On The Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness
This week saw the release of Andrew Peterson's first novel: On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness. Andrew Peterson is a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter and recording artist, and he also happens to be a natural-born storyteller. He wrote and produced what is in my opinion the finest ever Christmas song collection, Behold the Lamb of God. He has recorded seven albums and tours every year, though it surely is a crime that we've not yet seen him in Ireland! click on over to his website here
Today we're taking part in the Andrew Peterson blog tour to celebrate the release of the book. Any listen through Andrew's albums reveal a gifted storyteller and I'm not ashamed to say I've been caught up and moved to tears more than once by his songs. When I listen to 'Canaan Bound' I'm standing right there with old Abraham, gazing into the distance as his long journey begins. When I listen to 'Labour of Love', I'm right there in the streets of David's town peering into the stable as 'little Mary full of grace with tears upon her face', grips Joseph's calloused hands.
Songs such as 'Havens Grey' reveal the influence of Tolkien, and is infused with the sure and certain hope that our death is not final and a safe harbour awaits. In 'Little Boy Heart Alive' he looks at the world in wonder and grasps something (with a nod to C.S. Lewis) of the wild adventure that following Jesus is.
Open the door and run outside
Your little boy heart alive
Into the morning light
Into the deep and wide
Take a ride on the mighty lion
Take a hold of the golden mane
This is the love of Jesus
So good but it is not tame
AP undoubtedly has a love for these great writers and it seems appropriate that his first book is a fantastical tale that will sit comfortably alongside the works of Lewis and Tolkien on my book shelf without ever becoming derivative. This is a tale that children/adults of all ages will enjoy, it reminded me of the feeling I had when I first read the Hobbit; the discovery of a new world to explore and get lost in... the world of Aerwiar, in the land of Skree where we discover our heroes- Janner Igiby, little brother Tink, and crippled sister Leeli. There are lost Jewels, the toothy cows of skree, a grandfather who happens to be a retired pirate, dragons, the dreaded Fangs of Dang and an adventure that would make the Goonies proud!
It also happens to be a very intelligent, witty and funny read. I was only two pages into the introduction and it had me laughing out loud, and the footnotes scattered throughout are often hilarious. The book itself is beautifully illustrated and I love the short chapters which will make it a superb bed-time book to read to my kids. Andrew has spun a captivating tale, and created a magical world that gives us insight into our own. And if you listen closely and you'll hear echos of the one great story as we are reminded that there is so much more majesty and mystery than meets the eye.
This is book one of 'The Wingfeather Saga' and I for one will eagerly await book two. Meanwhile someone needs to convince AP to record the audio book complete with a soundtrack and songs put to music!
I have a copy of 'On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness' to give away. Really, the contest couldn't be easier. To be eligible to win just comment on this post and I'll hold a drawing on Easter Sunday and annouce the winner, a copy of 'on the edge of the dark sea of darkness' will then be sailing your way.
It sounds great!
Posted by: Rach | March 22, 2008 at 12:14 AM
Sounds like another book to put onto my pile to read once I graduate!! Oh man I can't wait for that day, just over 2 months...
Catch up soon, don't worry about the draw either - if their are no other comments, let Rach have it.
Posted by: Graeme | March 22, 2008 at 04:06 PM
The book looks awesone just from the front cover - extremely eye-catching. To have your first book that will sit on shelves alongside the great CS Lewis and the wonderful Tolkien it's pretty amazing. So needing a good read right now.
Posted by: Debs | March 22, 2008 at 05:21 PM
After reading your post I went and had a listen to his album 'The Far Country'. I hadn't listened to it in a while and had forgotten how good it is, thanks for reminding me. His music gives you hope especially 'Lay you down'. He is a truely gifted guy
Posted by: Rose | March 23, 2008 at 12:25 AM