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Through the Ice
Seth is whisked from fighting teenage punks in Michigan to being part of a quest—along with Tirsa the telepath, Rame the faun, and Vidav the giant—when he falls through the ice.
290 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1989
12 people are currently reading
590 people want to read
About the author
Piers Anthony
441 books4,217 followersThough he spent the first four years of his life in England, Piers never returned to live in his country of birth after moving to Spain and immigrated to America at age six. After graduating with a B.A. from Goddard College, he married one of his fellow students and and spent fifteen years in an assortment of professions before he began writing fiction full-time.
Piers is a self-proclaimed environmentalist and lives on a tree farm in Florida with his wife. They have two grown daughters.
Piers is a self-proclaimed environmentalist and lives on a tree farm in Florida with his wife. They have two grown daughters.
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February 18, 2024
Barb and I have now read this stand-alone fantasy novel twice, the previous time being back in the early 90s (I remembered more of it than she did, but given the lapse of some 30 years, much of it was like a new read). When we originally acquired the book as a flea market purchase, Piers Anthony was familiar to us (mostly as the author of the humorous fantasy Xanth series); but we'd never heard before of his co-author, Robert Kornwise. As we learned from the 17+ page Author's Note by Anthony which concludes the book, there was a good reason for that. Robert (known to his friends as Rob) was an intelligent and popular teen growing up in small-town Michigan in the 80s. Anthony was his favorite author, and his primary inspiration for embarking on a fantasy novel of his own. But while it was in progress, he was tragically killed in a car accident in Dec. 1987, at the age of 16. Some of his friends, who were aware of his project, sent his partial manuscript to Anthony, and invited him to consider a posthumous collaboration. With the permission of Rob's family, he agreed. The present book, copyrighted in 1989 in the name of both authors, is the result.
Of the book's 12 chapters, Rob wrote chapters 1-4, and 7-9. (The original chapter 5 was lost to a computer glitch, and he died before he could replace it.) Anthony wrote the rest, inserting two chapters rather than one into the gap, and also polished and expanded on the text of Rob's chapters; but as he explains in the Author's Note, he kept virtually all of the original text, and in developing the completed plot did his best to follow Rob's literary vision and intent, as far as it could be known from the available clues and interactions with his family and friends. This Note itself is also a moving tribute to the co-author Anthony never actually met, as he came to know him through these people's memories, and a poignant bearing of Anthony's own soul as well. A collaboration of this type is unusual in the modern book trade; but it became a deeply emotional project for the older author, whose dearly loved cousin (also smart and multitalented) died when both boys were in their teens. For Anthony, it became a way to, in some sense, find healing for the tragedy represented by these premature deaths.
Our story begins in Rob's native Michigan, with 17-year-old protagonist Seth Warner, against his better judgment, at a teenage New Year's Eve party with a friend (who was trying to get the attention of a particular girl). Seth's in many ways probably an alter ego of the younger author: both are smart, athletic, level-headed and mature young men; ethnically and religiously Jewish and serious about their belief in God and their desire to do the right thing; caring about both people and animals; into hiking/camping and winter sports. Their family structure is very similar; and they're even both trained in a real-life Oriental martial arts form, Ryu Kyu No Te. But in the first chapter, an altercation with a gaggle of quarrelsome and drunken or stoned "punkers" out for mayhem leads to a hasty retreat, a pursuit, a car wreck, and an accidental plunge through the thinly-frozen ice on the local lake, to what Seth's convinced is death by drowning. However, he wakes up on a warm beach --and soon finds himself in a conversation with a talking tree.
As we presently learn, he's on an alternate Earth in a different "plane" of reality (and in this one, Plane 4, magic works). Long story short, he's one of the four diverse Chosen, one from each of the known planes, brought here by a magical call, in response to a prophecy, through a near-death experience which left a split-off doppelganger in his place. These four Chosen must combat the machinations of an ultra-powerful and nefarious sorcerer (named --what else?-- Nefarious :-) ), whose drive for absolute power is, in some murky fashion, distorting and threatening the moral order of all four planes. So, this disparate band is soon off on a quest to confront the wizard; but they don't have a yellow brick road to follow, and the journey will be fraught with challenging and potentially lethal dangers. (Not to mention a very uncertain outcome awaiting at the end of what may be a suicide mission.)
