TBR-ia: August 12, 2026

This Week’s Wisteria:

A smaller one this time - a little easier, I think.

Still working on the curling.

Tutorial used: Crochet Wisteria Garland Tutorial – No-Sew Flower Strands! - YouTube

This Week’s Book:

The Bark of the Bog Owl, Book 1 in The Wilderking Trilogy by Jonathan Rogers

Quick Summary: Young David from the Bible, but in a setting with swamp people, gators, castles, cannons, and caves

I’ve been looking forward to starting this middle grade series for a while. I accidentally bought the final book first and had to wait until I purchased this one.

It’s interesting to have read two retellings so near each other, the Persuasion in space from a couple posts ago and now this one.

In this telling, our “David” is named Aidan, the youngest son of a nobleman who is very loyal to the king of their kingdom, Corenwald. The plot sticks quite closely to the early story of David in scripture, with the aforementioned setting changes to mix things up and keep them interesting.

I enjoyed the poetic prophecies sprinkled through the book and was entertained by the characterization of Aidan’s version of Samuel the prophet (accompanied by a billy and a nanny goat). Aidan also befriends a boy his own age who lives in the nearby swamplands, a friendship that plays a key role later in the story.

Some quotes I appreciated:

“‘Live the life that unfolds before you. Love goodness more than you fear evil.’”

“He will silence the braggart, ennoble the coward. Watch for the Wilderking!”

“‘[…] to the One God we commend our lives and this mission.’”

“‘Who knows what the future holds? Only the One God. […] You just live the little bit of life that you can see in front of you. You live it well. And that gets you ready for whatever unfolds next.’”

Since the main events of this story can be guessed by anyone familiar with the story of David, I don’t want to say too much in case someone wants to read it and see the differences for themselves.

Overall:

I was encouraged, especially by parts like the above quotes, to remember that I am only responsible for the choice right in front of me. God will take care of the unseen things on the path ahead.

I would recommend this book to anyone, child or adult, who would like a fresh look at the extraordinary connection between a young man and his God that we still today reference as an example of faith and courage.

Wishing you goodness without end,

Jess