Take a photo of a barcode or cover
calarco 's review for:
Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell
by Susanna Clarke
If you are looking for a historical fantasy narrative that takes place in 19th century England amidst the Napoleonic wars and follows the exploits of two magicians with opposite personalities, then [b:Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell|14201|Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell|Susanna Clarke|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1357027589l/14201._SY75_.jpg|3921305] is a pretty solid choice.
Admittedly, given the focus on the strait-laced Mr. Norrell and whimsical Jonathan Strange, I was anticipating a novel in the vein of [b:Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch|12067|Good Omens The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch|Terry Pratchett|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1392528568l/12067._SY75_.jpg|4110990]. That said, aside from some thematic similarities, the two stories could not be more different. For one, Susanna Clarke’s tale unfolds more gradually over time and her fairytale elements have a much darker twist. This is best illustrated by the gentleman with the thistle-down hair, a unique (and for the period, accurate) rendition of a fairy.
Perhaps my favorite part of the novel, is how accurate the academic rivalry between Norrell and Strange is portrayed. Whether it be the lengths Norrell goes to to keep Strange away from key scholarly books on magic, or the scathingly dissenting book Strange writes in rebellion to Norrell’s prized publication, the ridiculous melodrama was on point. I completed my master’s degree in England, and I can honestly say that these antics are neither entirely farfetched nor outside the realm of possibility. (On this topic, think twice before you recall someone’s library book around the end of term; proceed with the utmost caution.)
As for what did not work, my main complaints revolve around the slow pacing and the underdevelopment of supporting characters. While this fantasy world is fully realized, it felt like an empty one at times given these circumstances, like there was more atmosphere than plot. My criticisms aside, I’ve been told I did not love this book because I am “not enough of an anglophile,” so you can also take that into consideration.
All in all, while I consider this book more of a good read than a great read, it is still an interesting take on historical fantasy fiction.
Admittedly, given the focus on the strait-laced Mr. Norrell and whimsical Jonathan Strange, I was anticipating a novel in the vein of [b:Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch|12067|Good Omens The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch|Terry Pratchett|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1392528568l/12067._SY75_.jpg|4110990]. That said, aside from some thematic similarities, the two stories could not be more different. For one, Susanna Clarke’s tale unfolds more gradually over time and her fairytale elements have a much darker twist. This is best illustrated by the gentleman with the thistle-down hair, a unique (and for the period, accurate) rendition of a fairy.
Perhaps my favorite part of the novel, is how accurate the academic rivalry between Norrell and Strange is portrayed. Whether it be the lengths Norrell goes to to keep Strange away from key scholarly books on magic, or the scathingly dissenting book Strange writes in rebellion to Norrell’s prized publication, the ridiculous melodrama was on point. I completed my master’s degree in England, and I can honestly say that these antics are neither entirely farfetched nor outside the realm of possibility. (On this topic, think twice before you recall someone’s library book around the end of term; proceed with the utmost caution.)
As for what did not work, my main complaints revolve around the slow pacing and the underdevelopment of supporting characters. While this fantasy world is fully realized, it felt like an empty one at times given these circumstances, like there was more atmosphere than plot. My criticisms aside, I’ve been told I did not love this book because I am “not enough of an anglophile,” so you can also take that into consideration.
All in all, while I consider this book more of a good read than a great read, it is still an interesting take on historical fantasy fiction.