Susanna Clarke: My Hero 4EVAR
I love Susanna Clarke. Her novel, Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, ranks among my favorite books of all time, and is the subject of the second blog entry I ever wrote. Now Ms. Clarke returns to delight us with The Ladies of Grace Adieu and Other Stories, a collection of short stories that take place in the same world as Strange & Norrell, but which have the fortune or misfortune of being quite a bit briefer. If you’ve read the novel, you’ll love these stories; if you haven’t read it, perhaps because you are intimidated by its monumental heft and astounding density, this short-story collection should whet your appetite. Go to, and remember that perseverance is a virtue.
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February 18th, 2007 at 7:19 pm
I ended up being quite satisfied with Jonathan Strange, if annoyed at its heft, and so I will gladly give Grace Adieu a try.
February 18th, 2007 at 8:43 pm
One thing I forgot to mention about Grace Adieu is that it includes nineteen illustrations by Charles Vess. Whether this is a plus or a minus will depend on your assessment of Mr. Vess’ talents.
February 19th, 2007 at 8:45 am
Did he illustrate Jonathan Strange? Because if he did, then I’m more than happy to enjoy the pictures.
February 19th, 2007 at 8:49 am
No, Portia Rosenberg drew the pictures for the novel. Charles Vess illustrated Stardust, among many other projects. I am not a fan of his, unfortunately.