I was re-reading the series this year, and I discovered that I've never actually read this installment before. I love the art throughout the series. And I particularly enjoyed this installment, perhaps because it was new for me! ( )

Right off the bat, I was blown away by Wendy Pini who is an absolutely phenomenal artist. The entire thing is rich with color and a distinctive flair that I came to appreciate as Wendy's signature style. Another reviewer said that this series is born more of the heart than of the mind and I totally agree with them. [A/N: If you're looking for a cerebral sci-fi then you have made a wrong turn and need to look at your directions a little more closely.] Pini has created a true fantasy epic that is about the people just as much (maybe more so) than the journey they undertake.

And then came along Volume 3 where Cutter and his best friend (and possibly lover if you read between the lines) Skywise (my favorite character) are on a quest to find the rest of their Elvin kinfolk and the home of the High Ones (if such a place exists). Their quest leads them to foreign lands where they are met by humans who view them as gods instead of enemies and who speak of others who look as they do with pointy ears (but much taller). When they finally locate those that call themselves the High Ones (and who ride on giant birds) they are not welcomed with open arms but with scorn, distrust, and outright hatred. The group's elder wishes for them to stay but his adviser (and the power behind the throne) has other plans in mind. Winnowill possess the opposite of Leetah's gifts (Leetah is Cutter's mate) which means she has the power to hurt and even to kill so her threats are anything but empty. #dangeraplenty

This series looks in depth at these characters and examines their relationships, philosophies, and general way of life. We learn that appearances are deceiving because these so-called warriors are at their core simply a resilient little family just trying to find their place in the world. Full of romance, bloodshed, redemption, and definitely suspense I was shocked at how quickly Elfquest worked its spell on me. 10/10 and can hardly wait for Volume 4.

On with the Quest!! ( )

This is another gorgeous Donning book in the "original" four book series. The color is stunningly brilliant and the story has unexpected twists. The characters develop more depth, both our heroes and villains. They were never one-dimensional, but they continue to grow in unexpected ways.

You'll need to have read the first books in the series to fully enjoy this one, but if you like well-told fantasy, I urge you to read it. ( )

Third in the "Original Quest" arc. Cutter and his tribe go to Blue Mountain to rescue one of their own, and find themselves welcomed by the ancient, mysterious Gliders -- flying elves that have lived in the mountain for centuries. But things in Blue Mountain are more sinister than they appear. Great story, ridiculously beautiful art.

http://www.elfquest.com/gallery/OnlineComics/OQ/OQ11/DisplayOQ11.html ( )

Part three of the original Quest. After this one, I went on to read the Marvel/Epic reprints of the rest of the original quest, and then the Father Tree Press editions of "Siege at Blue Mountain" and "Kings of the Broken Wheel". A lot of people have expressed a preference for the coloring in the FTP reprints, but I really like what Wendy's doing with Photoshop and hope they'll be releasing as many of the Elfquest stories as possible -- at least through "Kings"! ( )