Chapter 1 - Jump

 In the very first chapter of this book, we are introduced to the main protagonist of the novel, and the kind of world that this story takes place in. Based on the synopsis, this story takes place millions of years ago, long before humans existed, in a world inhabited by prehistoric animals. The protagonist is a newborn chiropter, who was just born not too long ago, named Dusk. Chiropters are one of the many organisms inhabiting this world, and are the main focus of this book. They are small organisms which most likely resemble modern day bats, except they are only capable of gliding, and have fur on their wings. Right from the beginning, it is evident that Dusk is different from the rest of the other chiropters. Unlike the others, his wings aren't covered in fur, and his upper body seems to be much larger than the rest of his body. As a result, he was very different from the other chiropters.

A picture of Dusk, as shown in the book

The chapter follows Dusk's first ever gliding lesson, from his father, Icaron, who just happens to be the leader of their colony. The lesson goes well, but during his first ever glide, Dusk feels the urge to flap his wings. His father reprimands him for doing so, saying that chiropters aren't supposed to fly, and that trying to fly will only make Dusk even more different from the others.

From reading the first chapter of this book, I noticed many reoccurring themes from other books by Kenneth Oppel, and many similarities between the protagonist in this novel, and the one in Silverwing. They are both very different from the others in the colony, yet, because of the status of their parents, are respected, and at the same time envied by others. This reminds me a little bit of the story of David and Goliath, how someone who was never supposed to win the battle, did. This is similar to what happens in the Silverwing books, and I expect the same will most likely happen in Darkwing. This first chapter takes us through Dusk's first ever experience doing something in which he was very anxious for. I think many of us can relate to this.

After reading the chapter, I found that I really enjoyed it. The book starts off straight into a tiny bit of action, and sets the stage for the rest of the book, which I really like. Overall, I am enjoying the book so far.