The characters are colorful. Of the Igiby family we get to know Janner the best as we work with him through his struggles of growing up. Elegant Nia and short-fused Podo are interesting and complex. Another intriguing player is Peet the Sock Man, who gets his twords all wisted, lives in a surprise-filled treehouse and wears socks on his hands. Of course the fangs are thoroughly evil and as loathsome as a bad smell.

Peterson’s entertaining story-telling style makes the book an excellent a read-aloud. The book contains several entire songs (Peterson, after all, is a lyricist in his day job), as well as maps and a couple of line drawings to make it an altogether convincing other-world adventure – not to speak of the sly and kid-friendly humor that brings on many a case of titters (booger gruel and snot wax candles indeed!).

But though the story is entertaining, the themes are serious. The struggle of good against evil is woven through the book. Character development gets front page billing as Janner faces his selfishness, fear and jealousy. The children learn about loyalty, responsibility, respect, courage, forgiveness, and the importance of serving. And there is lots of scope to read a Narnia-style message into the characters and events.

Some of the questions about the world of Aeriwar, the jewels of Anniera, and the Igiby children’s father are answered by the end of book. But the loose ends that are left ensure that readers old and young will eagerly anticipate Book 2 of The Wingfeather Saga. On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness (Book 1) – is due out mid-March.