What a truly splendid book. 

I was slightly wary when I started reading, as the only characters whose first descriptions mentioned their race were the black characters. I assume everyone else is white, but we’re never told, we’re only told which characters are black. It did strike me as odd, as if the default for a person is white. But taking into account the time this book was published, that Barker was married to a black man at the time, that there were no other weird race related things (in fact it was a surprisingly diverse book for 2002), and that I’ve never had similar vibes from other books of his I’ve read, I’ve decided to give Barker the benefit of the doubt. 

And thank God, because was an amazing book. The Abarat is insanely imaginative, in a way I feel I haven't read in a VERY long time. Barker doesn’t base the fantasy creatures on tropes/commonly used creatures (elves, demons etc.), they’re completely unique, yet they feel utterly real. The mix of 'animal' and human is great, and the idea of them losing their natural abilities/adaptations (e.g. not being able to breathe water anymore) is tragic and fascinating. 

And the worldbuilding in general is so unique. I loved all of the different islands, and that the society wasn’t based around a strict kingdom/feudal structure in the way most fantasy is. 

The way technology is mixed in with all the fantasy elements also felt so original. Pretty much all fantasy I’ve read has either the Tolkien-esque vibe, or is a grittier urban fantasy that incorporates modern technology. This novel, however, is a truly refreshing take on the genre.  
 
And when the pieces came together about who Candy is?? Ooof. It fit in perfectly with the whimsical and homely, yet sinister and uncomfortable, vibes of the novel.