Anthony was the dominant stylist here, in the final shaping of the prose; and both authors had very compatible visions. So for readers who've read much in the Xanth corpus, there's a somewhat similar feel, except that the tone is more serious and Anthony greatly curbs his penchant for bringing far-out puns to life. (Though he doesn't totally check it at the door; watch on Earth Plane 4 is often kept by Sen-trees....) His characteristic very strong ethical orientation is noticeable here too (and both collaborators clearly shared it); ethical questions and considerations are a major theme, and will bulk large in the denouement. And though Anthony is by his own statement an agnostic, his ethics are of the traditional, altruistic sort taught in the Jewish-Christian tradition (which Anthony believes, in keeping with the natural-law tradition, are discoverable by reason); at one point here, Seth even approvingly quotes Jesus' words, "What does it profit a man to gain the world, if he lose his own soul?" though without explicitly citing the source. The plot is well constructed, and the narrative is fast-paced. Although the target audience is YA, the tale can appeal just as much to adults (Barb liked it at least as much as I did).
Seth is the best developed character, followed by fellow Chosen Tirsa, and Rame, the faun from Plane 4; but on the whole I'd say the storyline is more plot-driven than character-driven. The episodes of the journey tend to feature a "problem + solution" structure; that is to say, a challenge presents itself, and is overcome by some artifact or talent a member of the group can bring to bear. (A strong theme is the value of cooperation and teamwork.) I was inclined to associate this type of structure with computerized video games (although I don't play them and am no expert!), until I remembered that in 1989, those probably couldn't have been of much influence. Where culture and politics are concerned, the world-building is not very strong, and the problem of different languages is handled a bit improbably. But none of these points were deal-breakers. There is a romance, but it's relatively low-key, and clean. Technically, Tirsa could be counted as an action heroine, but combat action scenes are actually very sparse. In Anthony's words, the book "does not dwell unduly on sex or bloodshed." There's also no bad language. (There is some non-gratuitous nudity, but it's not described salaciously, and is treated as something that should be taken in stride, without disrespectful or unwholesome thoughts about it.)
From my memories of the prior read, I was expecting to rate the experience at three stars; but after this one, I felt it deserved four. I'd recommend it to most fans of traditional fantasy, especially those who like a self-contained tale that doesn't force you into a long-drawn-out series.
Of the book's 12 chapters, Rob wrote chapters 1-4, and 7-9. (The original chapter 5 was lost to a computer glitch, and he died before he could replace it.) Anthony wrote the rest, inserting two chapters rather than one into the gap, and also polished and expanded on the text of Rob's chapters; but as he explains in the Author's Note, he kept virtually all of the original text, and in developing the completed plot did his best to follow Rob's literary vision and intent, as far as it could be known from the available clues and interactions with his family and friends. This Note itself is also a moving tribute to the co-author Anthony never actually met, as he came to know him through these people's memories, and a poignant bearing of Anthony's own soul as well. A collaboration of this type is unusual in the modern book trade; but it became a deeply emotional project for the older author, whose dearly loved cousin (also smart and multitalented) died when both boys were in their teens. For Anthony, it became a way to, in some sense, find healing for the tragedy represented by these premature deaths.
Our story begins in Rob's native Michigan, with 17-year-old protagonist Seth Warner, against his better judgment, at a teenage New Year's Eve party with a friend (who was trying to get the attention of a particular girl). Seth's in many ways probably an alter ego of the younger author: both are smart, athletic, level-headed and mature young men; ethnically and religiously Jewish and serious about their belief in God and their desire to do the right thing; caring about both people and animals; into hiking/camping and winter sports. Their family structure is very similar; and they're even both trained in a real-life Oriental martial arts form, Ryu Kyu No Te. But in the first chapter, an altercation with a gaggle of quarrelsome and drunken or stoned "punkers" out for mayhem leads to a hasty retreat, a pursuit, a car wreck, and an accidental plunge through the thinly-frozen ice on the local lake, to what Seth's convinced is death by drowning. However, he wakes up on a warm beach --and soon finds himself in a conversation with a talking tree.
As we presently learn, he's on an alternate Earth in a different "plane" of reality (and in this one, Plane 4, magic works). Long story short, he's one of the four diverse Chosen, one from each of the known planes, brought here by a magical call, in response to a prophecy, through a near-death experience which left a split-off doppelganger in his place. These four Chosen must combat the machinations of an ultra-powerful and nefarious sorcerer (named --what else?-- Nefarious :-) ), whose drive for absolute power is, in some murky fashion, distorting and threatening the moral order of all four planes. So, this disparate band is soon off on a quest to confront the wizard; but they don't have a yellow brick road to follow, and the journey will be fraught with challenging and potentially lethal dangers. (Not to mention a very uncertain outcome awaiting at the end of what may be a suicide mission.)
