Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke

5 out of 5 stars.

At the dawn of the nineteenth century, two very different magicians emerge to change England's history. Mr. Norrell is reclusive and guarded, Jonathan Strange is more open and drawn the to wilder forms of magic. Eventually their partnership becomes strained. Jonathan Strange becomes more daring in his magic and risks losing everything he holds dear. 

This book follows the lives of two magicians, Mr. Norrell and his student, Jonathan Strange. At an eye popping 1006 pages (paperback), this book pretty much gives every last detail of their journey both together and separately. Included in the story is a long list of characters that add to it and make it one of the best books I have read in a long time. Sounds good right? Of course! But here’s the thing; would I recommend this book? Well, that depends. Since it reads more like an historical fiction with footnotes included (yes, there are footnotes…..lots of them), I cannot say I would recommend it to just anyone. So I’ll put it this way…..If you are looking for a quick read (see 1006 pages above) with some magic included, a few laughs, and think this would be just like reading Harry Potter (which I love btw), this is not the novel for you. If you like books that take its time telling its story, plays on all your emotions, has that dry British humor that not all people get, and has a Dickens like feel to them, then you might want to give this one a shot. I’m glad I did.

Available on Amazon at the link below:
Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell