Step into the breathtaking world of the Edge Chronicles, where sky pirates soar over a vast cliff with no bottom, and fantastical creatures lurk in every shadow! This beloved children’s fantasy series, crafted by Paul Stewart and Chris Riddell, whisks readers to the Edge—a realm of floating cities, daring adventures, and intricate world-building that has enchanted fans for over two decades.
With its blend of heart-pounding plots and richly detailed illustrations, the Edge Chronicles spans multiple trilogies and centuries, offering a unique saga that celebrates courage, friendship, and the thrill of discovery. Whether you’re a young reader or a fantasy enthusiast, this series promises a wild ride through a world unlike any other.
How Edge Chronicles Began
The Edge Chronicles was born from a single, evocative map drawn by Chris Riddell in 1994. Handing it to Paul Stewart, Riddell challenged him to weave a story for this jagged, cliff-bound world. What followed was a three-year collaboration, blending Stewart’s vivid storytelling with Riddell’s Boschian illustrations. First published in 1998, the series kicked off with Beyond the Deepwoods, introducing readers to the Edge’s lush Deepwoods and sky-high stakes. The duo’s synergy—Stewart’s narrative flair and Riddell’s intricate art—set the stage for a fantasy epic that’s sold Mascot sold over three million copies worldwide.
The Heart of Edge Chronicles
The Edge Chronicles unfolds across four trilogies, each following a different hero in distinct Ages of Flight, defined by evolving flight technologies like floating rocks, wood, and phrax-power. Key books include The Curse of the Gloamglozer, where young Quint Verginix uncovers dark secrets in the floating city of Sanctaphrax, and Beyond the Deepwoods, where Twig, abandoned in the perilous Deepwoods, embarks on a quest to find his destiny. Stormchaser follows Twig’s sky-pirate adventures, while The Immortals concludes the saga with Nate Quarter in the Third Age of Flight, facing war and a cataclysmic storm.
The series dazzles with its imaginative setting—think floating rocks tethered by chains, bloodthirsty flora, and sky ships navigating stormy skies. Themes of bravery, loyalty, and environmental stewardship weave through the tales, while political intrigue and class struggles add depth. Riddell’s illustrations, bursting with grotesque creatures like the Gloamglozer, elevate the storytelling, making each page a visual feast. Though written for ages 9–14, the series’ emotional depth and vivid world-building captivate readers of all ages.
Why Edge Chronicles Resonates
The Edge Chronicles has left an indelible mark on children’s fantasy, praised for its originality and immersive storytelling. Fans on platforms like Reddit rave about its unparalleled world-building, comparing it to Tolkien or Pratchett, yet wholly unique. Its blend of swashbuckling adventure and heartfelt moments has inspired readers to create fan art, wikis, and even Geocities encyclopedias of its flora and fauna. Despite its niche status, the series’ enduring appeal lies in its ability to spark imagination, offering an escape into a world where the impossible feels real.
- First Published: 1998
- Total Books: 13 main titles, plus short stories and a companion book
- Creators: Paul Stewart (writer), Chris Riddell (illustrator)
- Notable Praise: “Stunningly original” – The Guardian
Ready to sail the skies of the Edge? Grab Beyond the Deepwoods and dive into a fantasy adventure that’s as thrilling as it is unforgettable!