Jonathan's review
Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell
by Susanna Clarke
Jonathan's review
Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke
Jonathan's review
rating:
recommended for: justin, seth, fans of Neil Gaiman, fantasy lovers,
Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell is a gem of a book, written in the style of Victorian fiction but with modern sensibilities and literary references. Ostensibly the story of Mr. Norrell, the first practicing magician to emerge in centuries, and his apprentice/rival, the magical prodigy Jonathan Strange. Their story spans the book from their first meeting to their friendship, rivarly and beyond. Napoleonic Warfare and English politics are both equally explored.
However, the real gem of the book is its extensive footnotes. Scattered liberally throughout the book, these notes make references to the magical history of England, as well as foreshadowing and commenting upon the events of the story. Some of the footnotes refer to the future of the characters long after the story ends, and others make references to the various disputes among historians on the accuracy of the story of Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell.
The book moves slowly, spending a large amount of time creating...more
However, the real gem of the book is its extensive footnotes. Scattered liberally throughout the book, these notes make references to the magical history of England, as well as foreshadowing and commenting upon the events of the story. Some of the footnotes refer to the future of the characters long after the story ends, and others make references to the various disputes among historians on the accuracy of the story of Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell.
The book moves slowly, spending a large amount of time creating...more
