Review by Jill Williamson
Medieval fantasy is one of my favorite genres, so it was no surprise that I enjoyed Jonathan Roger’s The Bark of the Bog Owl. This is the fist book in the Wilderking Trilogy, which parallels the life of King David.
An old prophet tells Aiden, a shepherd boy from Corenwald, that he is to become the Wilderking. The idea is so far-fetched, Aiden’s older brothers laugh it off. Even his father wonders if the old prophet is getting too old. Aiden, however, has had dreams about such things for a while now. He can’t help but wonder, is the old man a prophet or a madman?
When the Pyrthen Empire breaks their treaty with Corenwald, Aiden’s brothers are sent to war. Aiden bides his time at home, taking care of his father and worrying about his brothers. Finally his father permits him to take food and supplies to his brothers on the battlefield. Aiden can hardly wait to see the battle in action.
When he arrives, he is disheartened. The Corenwald people are afraid of the Pyrthen warrior. Aiden is ready to go home when the enemy warrior insults the One God. Enraged, Aiden volunteers to fight the giant himself.
Rogers creates a wonderful medieval world complete with Feechie Folk, a lizard-like forest dwelling people. He also molds a brave and loyal character in young Aiden, who never hesitates to stand up for the One God, whom he loves. In Aiden’s words, “I cannot hear our enemies speak against Corenwald and the One God without giving answer.”
If you enjoy fantasy stories, this is a must read.
Recommended for ages 8-12.
Genre: Fantasy
Part of a Series: Book one of the Wilderking Trilogy
Pages: 231
Publisher: Broadman & Holman
Released: 2004
[...] Opener June: House of Dark Shadows by Robert Liparulo (Click on title to read a review.) July: The Bark of the Bog Owl by Jonathan Rogers (Click on title to read a review.) August: Knight’s Sword Letter Opener [...]