Anthony was the dominant stylist here, in the final shaping of the prose; and both authors had very compatible visions. So for readers who've read much in the Xanth corpus, there's a somewhat similar feel, except that the tone is more serious and Anthony greatly curbs his penchant for bringing far-out puns to life. (Though he doesn't totally check it at the door; watch on Earth Plane 4 is often kept by Sen-trees....) His characteristic very strong ethical orientation is noticeable here too (and both collaborators clearly shared it); ethical questions and considerations are a major theme, and will bulk large in the denouement. And though Anthony is by his own statement an agnostic, his ethics are of the traditional, altruistic sort taught in the Jewish-Christian tradition (which Anthony believes, in keeping with the natural-law tradition, are discoverable by reason); at one point here, Seth even approvingly quotes Jesus' words, "What does it profit a man to gain the world, if he lose his own soul?" though without explicitly citing the source. The plot is well constructed, and the narrative is fast-paced. Although the target audience is YA, the tale can appeal just as much to adults (Barb liked it at least as much as I did).
Seth is the best developed character, followed by fellow Chosen Tirsa, and Rame, the faun from Plane 4; but on the whole I'd say the storyline is more plot-driven than character-driven. The episodes of the journey tend to feature a "problem + solution" structure; that is to say, a challenge presents itself, and is overcome by some artifact or talent a member of the group can bring to bear. (A strong theme is the value of cooperation and teamwork.) I was inclined to associate this type of structure with computerized video games (although I don't play them and am no expert!), until I remembered that in 1989, those probably couldn't have been of much influence. Where culture and politics are concerned, the world-building is not very strong, and the problem of different languages is handled a bit improbably. But none of these points were deal-breakers. There is a romance, but it's relatively low-key, and clean. Technically, Tirsa could be counted as an action heroine, but combat action scenes are actually very sparse. In Anthony's words, the book "does not dwell unduly on sex or bloodshed." There's also no bad language. (There is some non-gratuitous nudity, but it's not described salaciously, and is treated as something that should be taken in stride, without disrespectful or unwholesome thoughts about it.)
From my memories of the prior read, I was expecting to rate the experience at three stars; but after this one, I felt it deserved four. I'd recommend it to most fans of traditional fantasy, especially those who like a self-contained tale that doesn't force you into a long-drawn-out series.
December 28, 2008
I really enjoyed this book as a teenager. It was my introduction to Piers Anthony. Although I later found out that Robert Kornwise, a 15-yr-old fan of Anthony, wrote the majority of the book. Kornwise died before completing the book, and his mother contacted Anthony, who finished the novel, and it was published under both their names.
After reading more of Anthony's work, I recognized that he was responsible for my least favorite portion of the story. Also, this story is "cleaner" than other Anthony books, due to the influence of the other, Kornwise, who was sadly, a one-time author.
Kornwise wrote more about active adventure. The main character was resourceful, likable, and skilled.
After reading more of Anthony's work, I recognized that he was responsible for my least favorite portion of the story. Also, this story is "cleaner" than other Anthony books, due to the influence of the other, Kornwise, who was sadly, a one-time author.
Kornwise wrote more about active adventure. The main character was resourceful, likable, and skilled.
December 17, 2009
This was strang little book I read some time ago. it was (if I have this right) written by a young man who had passed away and then rewritten by Piers Anthony.
Pretty stright forward fantasy of a hero who finds an alternate world through the ice. I'm not particularly an Anthony fan but have enjoyed a couple of his books. this one is a readable fantasy, okay story, without being a standout.
Pretty stright forward fantasy of a hero who finds an alternate world through the ice. I'm not particularly an Anthony fan but have enjoyed a couple of his books. this one is a readable fantasy, okay story, without being a standout.
September 9, 2009
First of all, let me say that I have nothing but condolences for the late author and his family. It's not my intention to be cruel.
I couldn't finish the book. I can't recommend it to anyone except perhaps someone who is a friend or family member of the author, Robert Kornwise.
I started reading this book and it read like internet fan fiction. The humble narrator is way too cool and ethical to be a real person, so he's obviously a wish fulfillment role for the author.
Yes, folks, he knows kung fu and doesn't drink or do bad things! Perhaps there's a decent story in here somewhere, but the writing is so bad I couldn't find it.
Avoid this book.
