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A review by xeyra1
The Golem's Eye by Jonathan Stroud
4.0
My expectations for this second book in the Bartimaeus trilogy were high and it didn't disappoint. Granted, Nathaniel continues to be a rather annoying character, with very few redeeming qualities that I've seen so far, especially in this adventure where he is just an ambitious young man who needs to have his head wacked to learn some sense. As a hero, he lacks some necessary qualities.
But Bartimaeus continues his witty wiseass self, which makes for a truly entertaining read everytime you get his perspective on things. Moreover, in this volume you get a new perspective, that of Kitty, a member of a Resistance against the magicians that dominate England. And, let me tell you, if you weren't so fond of magicians in the first volume, you will totally despise them in Golem's Eye. Try to imagine the Wizarding World of Harry Potter being inhabited solely by wizards like the Malfoys... and you get a little idea of how the Magician London is like in Stroud's world. It was really painful seeing how the "commoners" were treated as second-class citizens, being forced to accept a corrupt law-enforcement and rule by the Magicians. Reminded me a bit of Germany during Hitler's rule... and that's a scary comparison to make.
But despite all that, this book is a great romp and a wonderful read. Stroud creates a very complex world with engaging characters and wonderful twists, and you will end up emotionally invested into the story, even if only because you want to slap Nathaniel silly. Politics and adventure mix in this second book in the trilogy and makes me itch to get the third so I can know what happens next!
But Bartimaeus continues his witty wiseass self, which makes for a truly entertaining read everytime you get his perspective on things. Moreover, in this volume you get a new perspective, that of Kitty, a member of a Resistance against the magicians that dominate England. And, let me tell you, if you weren't so fond of magicians in the first volume, you will totally despise them in Golem's Eye. Try to imagine the Wizarding World of Harry Potter being inhabited solely by wizards like the Malfoys... and you get a little idea of how the Magician London is like in Stroud's world. It was really painful seeing how the "commoners" were treated as second-class citizens, being forced to accept a corrupt law-enforcement and rule by the Magicians. Reminded me a bit of Germany during Hitler's rule... and that's a scary comparison to make.
But despite all that, this book is a great romp and a wonderful read. Stroud creates a very complex world with engaging characters and wonderful twists, and you will end up emotionally invested into the story, even if only because you want to slap Nathaniel silly. Politics and adventure mix in this second book in the trilogy and makes me itch to get the third so I can know what happens next!