Has anyone read Johnathan Strange and Mr. Norell ???

Question

i started reading it a few days ago and i just got to the part where mr norell is attending the party he was invited to when he moves to london. the book hasnt GRABED me like lots of other books do but i do like the story so far. I just wanna know from someone whos read it, if it gets alot better like it is hyped up to be. Thanks!

Answer 1

I really enjoyed it, but it does drag a bit in the middle. Of course, I'm a big fan of Jane Austen, and it is very Austen-like in setting and pacing.

If you haven't met the fey yet, keep going. I can't remember when they show up... If you still aren't into it after about another 100 pages or so, it might not be for you.

Answer 2

I read the book with high expectations, after all the praise it has received, but I was rather disappointed. I found the descriptions of magic very dry and dull, because they seemed to be just that: descriptions. There is not a lot of real action. It could have been so much better. The author had a very interesting concept, which could have been epic, but in my opinion, it fell quite short of that.

On the other hand, my sister read it and really enjoyed it. So I suggest finishing it if you really want to, and then at least you'll be able to know your own mind about it.

Answer 3

It was one of the most unusual books I ever read, and I give it a lot of credit for originality.

The pace never really picks up, but that is ok, because it suits the mood, time, and characters in the story. If you are looking for a page turner like Grisham, Patterson, Cussler, this ain't it. If you are looking for an original, thought-provoking, unusual book, stick it out.

Answer 4

It does start off quite dry as it is supposed to be set during the Napoleonic period but once you get used to that it becomes much, much easier and more enjoyable. you must stick at it as it is brilliant.