I couldn't finish the book. I can't recommend it to anyone except perhaps someone who is a friend or family member of the author, Robert Kornwise.
I started reading this book and it read like internet fan fiction. The humble narrator is way too cool and ethical to be a real person, so he's obviously a wish fulfillment role for the author.
Yes, folks, he knows kung fu and doesn't drink or do bad things! Perhaps there's a decent story in here somewhere, but the writing is so bad I couldn't find it.
Avoid this book.
July 22, 2010
This was the first book I remember reading without prodding, picked up during a middle school book fair. I'm not going to lie; the verbal stylings of Piers Anthony in relation to naked women was a big plus for a young boy, but still, the ending was challenging; not a battle, but a philosophical debate as to why a man who can conquer the will of people cannot possibly hope to claim control of the world by the nature of free thought always evolving. I love this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2015
it blows me away when i read about the things that some authors will do for/with their fans. Robert Kornwise was a first time author with unfinished and unpublished book. Unfortunately, he never got the chance to finish his book. Robert died in a road accident in december 1987.
His friends and family, knowing about his book, reached out to his favorite author, Piers Anthony. They asked him to read his book and see if there is anything he could do to help get it published.
With a fair amount of uncertainty in what he should do, Anthony accepted the idea and read Kornwise’s book.
Apparently, Robert had finished the first 8 chapters and lost the fifth. Anthony, after reading the book, was able to determine a way to help finish the book with out straying from the original authors vision or writing style.
Anthony was able to accomplish this, filling in the gaps and minorly polishing the text. the prologue/authors notes at the end of the book gives a full description of the process as well as some writing samples comparing the original text and the edited text. it is fairly amazong how little work was put in, allowing for Kornwise’s style to shine through.
it is a shame that there will be no more books in this series. the characters deserve to live on in future tales. unfortunately, it would not be right to keep it going with out Kornwise around to oversee or straight up write the tales. you can tell that the main character was modelled directly after himself.
though juvenile in many aspects, there are a great deal of good ideas incorporated into the book. you can tell what is written completely by Anthony, and which were collaborative. fortunately, their writing styles complimented each other well.
~~
Through the Ice, opens with Seth. when he is trapped underneath a sheet of ice, his death should be permanent. instead he finds that he is alive, but in an alternate world, on the beach. the winter snow of his life is somehow missing. immediately upon his arrival, seth is greeted by a talking tree (you can tell who his fav author was) and directed toward his destiny.
Taken to a castle, he is placed in a room with 3 others, all of whom seem to be in similar situations. with their past experiences, individual strengths, and a bit of luck, they will be able to traverse their new world and battle Nefarious (what a kick ass bad guy name). should evil win four interconnected worlds will become lifeless balls. the only choice left to them is to do battle with Nefarious, destroy him and save four worlds.. in return, they will be returned to their previous lives
--
xpost RawBlurb.com
His friends and family, knowing about his book, reached out to his favorite author, Piers Anthony. They asked him to read his book and see if there is anything he could do to help get it published.
With a fair amount of uncertainty in what he should do, Anthony accepted the idea and read Kornwise’s book.
Apparently, Robert had finished the first 8 chapters and lost the fifth. Anthony, after reading the book, was able to determine a way to help finish the book with out straying from the original authors vision or writing style.
Anthony was able to accomplish this, filling in the gaps and minorly polishing the text. the prologue/authors notes at the end of the book gives a full description of the process as well as some writing samples comparing the original text and the edited text. it is fairly amazong how little work was put in, allowing for Kornwise’s style to shine through.
it is a shame that there will be no more books in this series. the characters deserve to live on in future tales. unfortunately, it would not be right to keep it going with out Kornwise around to oversee or straight up write the tales. you can tell that the main character was modelled directly after himself.
though juvenile in many aspects, there are a great deal of good ideas incorporated into the book. you can tell what is written completely by Anthony, and which were collaborative. fortunately, their writing styles complimented each other well.
~~
Through the Ice, opens with Seth. when he is trapped underneath a sheet of ice, his death should be permanent. instead he finds that he is alive, but in an alternate world, on the beach. the winter snow of his life is somehow missing. immediately upon his arrival, seth is greeted by a talking tree (you can tell who his fav author was) and directed toward his destiny.
