The Lives of Christopher Chant

by Diana Wynne Jones
The Lives of Christopher Chant cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Fantasy, Young Adult
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Paperback • £7.99
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Technical
  • ID: 7835
  • Added: 2025-12-17
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780006755180
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2000-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

The Lives of Christopher Chant delves into the early years of the legendary Chrestomanci, revealing a world of magic, adventure, and self-discovery. Young Christopher Chant, unaware of his extraordinary fate, prefers the simple pleasures of cricket and exploring his dream worlds. However, his life takes a dramatic turn when he learns of his nine lives and his destined role as the next Chrestomanci. /n/n As Christopher navigates his newfound responsibilities, he encounters the menacing Wraith, a smuggler threatening the fabric of the worlds. This thrilling tale explores themes of destiny, identity, and the challenges of growing up with extraordinary abilities, all wrapped in Diana Wynne Jones' signature whimsical and engaging style.

Reviews
Fantasy Literature · 2025-12-18
fascinating 4.00

The book is praised for its intricate and quirky narrative that spans several years and blends multiple genres. It is seen as a unique and captivating read.

This review highlights the book's intricate and quirky narrative, which spans several years and draws on multiple genres. The reviewer appreciates the unique blend of fantasy and other elements, making it a captivating read. They also note the book's ability to keep the reader engaged with its imaginative and well-crafted story. The reviewer finds the protagonist's journey particularly compelling, making it a standout in Diana Wynne Jones' works.

Quick quotes

    A fascinating, intricate, quirky book that takes place over several years and draws on several genres.

    Only Diana Wynne Jones can go from English boarding schools to magical worlds and back again with such ease.

    The book's blend of fantasy and other elements makes it a unique and captivating read.

The Mystery of the Fairytale · 2025-03-04
delightful 4.25

The book is noted for its humor, simple fairytale-like message, and overall enjoyment throughout the reading experience.

The reviewer highlights the book's humor and simple, fairytale-like message, which makes it an enjoyable read from start to finish. They appreciate the book's ability to blend humor with a heartwarming story, making it a delightful experience for readers. The reviewer also notes the book's ability to keep the reader engaged with its charming and whimsical narrative. Overall, the book is seen as a delightful and enjoyable read, perfect for those looking for a lighthearted and heartwarming story.

Quick quotes

    It's extremely funny, it's has a simple and fairytale-like message, and it's enjoyable all the way through.

    The book's humor and whimsical narrative make it a delightful read.

    The book's charming and heartwarming story keeps the reader engaged throughout.

Eustacitan · 2023-09-13
heartwarming 4.25

The book manages to balance the childlike wonder of its protagonist with the complexities of the magical world he inhabits. It is a heartwarming and engaging read that highlights Diana Wynne Jones' storytelling prowess.

This book is a heartwarming tale that beautifully balances the innocence of childhood with the complexities of a magical world. The protagonist's journey is filled with wonder and discovery, making it a captivating read for both young and adult audiences. Diana Wynne Jones' ability to weave a compelling narrative with rich, imaginative details is evident throughout. The story is not just entertaining but also thought-provoking, exploring themes of identity and growth in a way that is both accessible and profound. It's a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming and engaging fantasy adventure.

Quick quotes

    What struck me the most about this book is how DWJ managed to balance the fact that Christopher's a child with the fact that children are the most interesting characters.

    The Lives of Christopher Chant is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

    It's a heartwarming tale that beautifully balances the innocence of childhood with the complexities of a magical world.

The Guardian · 2013-11-10
thrilling 4.50

The book is described as enthralling, thrilling, and action-packed, with a recommendation for readers over 8 years old.

The reviewer found the book to be enthralling and thrilling, packed with action and imagination. They particularly enjoyed the book's ability to keep young readers engaged with its exciting plot and imaginative world. The reviewer also appreciates the book's recommendation for readers over 8 years old, highlighting its suitability for young audiences. Overall, the book is seen as a fantastic read for children and a great introduction to the world of fantasy.

Quick quotes

    It was enthralling, thrilling, action-packed and imaginative.

    I really liked this book and would recommend it to over 8s.

    The book's exciting plot and imaginative world make it a fantastic read for children.

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