On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness

Leeli uses a crutch to walk because she cannot use one of her legs. Her crutch is a symbol of her abilities. Although she is different, she is still capable and is usually able to keep up with her older brothers. Her crutch also ties her to Podo, who is missing a leg from his days as a pirate. Podo’s wooden leg never slows him down, and he is one of the more physically capable characters in the story. He is the one who makes Leeli new crutches when she needs them. By ensuring that Leeli always has a crutch to use, Podo shows his love and care for his granddaughter. He gives her the opportunity to be an active participant in her life and in most of the Igiby children’s adventures.

Leeli’s crutch also represents resistance in The Struggle Between Good and Evil and her determination to fight for good. After Leeli is arrested by the Fangs for kicking Slarb, Podo carves “Lizardkicker” into her new crutch, proving that even the youngest and smallest Igiby is still a formidable opponent to the Fangs. Though the Igiby children are just ordinary people (or so they think), they are still capable of fighting back against evil and standing up for one another.