Taken to a castle, he is placed in a room with 3 others, all of whom seem to be in similar situations. with their past experiences, individual strengths, and a bit of luck, they will be able to traverse their new world and battle Nefarious (what a kick ass bad guy name). should evil win four interconnected worlds will become lifeless balls. the only choice left to them is to do battle with Nefarious, destroy him and save four worlds.. in return, they will be returned to their previous lives
--
xpost RawBlurb.com
October 12, 2008
This book has a interesting origin: Author Robert Kornwise was a teenage fan of Piers Anthony, who was hard at work on his own fantasy novel when he died in (I believe) a car accident. His family contacted Piers, who finished the novel, and it was published under both their names.
The book itself is entertaining. I liked the characters, and it's worth a read, if you're a Piers Anthony fan or just a fantasy fan in general. Don't forget to give a thought to Robert Kornwise as you read it.
The book itself is entertaining. I liked the characters, and it's worth a read, if you're a Piers Anthony fan or just a fantasy fan in general. Don't forget to give a thought to Robert Kornwise as you read it.
January 24, 2008
One of my favorite books growing up.
February 9, 2010
My favorite book from childhood
September 17, 2020
During a New Year’s Eve party, a series of events forces teenager Seth Warner to face a violent dispute that will change his existence forever. The party turns into a frantic chase on the icy roads of Michigan, leading to an inexorable and irreversible outcome. Here magic happens, altering the rules of things, and so “Through The Ice,” Seth’s epic quest begins. Catapulted in a land filled with magic, Seth will meet new friends and they will embark on an exciting journey. On this journey, Seth must put to good use cleverness and courage to overcome difficulties and perils along the way, and ultimately stop a terrible threat. If this is not enough to spur your curiosity, know that this story does not focus on a magical faceoff between Good and Evil, it’s far more than that. “Through The Ice” on the surface is the journey of a group of friends tasked with an important mission in a magical, perilous land populated by elves, gnomes and other magical creatures, but beneath the surface, this story tells of a profound personal journey of growth and understanding, carried through the eyes of a teen gifted with an unpolluted sense of integrity. Seth weaves a final powerful message that will leave the reader pondering life and humanity. All of this devotedly knitted together in a plot that guides the reader through a gripping chain of twist and turns, with a fresh, unblemished, seamless narrative, and lively and versatile characters, that keeps the reader persistently engaged. “Through The Ice” is a true hidden gem, and if you read this review up to this point, then it’s time to discuss the making of this novel.
I waited to tell you this as I would much rather (and I am sure the writer would too) that you did not read this book out of pity, but because it is a good story that deserves to be read. This novel was a labor of love in both its first and second stage, and it has a powerful story of its own behind. One fact stays unchanged, Robert Kornwise is the writer and true creator of this story, this is, in fact, his debut novel, but as you can see it was published under Piers Anthony, a very well-known and respected writer in the fantasy genre. The reason for this is a bitter reality. Robert Kornwise was only 15 years old when he began writing his novel, and he was 16 when he tragically died in a car crash. To honor his memory, his family and friends asked Piers Anthony (Robert’s favorite author) to read his rough drafts and turn it into a real, published novel. Piers Anthony took it upon himself to fulfill Robert’s dream and it was not an easy task as however beautiful and passionate, it was still the unfinished rough draft of a young, inexperienced writer, and he feared that by working his magic he would completely replace Robert’s voice and fail to stay true to Robert’s vision. Despite his fears, Anthony worked through Robert's rough draft, getting to know his mind both through his writing and through his real-life stories given to him by family and friends. In the end, he succeeded in staying true to Robert’s voice. In his author’s note, Pierce Anthony explains that what the reader sees on the pages are Robert’s words, he did not change them he merely expanded where the text needed expanded, and polished where the text needed polished, and the only chapters he created from scratch are the ones that were missing. Readers, especially the more attentive ones, will notice the shift in voices, and frankly, this should be no surprise as it is a collaboration between two writers.
I felt compelled in bringing this knowledge to you as I’ve seen many harsh reviews by some readers that were not prepared to read a story written by such a young and inexperienced writer and hence felt tricked, and unwilling (or incapable) to read it. I read this book as an adult and I knew of the sad background story, but trust me when I say this knowledge did not affect my verdict. In my perspective, “Through The Ice” was a page-turner from page 1. I strongly believe that the true strength of this novel lies with Robert Kornwise’s greenness, it’s like a gorgeous unpolished stone, and I am grateful Piers Anthony was skilled enough to preserve that important trait while giving that professional touch it needed to be published. No, this is not a masterpiece, but then again few books meet that classification, even the greatest books do not always fall in the masterpiece category, but when we discuss good books, we do not just think of masterpieces, we think of a good storyteller with a good story to tell, and “Through The Ice,” thanks to Robert’s passion and Pierce’s experience, it is a respectable and worthy read that will leave you with uplifting thoughts about humanity and a warm feeling in your heart. I highly recommend this book to all the unbiased readers, however, if you are obsessed with “perfectly polished stones” maybe this is not a read for you.
