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Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell
1024 pages, 2005
The international bestseller is reissued with a striking new illustrated cover. Part of the Bloomsbury Phantastic series - three books tracing the tradition of fantasy from Edgar Allen Poe to Neil Gaiman to Susanna Clarke, who's novel is an epic tale of eighteenth-century England and the two young magicians who emerge to change its history.
In 1806, as England is at war with France, most people believe magic to have long since disappeared--until the reclusive Mr. Norrell reveals his powers and becomes a celebrity overnight. The young and daring Jonathan Strange, Norrell’s pupil, becomes interested in the wildest, most perilous forms of magic. As Strange’s interest deepens into obsession, he risks sacrificing all else to his passion for sorcery—including his partnership with Norrell, who is driven by his own desire for accomplishment.
In Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell, Susanna Clarke beautifully portrays the complex relationship between the two magicians. Their friendship, rivalry, and mutual respect for each other's talents is a key theme. It's a reminder of how important relationships are in shaping our lives.
Clarke's book is not just about magic in the literal sense, but also about the magic of belief. Both Strange and Norrell have different approaches to magic, reflecting their unique beliefs and attitudes. This encourages us to explore our own beliefs and how they shape our actions.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell is how it blends history and fantasy. Clarke takes us on a journey through a version of 19th-century England where magic is real. This blend of reality and fantasy invites us to look into our own history and imagine the possibilities.
In the book, Clarke shows us the dangers of imbalance. Mr Norrell's obsession with control and order, contrasted with Strange's passion for chaos and creativity, leads to conflict. This serves as a reminder to find balance in our own lives, between control and freedom, tradition and innovation.
Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell is a testament to the power of persistence. Despite numerous challenges and setbacks, both magicians continue to pursue their passion for magic. This inspires us to keep going, no matter what obstacles we face in our own pursuits.
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Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell is unquestionably the finest English novel of the fantastic written in the last seventy years.
Neil Gaiman - Author, Comic WriterJonathan Strange & Mr Norrell is an elegant and witty historical fantasy which deserves to be judged on its own (considerable) merit.
Stephen King - Horror Fiction AuthorJonathan Strange & Mr Norrell is a completely original and compelling work.
John Hodgman - Author, Humorist