Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell

Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke
Susanna Clarke
Star Rating
★★★★★
Reviewer's Rating
Feb 19, 2025

In 19th century England, people presume magic to be long dead. But they’d be wrong, two magicians of vastly different personalities continue their work today. As the country heads into the Napoleonic wars, they might just need the help of these two bizarre men. Meanwhile, the fairies grow bored, and wander into the human world looking for fun, often causing hijinks and chaos. 

Picking up this book, I wasn’t sure what to think, and it sat on my shelf collecting dust until one day I elected to give it a chance. Quite frankly, I adored this book. I found it hilarious and wacky in every conceivable way. What truly made the book for me were the fairies, specifically the gentleman with the Thistle-down hair. I found every story regarding the fairies fascinating, and frankly enjoyed them more than the storyline of the two main characters. 

I never would have expected this book to be funny, but I truly can't find another way to describe it. It is funny in the kind of way that you’d never expect, not outwardly funny, no puns, but just written in such a way that makes one snort at their description of a candle. The fairies especially were hilarious, and I read the book mostly for their sake. To be fair, there were long stretches where I was disinterested, but I finished it nonetheless (mostly because of those hilarious fairies) and would most definitely recommend it to others! It would be perfect for a long plane or train ride or any place where there isn’t anything to do but sit and enjoy a fun story. five out of five stars, a hilarious read.

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