Does this book require reading the previous Earthsea novels first?

The narrative relies heavily on established character histories and the resolution of long-standing conflicts within the archipelago, making it best suited for readers who have already completed the earlier books in the series.

Is there a specific short story that acts as a bridge to this novel?

The short story titled Dragonfly, found in the collection Tales from Earthsea, serves as a direct narrative bridge to the events and character developments in this book.

The Other Wind

Fantasy High Fantasy

Pages: 320
Published: 2001
Language: English

Synopsis

Alder is a simple mender of pots haunted by dreams of the dead, who reach out to him across a crumbling stone wall. To prevent an invasion from the afterlife, he must seek out the former Archmage Ged and a group of unlikely allies, including a dragon in human form. Together, they travel across Earthsea to face a threat that could break the cycle of life and death forever.