I waited to tell you this as I would much rather (and I am sure the writer would too) that you did not read this book out of pity, but because it is a good story that deserves to be read. This novel was a labor of love in both its first and second stage, and it has a powerful story of its own behind. One fact stays unchanged, Robert Kornwise is the writer and true creator of this story, this is, in fact, his debut novel, but as you can see it was published under Piers Anthony, a very well-known and respected writer in the fantasy genre. The reason for this is a bitter reality. Robert Kornwise was only 15 years old when he began writing his novel, and he was 16 when he tragically died in a car crash. To honor his memory, his family and friends asked Piers Anthony (Robert’s favorite author) to read his rough drafts and turn it into a real, published novel. Piers Anthony took it upon himself to fulfill Robert’s dream and it was not an easy task as however beautiful and passionate, it was still the unfinished rough draft of a young, inexperienced writer, and he feared that by working his magic he would completely replace Robert’s voice and fail to stay true to Robert’s vision. Despite his fears, Anthony worked through Robert's rough draft, getting to know his mind both through his writing and through his real-life stories given to him by family and friends. In the end, he succeeded in staying true to Robert’s voice. In his author’s note, Pierce Anthony explains that what the reader sees on the pages are Robert’s words, he did not change them he merely expanded where the text needed expanded, and polished where the text needed polished, and the only chapters he created from scratch are the ones that were missing. Readers, especially the more attentive ones, will notice the shift in voices, and frankly, this should be no surprise as it is a collaboration between two writers.
I felt compelled in bringing this knowledge to you as I’ve seen many harsh reviews by some readers that were not prepared to read a story written by such a young and inexperienced writer and hence felt tricked, and unwilling (or incapable) to read it. I read this book as an adult and I knew of the sad background story, but trust me when I say this knowledge did not affect my verdict. In my perspective, “Through The Ice” was a page-turner from page 1. I strongly believe that the true strength of this novel lies with Robert Kornwise’s greenness, it’s like a gorgeous unpolished stone, and I am grateful Piers Anthony was skilled enough to preserve that important trait while giving that professional touch it needed to be published. No, this is not a masterpiece, but then again few books meet that classification, even the greatest books do not always fall in the masterpiece category, but when we discuss good books, we do not just think of masterpieces, we think of a good storyteller with a good story to tell, and “Through The Ice,” thanks to Robert’s passion and Pierce’s experience, it is a respectable and worthy read that will leave you with uplifting thoughts about humanity and a warm feeling in your heart. I highly recommend this book to all the unbiased readers, however, if you are obsessed with “perfectly polished stones” maybe this is not a read for you.
November 15, 2012
Seth Warner is on his way home from a party when he is set upon by a group of teenage ruffians. He runs from them and ends up falling through the ice into a lake. Just as he is about to drown, he is wrenched from this world and into another plane where he finds he is a "Chosen" and, along with three others from different planes must, battle a sorcerer by the name of Nefarious. The magical quest brings him into conflict with various agents of Nefarious as well as helpful creatures.
This is a young adult novel with a teen aged protagonist. Seth and his companions are dynamic characters who make realizations about themselves throughout the narrative, as well as develop insights on human nature. Themes include honesty, assumptions, compassion, and power. The plot is suspenseful and adventurous. The world-building is lush, but very similar to another Anthony book I recently read. In fact, the whole thing reminded me a lot of Phaze from the Apprentice Adept series. Since this was a YA title, and a collaboration, there was not as much of the sex and chauvinism one might expect from an Anthony work, for which I was grateful. The relationships throughout seemed genuinely built and to be mutual partnerships.
I would recommend this for a young reader of fantasy. It might even be a great introduction novel for those new to the genre.
This is a young adult novel with a teen aged protagonist. Seth and his companions are dynamic characters who make realizations about themselves throughout the narrative, as well as develop insights on human nature. Themes include honesty, assumptions, compassion, and power. The plot is suspenseful and adventurous. The world-building is lush, but very similar to another Anthony book I recently read. In fact, the whole thing reminded me a lot of Phaze from the Apprentice Adept series. Since this was a YA title, and a collaboration, there was not as much of the sex and chauvinism one might expect from an Anthony work, for which I was grateful. The relationships throughout seemed genuinely built and to be mutual partnerships.
