Beyond the Deepwoods

The Edge Chronicles, Book 4

By: Paul Stewart, Chris Riddell

Narrated by: Michael Praed

Young Twig lives in the Deepwoods, among the Woodtrolls, but he isn't one of them. In a brave attempt to find out where he belongs, Twig wanders into the mysterious, fascinating, and sometimes hazardous world beyond the Deepwoods. In his travels he encounters myriad peculiar creatures, like his wise guardian, the Caterbird; the Slaughterers, a peaceful race who butcher animals for their livelihood; and the vicious, bile-swilling Rotsucker. Always mindful of the Gloamglozer, whose presence haunts the thoughts of all the inhabitants of The Edge, Twig pursues his quest until he discovers his roots, not among the trees, but in the skies. With his new allies, the Sky Pirates, Twig prepares to embark on his next adventure.©1998 Paul Stewart and Chris Riddell; (P)2005 Random House Audiobooks

Critic reviews

"In the Tolkien/Pratchett tradition...written with more than usual elegance." ( Sunday Times)

Volume leveling needs work.

Near constant peril at a confusing level. Near constant removal of headphones when there's shouting and screaming (of which there is lots), as the volume leveling is terrible and will blow out your eardrums or car speakers.

Positive: If you like stories where the journey is more important than the destination, this is a 3 hour fairy tale about exactly that.

Rushed story... abridged

I had read the print book many, many years ago and thought I'd revisit it in audiobook format. I didn't remember the story being so rushed and choppy. Maybe it is - I'll have to dig out my hard copy. However I also just noticed that this is an "abridged" audiobook... which I'm guessing may have something, or possibly everything, to do with it. Disappointing. I was looking forward to revisiting the whole series in audio format. Now not so much.