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A review by grac_e55
Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke
4.0
Overall Rating 4.25 Stars
POSITIVES:
I've seen many people complaining about the length of this book and I have to admit that this was not a problem for me as it engaged me from the beginning. The payoff of Clarke's decade long effort is evident throughout this giant novel that explores an alternative history of Britain with magic. The characters are all flawed in their own ways, especially Strange and Norrell, who represent the snobbery and elitism of aristocratic men in this time period. However this is highlighted using a sarcastic, witty tone so is still enjoyable to read.
NEGATIVES:
One aspect of the book I did not like was the racist and antisimetic language used in the novel. Espcially the character of Stephen Black, who is a POC, is described using period typical racist comments in his introduction. The use of these racist comments is minimal however it is still present in the book leading to some uncomfortable moments when reading. I understand that it would be odd for racism to not be adressed when writing in this time period however I am not sure that is has been handled in a sensitive manner.
Overall, I would recommend this book to those who are fans of Clarke's another novel Piranesi and are looking for a long, historical fantasy read.
POSITIVES:
I've seen many people complaining about the length of this book and I have to admit that this was not a problem for me as it engaged me from the beginning. The payoff of Clarke's decade long effort is evident throughout this giant novel that explores an alternative history of Britain with magic. The characters are all flawed in their own ways, especially Strange and Norrell, who represent the snobbery and elitism of aristocratic men in this time period. However this is highlighted using a sarcastic, witty tone so is still enjoyable to read.
NEGATIVES:
One aspect of the book I did not like was the racist and antisimetic language used in the novel. Espcially the character of Stephen Black, who is a POC, is described using period typical racist comments in his introduction. The use of these racist comments is minimal however it is still present in the book leading to some uncomfortable moments when reading. I understand that it would be odd for racism to not be adressed when writing in this time period however I am not sure that is has been handled in a sensitive manner.
Overall, I would recommend this book to those who are fans of Clarke's another novel Piranesi and are looking for a long, historical fantasy read.