The Sea of Trolls

Nancy Farmer

63 pages 2-hour read

Nancy Farmer

The Sea of Trolls

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2004

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Book Brief

Nancy Farmer

The Sea of Trolls

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

459

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Historical Fiction

Action & Adventure
Setting

Norse Lands • Medieval Fantasy World

Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Coming of Age

Friendship
Publication Year

2004

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

670L

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Super Short Summary

In The Sea of Trolls by Nancy Farmer, twelve-year-old Jack Crookleg, an apprentice to a bard, is kidnapped by Viking raiders alongside his sister, Lucy. They embark on a perilous journey involving trolls, dragons, and mythical creatures to undo a spell cast on Queen Frith, ultimately seeking wisdom from Mimir’s Well to save Lucy and return home safely.

Adventurous

Fantastical

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.3

16,510 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Nancy Farmer's The Sea of Trolls is praised for its rich blend of Norse mythology, compelling characters, and adventurous plot, making it well-suited for middle-grade readers. Critics commend the captivating writing style but note some predictable plot points and occasional pacing issues. Despite these minor flaws, the book's imaginative world-building and vivid storytelling remain a standout.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Sea of Trolls?

Fans of The Sea of Trolls by Nancy Farmer are typically young adult readers who appreciate rich, mythological fantasy worlds and brave protagonists. This book will appeal to enthusiasts of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit or Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series, with its mix of adventure, Norse mythology, and magic.

4.3

16,510 ratings

74%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

An 11-year-old boy who becomes the apprentice of the Bard due to his perceptiveness, curiosity, and determination. He embarks on a transformative journey that includes being kidnapped by Viking raiders, learning their customs, and facing numerous challenges.

The youngest member of the Viking band and a fierce shield maiden, initially portrayed through Jack's misunderstandings of Viking culture. Her complex past and warrior spirit make her both an adversary and ally to Jack.

An Irish mentor to Jack who brings wisdom, magic, and guidance to the story. He plays a critical role in Jack's transformation and quest, providing wisdom and support along the way.

Jack’s younger sister, whose enchanting appearance and innocence drive much of the story's events. Her abduction by the berserkers serves as the catalyst for Jack’s adventure.

The formidable leader of the berserkers who kidnaps Jack and Lucy. He embodies both brutal strength and unexpected complexity, influencing Jack's understanding of honor and culture.

The story’s antagonist, a half-troll with the ability to manipulate and control others. Her actions and desires set many of the novel’s events in motion and challenge Jack’s beliefs and growth.

Book Details
Pages

459

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Historical Fiction

Action & Adventure
Setting

Norse Lands • Medieval Fantasy World

Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Coming of Age

Friendship
Publication Year

2004

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

670L

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