Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell, by Susanna Clarke

Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell is a tale set in 19th century England where magic has long since been forgotten. Mr. Norrell is an owlish hermit who lives in his labyrinthine manor in Northern England and studies magic. He goes to London to bring magic back to England. Jonathan Strange becomes Mr. Norrell’s pupil and then joins the war against Napoleon Bonaparte. The more Strange learns of magic, the more he disagrees with Mr. Norrell. Surely fairies and the Raven King are part of magic too?

 

If you are a fan of Terry Prachet’s books, Neil Gaiman’s books, The Princess Bride, or The Once and Future King, you would also love this book. From descriptions of ladies dancing till dawn each night in Faerie to witticisms on London society, this book had it all. Susanna Clarke grounded the magic in reality with the plot device of the Napoleonic wars. She excelled at world building with her footnotes. It is a worthy read for anyone who likes the combination of fairytale and society scenes.

Reviewed by D.J.L, Grade 10

Glendale Central Library Library