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Cover of Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell

Fantasy · Historical

Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell

by Susanna Clarke

4.0 out of 5, from 1,044 ratings from Hardcover readers

In Regency England, magic has long been dead until two very different magicians bring it back: a dry, secretive scholar and a charming, impulsive rival. Their partnership and quarrel draw in the Napoleonic wars and a dangerous fairy presence.

Facts last checked 2026-10-16

First published
2004
Pace
Slow
Length
Long
Pages
1006
Format
Book 1 of 1 in Strange & Norrell
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Read this if you enjoy a long, funny, footnoted alternate history written in the voice of a Victorian novel.

Skip this if you want pace or modern language, as it is leisurely, dry and extremely long.

The feel

Content warnings

  • Death
  • Mental illness

Also reported by Hardcover readers:

  • War
  • Classism
  • Gun violence
  • Drug use
  • Forced institutionalization
  • Kidnapping
  • Murder
  • Confinement
  • Grief

Quick answers about Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell

What is Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell about?
In Regency England, magic has long been dead until two very different magicians bring it back: a dry, secretive scholar and a charming, impulsive rival. Their partnership and quarrel draw in the Napoleonic wars and a dangerous fairy presence.
Who should read Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell?
Read it if you enjoy a long, funny, footnoted alternate history written in the voice of a Victorian novel. Skip it if you want pace or modern language, as it is leisurely, dry and extremely long.
How long and how fast is Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell?
It is a slow-paced, long read of about 1006 pages, first published in 2004.
Does Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell have content warnings?
Content we flag: Death, Mental illness.
Can I borrow Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell for free?
Often, yes. Check Libby (OverDrive) to see whether your library lends Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell; the borrow button above searches it for you.
What should I read after Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell?
Readers who liked it often move on to Piranesi, Good Omens, Pride and Prejudice.

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