I would recommend this for a young reader of fantasy. It might even be a great introduction novel for those new to the genre.
May 19, 2025
Basic Plot: A teen falls into a fantasy world and has to save the day.
Other reviewers have noted that Piers Anthony picked up where the original teenage author left off with this story, so I won't dive too far into that. I will blame this book for introducing me to Piers Anthony, though this book is different in scope than any of the Xanth books I read as an impressionable youth.
This was my book-form introduction to the trope of sending a person from our world into a fantasy world (aka: isekai). The concept had fascinated me since I saw Labyrinth (and David Bowie's very tight pants) at a young age. Reading a book like this allowed for more processing time, more background, and more thoughts from the main character. I enjoyed it at the time, though many details are lost in my brain due to time and lack of brain-storage space.
Other reviewers have noted that Piers Anthony picked up where the original teenage author left off with this story, so I won't dive too far into that. I will blame this book for introducing me to Piers Anthony, though this book is different in scope than any of the Xanth books I read as an impressionable youth.
This was my book-form introduction to the trope of sending a person from our world into a fantasy world (aka: isekai). The concept had fascinated me since I saw Labyrinth (and David Bowie's very tight pants) at a young age. Reading a book like this allowed for more processing time, more background, and more thoughts from the main character. I enjoyed it at the time, though many details are lost in my brain due to time and lack of brain-storage space.
May 2, 2011
IF you're going to read this book, you need to read the background on its creation. This books story wasn't better or worse to me then any of the others but the background behind it brought it way up in my estimation.
June 28, 2023
I have to recreate my review from memory, and as a result, this may be a more favourable (or harsher?) review than I would give after a fresh reading. Actually, it might be more favourable because the main author (not Piers) is dead, and this was a posthumous publication.
That's the main part I remember about this book, that the author was dead before publication, like with the Men Who Hate Women books. I hate that that's the truth, but it is. The story reads like an amateur writer's first work, because it is, because he worked on it for a year or so before dying in an accident at 16. So I have both a better opinion of it than I maybe should out of pity, and a worse opinion, because Piers fixed it up.
Supposedly it's easy-ish to tell what parts Piers wrote and what parts were untouched. I would have to sit through a reread (which I would, if I could find it), and I'm not super excited about the prospect when there are so many newer, better books coming out. My reacquiring this book will not help Kornwise be any less dead.
Although, I feel like the epilogue-y ending was Piers, because the tone sounded so awkward by comparison. Those are the standout parts to me: he falls through ice (title drop!), the ending has a daughter with a terrible name that just exists to be made into an even worse "pun" (it's not really a pun), and the original author died.
I don't have a lot to say about it otherwise. Maybe the climax seemed more compelling than in other books where violence solves it, but the rest of the book felt like a lot of build-up for a psychological gut-punch. If that sounds like your jam, then by all means have at it!
That's the main part I remember about this book, that the author was dead before publication, like with the Men Who Hate Women books. I hate that that's the truth, but it is. The story reads like an amateur writer's first work, because it is, because he worked on it for a year or so before dying in an accident at 16. So I have both a better opinion of it than I maybe should out of pity, and a worse opinion, because Piers fixed it up.
Supposedly it's easy-ish to tell what parts Piers wrote and what parts were untouched. I would have to sit through a reread (which I would, if I could find it), and I'm not super excited about the prospect when there are so many newer, better books coming out. My reacquiring this book will not help Kornwise be any less dead.
Although, I feel like the epilogue-y ending was Piers, because the tone sounded so awkward by comparison. Those are the standout parts to me: he falls through ice (title drop!), the ending has a daughter with a terrible name that just exists to be made into an even worse "pun" (it's not really a pun), and the original author died.
I don't have a lot to say about it otherwise. Maybe the climax seemed more compelling than in other books where violence solves it, but the rest of the book felt like a lot of build-up for a psychological gut-punch. If that sounds like your jam, then by all means have at it!
