Abarat by Clive Barker

Candy Quackenbush lives in Chickentown USA, a place so dull it's known as the most boring place in the world. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she receives a clue about her future that leads her to the magical realm of Abarat. This fantastical world is filled with strange islands, peculiar creatures, and a tapestry of colors that defy imagination. /n/n As Candy navigates this new world, she discovers that her arrival is part of a larger prophecy. The Abarat is a place where time and space are fluid, and every island is governed by a different hour of the day. Candy's journey is one of self-discovery and adventure, as she uncovers the secrets of her destiny and the true nature of the Abarat.

Reviews

Reddit - r/Fantasy · 2021-03-01

brilliant 4.50

The character development is brilliant, and the descriptions of the places are sublime. The story blends fantasy and action seamlessly.

The reviewer praises the character development in Abarat, finding it brilliant and well-executed. The descriptions of the various places in the book are sublime, creating a rich and immersive world. The story itself is a great blend of fantasy and action, making it an exciting and engaging read. The reviewer appreciates the way the narrative combines different elements to create a cohesive and enjoyable experience. Overall, they highly recommend the book for its imaginative storytelling and compelling characters.

Quick quotes

The character development is brilliant, the descriptions of the places are sublime and the story is a blend of fantasy and action with real ...

The reviewer praises the character development in Abarat, finding it brilliant and well-executed.

The descriptions of the various places in the book are sublime, creating a rich and immersive world.

Madame Writer Blog · 2018-07-16

nostalgic 3.50

The book holds a special place in the reviewer's heart, but they acknowledge its flaws. The narrative is engaging, but the analysis reveals several issues.

The reviewer has fond memories of this book and considers it one of their favorites. They appreciate the imaginative world-building and the engaging narrative. However, they also acknowledge that the book has several problems from an analytical perspective. The reviewer finds the story compelling and enjoyable, but they are aware of its shortcomings, which might not be immediately apparent to casual readers. Overall, it's a book that resonates deeply with them despite its flaws.

Quick quotes

Despite me having great memories of this book, I would be the first to concede how many problems the book has from an analysis perspective.

Abarat holds a very special place in my heart, it is one of my fifteen favorite books.

The narrative is engaging, but the analysis reveals several issues.

Culture Addict/History Nerd · 2015-02-08

delightful 4.00

The book is a surprising departure from Clive Barker's usual horror works. It is a delightful and imaginative adventure.

The reviewer finds Abarat to be a surprising departure from Clive Barker's usual horror works, making it a refreshing and delightful read. The book is filled with imaginative and inventive elements that create a unique and engaging world. The reviewer appreciates the way the story blends different genres and themes, making it a standout in Barker's bibliography. They highlight the book's ability to captivate readers with its imaginative storytelling and compelling characters. Overall, they recommend it to fans of fantasy and adventure.

Quick quotes

If you're like me and are more familiar with Clive Barker's works of horror, then this novel will come as a surprising departure.

The book is filled with imaginative and inventive elements that create a unique and engaging world.

The reviewer appreciates the way the story blends different genres and themes, making it a standout in Barker's bibliography.

Appears in Lists

Clive Barker Books That Will Haunt You