The Great and Secret Show

by Clive Barker
The Great and Secret Show cover
Good Books rating 3.33
Fantasy
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Paperback • £12.99
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Technical
  • ID: 5530
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9780006179085
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 1990-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

The Great and Secret Show by Clive Barker takes readers on a breathtaking journey through one of the most ambitious imaginative landscapes in modern fiction. Set in the seemingly ordinary town of Palomo Grove, the story unfolds as two great armies, shaped from the hearts and souls of America, prepare for a monumental confrontation. Barker's work is celebrated for its richly detailed world-building and its exploration of the age-old battle between good and evil, all told with a unique and chilling vocabulary that sets it apart from traditional fantasy narratives. /n/n This New York Times bestseller carries its readers from the first stirrings of consciousness to a vision of the end of the world, showcasing Barker's mastery of storytelling and his ability to blend dark fantasy with cosmic horror. The novel is a testament to Barker's imaginative prowess, offering a gripping and unsettling exploration of the supernatural and the human psyche.

Reviews
Kendall Reviews · Kendall · 2019-06-11
divisive 3.50

This book has divided critics for many years, and it's easy to see why. It is both horror and epic fantasy and may displease fans of each.

Kendall highlights that this book has been a point of contention among critics for years, primarily because it straddles the genres of horror and epic fantasy. This dual nature can be both its strength and its weakness, appealing to some readers while potentially alienating others. They note that the book's ambitious scope and unique blend of genres make it a compelling read, but it might not satisfy those looking for a purely horror or fantasy experience. The review suggests that the book's ability to transcend traditional genre boundaries is what makes it stand out, even if it doesn't fully satisfy all readers' expectations.

Quick quotes

    This book has divided critics for many years, and it's easy to see why.

    It is both horror and epic fantasy and may displease fans of each.

    The book's ambitious scope and unique blend of genres make it a compelling read.

John the Librarian · John · 2015-08-11
positive 4.50

The writing holds up really well, standing the tests of time and experience, making it staggeringly imaginative, exciting, and moving.

John praises the writing in The Great and Secret Show, noting that it has stood the test of time and remains imaginative, exciting, and moving. They highlight the book's ability to captivate readers with its unique blend of fantasy and horror elements. The review suggests that the book's imaginative storytelling and well-crafted prose make it a standout work, even if it has been around for some time. They appreciate the book's ability to remain relevant and engaging, making it a worthwhile read for fans of the genre.

Quick quotes

    The writing holds up really well, standing the tests of time and experience.

    This novel is still staggeringly imaginative, exciting, and moving.

    The book's imaginative storytelling and well-crafted prose make it a standout work.

Kara Reviews · Kara Babcock · 2014-03-23
mixed 2.00

Clive Barker brings an imaginative and dark fantasy element to the story, but it may not resonate with all readers.

Kara Babcock acknowledges the imaginative and dark fantasy elements that Clive Barker brings to the story, noting that these aspects are what endear the book to many readers. However, they also point out that the book's unique style and content may not resonate with everyone. The review suggests that while the book has its merits, it might not be the best fit for those who prefer more traditional storytelling. They appreciate the creativity and originality of the work but acknowledge that it has its flaws and may not be universally loved.

Quick quotes

    Clive Barker brings an imaginative and dark fantasy element to the story.

    It may not resonate with all readers.

    The book has its merits, but it might not be the best fit for those who prefer more traditional storytelling.

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