Duncton Wood

by William Horwood
Duncton Wood cover
Good Books rating 3.81
Fantasy
Technical
  • ID: 4616
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-22
  • ISBN: 9781911420521
  • Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Ltd
  • Published: 2017-01-30
  • Reviews: 4

Duncton Wood introduces readers to a hidden world beneath the earth, where moles live under the oppressive rule of Mandrake. Bracken, a courageous young mole, discovers the ancient Stone, a symbol of a forgotten spiritual past, which gives him the strength to challenge Mandrake's darkness. As Bracken falls in love with Rebecca, Mandrake's daughter, their journey becomes a quest for freedom and truth, testing their resolve and beliefs. The story is a profound exploration of nature, love, and the triumph of the human spirit, reminiscent of classic tales like Watership Down. Praise for Duncton Wood has been overwhelming, with critics hailing it as a breathtaking achievement and a consistently absorbing tale. The novel's lyrical prose and enchanting narrative make it a must-read for fans of epic fantasy and adventure.

Reviews
Hardcover · witzelsucht · 2024-03-31
balanced 3.00

The book is noted for its vivid and memorable narrative, though it is criticized for being overly long. The reviewer appreciates the unique perspective but feels it could have been more concise.

This review offers a balanced perspective on Duncton Wood, highlighting its vivid and memorable narrative while also pointing out its flaws. The reviewer appreciates the unique perspective and the detailed portrayal of the moles' society, but they feel the book could have been more concise. They note that the story outstays its welcome by a couple of hundred pages, which detracts from the overall experience. Despite this, they find the book to be a memorable entry in its niche.

Quick quotes

    Overall, it's not a perfect book, outstaying its welcome by a couple of hundred pages.

    It's a vivid and memorable entry in the small niche of animal fantasy.

    The detailed portrayal of the moles' society adds a layer of depth to the story.

Tinted Edges · 2021-06-11
enchanting 4.00

The book is described as a captivating and immersive read that beautifully captures the essence of nature and the animal kingdom. The reviewer appreciates the detailed and empathetic portrayal of the characters and their world.

The reviewer at Tinted Edges finds Duncton Wood to be a captivating and immersive read, particularly praising the detailed and empathetic portrayal of the animal characters and their world. The book's ability to blend the savage and loving aspects of the animal kingdom is highlighted as a standout feature. The reviewer also appreciates the rich descriptions and the intricate details that bring the story to life. Overall, it's a book that stays with you long after you've turned the last page.

Quick quotes

    The cover is extremely autumnal and very in season, and I thought it was high time I gave this genre another go.

    The nature descriptions are amazing; the lives, society and religious beliefs of the moles are depicted with empathy and intricate details.

    It is a 'hero's journey' story, where Bracken, accompanied by his companion Boswell, goes first on a pilgrimage from his home of Duncton Wood to ...

Fantasy Book Review · 2021-01-01
breathtaking 4.75

The book is praised for its breathtaking and enchanting narrative that delves into the complex and emotional lives of animals. The reviewer finds the story both savage and full of love, making it a memorable read.

Fantasy Book Review describes Duncton Wood as a breathtaking and enchanting read that masterfully explores the savage yet loving nature of the animal kingdom. The reviewer is particularly impressed by the depth of the characters and the intricate details of their society and beliefs. The book's ability to evoke a range of emotions, from awe to empathy, is highlighted as a key strength. The reviewer also appreciates the spiritual depth and thought-provoking elements that add layers to the story.

Quick quotes

    Duncton Wood is a truly breathtaking and enchanting read that reminds us how savage yet full of love the animal kingdom truly is.

    The writing style receives positive feedback for its vivid and memorable portrayal of the characters and their world.

    The book is praised for its spiritual depth and thought-provoking elements.

Eclectic Assemblage · 2020-11-08
vivid 3.50

The book is noted for its vivid and memorable narrative, though it is felt to be somewhat lengthy. The reviewer appreciates the hero's journey and the richly detailed world of the moles.

Eclectic Assemblage finds Duncton Wood to be a vivid and memorable entry in the small niche of animal fantasy literature. The reviewer particularly enjoys the hero's journey of Bracken and his companion Boswell, as well as the richly detailed world of the moles. However, the reviewer notes that the book could have been tightened up by a couple of hundred pages, as it occasionally feels drawn out. Despite this, the book's intricate details and empathetic portrayal of the characters make it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    Overall, it's not a perfect book, outstaying its welcome by a couple of hundred pages, but it's a vivid and memorable entry in the small niche.

    The nature descriptions are amazing; the lives, society and religious beliefs of the moles are depicted with empathy and intricate details.

    It is a 'hero's journey' story, where Bracken, accompanied by his companion Boswell, goes first on a pilgrimage from his home of Duncton Wood to ...

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