October 29, 2025
This was my favorite book from 3rd to 7th grade. I read it every few years for nostalgia’s sake. It was written by a teen that died and his friends convinced Piers Anthony (his favorite writer) to finish it. The main character is really honorable in a way that you don’t see anymore and it’s refreshingly non-sexist for a Piers Anthony book. There are a CRAZY amount of exclamation points throughout the book (it’s like an email from an over-caffeinated Girl-scout troop leader) and I always thought that was Robert Kornwise’s fault but Piers offered examples in the afterward of changes he made and it was his fault! Too bad Kornwise died so young, he could have been a great writer. Still a fun easy read. I recommend giving it to your sons before the YouTube red-pill content gets to them.
January 7, 2019
I’ve actually read this book dozens of times, all during my youth until now. As an adult I find this book painful to read. While there is the bones of a decent plot and hints of world building, the main character is unrealistic and too idyllic to be believable. The thread of misogyny throughout, unnoticed by my preteen and teen years, makes the rereading all the more painful.
It’s terrible what happened to Robert Kornwise and it’s a testament to the kindness of Piers Anthony that this work was finished. But to echo Anthony’s final part of the epilogue, I wish it hadn’t happened. I wish Robert were still alive.
It’s terrible what happened to Robert Kornwise and it’s a testament to the kindness of Piers Anthony that this work was finished. But to echo Anthony’s final part of the epilogue, I wish it hadn’t happened. I wish Robert were still alive.
February 21, 2017
I read this book twenty or so years ago, and it was chiefly Anthony's name on the cover that made me pick it up in the first place. It was the foreword, though, that convinced me to read it. Hell, it was the foreword to this book that inspired me to start reading forewords at all.
The book itself is only so-so, but the story of how the book came to be still moves me.
The book itself is only so-so, but the story of how the book came to be still moves me.
May 4, 2018
The story of how this was written is a story in of itself. The writing reflects the immaturity of the original author which was annoying and refreshing at the same time. Characters you can grow close to and a wonderful new world to explore. Unfortunately there will be no more.
July 10, 2017
This was a good story. Piers Anthony did a good job completing a story written by someone else. I like the ending.
August 10, 2017
I think I might like the one shots that Anthony has done better than his serial stuff. This one in particular. I ALMOST wish there was more but he really did end this nicely.
May 22, 2018
Slapdash and fairly terrible, but two stars because I finished it and didn’t want to throw it away.
May 5, 2019
It’s so a book for teenagers and I love it. Juvenile action, danger, magic, and a happy ending. My favorites.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2021
A conscience can somehow be acquired with cold logic? Because Piers Anthony revised, edited, and finished the story which was begun by Robert Kornwise the story seems off in places.
April 20, 2022
Not bad, just a little too YA for my tastes. I think the story about the author is touching. Way to go Piers Anthony!!
July 4, 2022
I wish there were more to read. I want to read it again, just like the first time, unspoiled. I wish it was a series and every book was this well written.
did-not-finish-or-start
October 27, 2023DNS 10/27/23
September 6, 2025
Over halfway done. Entertaining and fun.
Overall, it was a fun entertaining book. Simple straight forward entertainment.
Overall, it was a fun entertaining book. Simple straight forward entertainment.
April 29, 2013
This was a big book of my childhood; it was the first true fantasy novel I tackled (I was in 4th grade at the time), and it's also the one that opened the floodgates so to speak. Author Piers Anthony has a fairly straightforward writing style, avoiding flowery dialogue and adjective overload; that in and of itself isn't what defined his style, at least not to me. What I always loved about his books was that he was capable of packing a pretty solid punch into each sentence he wrote. The narrative in Through the Ice moves quickly but the pacing, while nothing extraordinary now, is consistent, and the book ties up a vast majority of its loose ends nicely. I would cite this as one of the fantasy novels that influenced me heavily in my younger years.
September 17, 2014
I read this book over a decade ago, but parts of it stand out in my memory, the typical fantastic elements like Hundred-League Boots, magic, accidental but ultimately triumphant (I think) group. If I recall correctly, however, even in my more impressive, pre-feminist years, I recognized the use of the female main character in this as little more than an accessory to the hero. Or at least that's what I remember.
Edited: I found out after I posted my review that the main author was young, which would explain perhaps some of the weaknesses in the overall story that I remember. My first instinct was to go with a 3 star rating, but I talked myself down. I remember it being a pretty fast read and I enjoyed it at the time, so I'm going to go with my gut and rate it 3/5 stars.
Edited: I found out after I posted my review that the main author was young, which would explain perhaps some of the weaknesses in the overall story that I remember. My first instinct was to go with a 3 star rating, but I talked myself down. I remember it being a pretty fast read and I enjoyed it at the time, so I'm going to go with my gut and rate it 3/5 stars.
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