu savu fantāziju un izdomu augli. Grāmata jau kādu laiku bija stāvējusi manas istbas plauktā, līdz beidzot nolēmu to izlasīt. To es nenožēloju nevienu brīdi, jo bija interesanti attālināties no realitātes un pabūt kādā interesantā vietā devētā par Malaszemi.
Piedzīvojums sākas Malazsemē galvenā varoņa - Zarēna audžuvecāku mājā. Malaszeme ir vieta, kas atrodas starp debesīm un zemi, tā, gluži vienkārši, peld pa mākoņiem. Zarēns ir 13 gadīgs zēns, vinš ir unikāls un nepieder nevienai citai sugai, kas atrodama Malaszemē, tāpēc viņš netiek ieredzēts savu vienaudžu starpā. Audžuvecāki, kas pēc izcelsmes ir troļļi, viņu atrada mežā, kad viņš vēl bija ļoti mazs zēns. Zarēnam, augot lielam, tika mācīts nekad nenogriezties no takas. Kādu dienu vecāki nolēma sūtīt Zarēnu pie viņa brālēna, kurš atradās otrpus mežam, piekodinot, lai zarēns paliktu uz takas. Zarēns diemžēl nepaklausīja padomam un viņu aizrāva mēžonīgu piedzīvojumu un briesmu virpulis.
Šīs grāmatas valodas stils ir interesants, un gandrīz katra rindkopa atklāj ko nezināmu. Lielākā daļa vārdu cilvēkiem, vietām un objektiem ir autoru pašizdomājums, kas ik brīdi lika pavērties atpakaļ stāstā un atcerēties, ko tieši autors ar šo vārdu bija domājis. Autori ir iekļāvuši arī neskaitāmi daudz salīdzinājumu un epitetu, kas labāk ļauj atklāt sižeta straujos pavērsienus.
Galvenā varoņa unikālā izcelsme piedāvā lasītājam ceļot cauri daudzajiem šķēršļiem, kā caur savdabīgām puzlēm, ko radījuši autori. Notikumi stāstā patstāvīgi mainās, katru reizi, kad beidzas kāds notikums, aiz tā seko jau nākamais. Stāsta spraigais sižets neatslābst ne mirkli, tā ieintriģējot lasītājus līdz pat grāmatas beigām. Pēc grāmatas izlasīšanas, ikvienam lasītājam, arī man, tai skaitā, rodas vēlme izlasīt grāmatas turpinājumu.
Grāmata sniedza priekšsatu par fantastikas žanra moderno versiju. Grāmatas sižetā galvenais moto ir - nekad neatkāpties no saviem mērķiem nekādu šķēršļu priekšā. Liels palīgs pārbaudījumu pārvarēšanai vienmēr ir patiesas draudzības spēkam. Liela nozīme katra cilvēka un arī troļļa dzīvē ir vecāku labajam padomam, ko nevienmēr dzīvē izdodas uzreiz saprast, to saprotam ar laiku. Iesaku grāmatu izasīt visiem fantastikas cienītājiem.
Piedzīvojums sākas Malazsemē galvenā varoņa - Zarēna audžuvecāku mājā. Malaszeme ir vieta, kas atrodas starp debesīm un zemi, tā, gluži vienkārši, peld pa mākoņiem. Zarēns ir 13 gadīgs zēns, vinš ir unikāls un nepieder nevienai citai sugai, kas atrodama Malaszemē, tāpēc viņš netiek ieredzēts savu vienaudžu starpā. Audžuvecāki, kas pēc izcelsmes ir troļļi, viņu atrada mežā, kad viņš vēl bija ļoti mazs zēns. Zarēnam, augot lielam, tika mācīts nekad nenogriezties no takas. Kādu dienu vecāki nolēma sūtīt Zarēnu pie viņa brālēna, kurš atradās otrpus mežam, piekodinot, lai zarēns paliktu uz takas. Zarēns diemžēl nepaklausīja padomam un viņu aizrāva mēžonīgu piedzīvojumu un briesmu virpulis.
Šīs grāmatas valodas stils ir interesants, un gandrīz katra rindkopa atklāj ko nezināmu. Lielākā daļa vārdu cilvēkiem, vietām un objektiem ir autoru pašizdomājums, kas ik brīdi lika pavērties atpakaļ stāstā un atcerēties, ko tieši autors ar šo vārdu bija domājis. Autori ir iekļāvuši arī neskaitāmi daudz salīdzinājumu un epitetu, kas labāk ļauj atklāt sižeta straujos pavērsienus.
Galvenā varoņa unikālā izcelsme piedāvā lasītājam ceļot cauri daudzajiem šķēršļiem, kā caur savdabīgām puzlēm, ko radījuši autori. Notikumi stāstā patstāvīgi mainās, katru reizi, kad beidzas kāds notikums, aiz tā seko jau nākamais. Stāsta spraigais sižets neatslābst ne mirkli, tā ieintriģējot lasītājus līdz pat grāmatas beigām. Pēc grāmatas izlasīšanas, ikvienam lasītājam, arī man, tai skaitā, rodas vēlme izlasīt grāmatas turpinājumu.
Grāmata sniedza priekšsatu par fantastikas žanra moderno versiju. Grāmatas sižetā galvenais moto ir - nekad neatkāpties no saviem mērķiem nekādu šķēršļu priekšā. Liels palīgs pārbaudījumu pārvarēšanai vienmēr ir patiesas draudzības spēkam. Liela nozīme katra cilvēka un arī troļļa dzīvē ir vecāku labajam padomam, ko nevienmēr dzīvē izdodas uzreiz saprast, to saprotam ar laiku. Iesaku grāmatu izasīt visiem fantastikas cienītājiem.
March 4, 2021
I wish I met Twig and all of the Deepwoods when I was a child, but even now, I'm glad I've got a chance to know them!
May 10, 2009
This book is about a 13 year old Twig who discovers that he was abandoned at birth by a unknown person. Twig goes on a long journey through Deepwoods to try to get back his family. He makes his way through goblins and trogs and beasts who drink blood for fun.
I didnt really like this book, because of it's plot. It's a fairy tail book and I'm not a fan of books of that kind. The only reason why i never put it down was because i was waiting for something good to happen, by the time i realized nothing good was going to happen it was too late for me to put ti down. I was so deep into the book.
I wouldn't recommend this book to people who are like me, and dont like reading fairy tail books. If i were to rate this book out of ten, i would give it a two.
I didnt really like this book, because of it's plot. It's a fairy tail book and I'm not a fan of books of that kind. The only reason why i never put it down was because i was waiting for something good to happen, by the time i realized nothing good was going to happen it was too late for me to put ti down. I was so deep into the book.
I wouldn't recommend this book to people who are like me, and dont like reading fairy tail books. If i were to rate this book out of ten, i would give it a two.
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