The Tough Guide to Fantasyland

by Diana Wynne Jones
The Tough Guide to Fantasyland cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Comedy/Humor
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Technical
  • ID: 8985
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2026-01-04
  • ISBN: 9781568659510
  • Published: 1996-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

The Tough Guide to Fantasyland is a witty and irreverent guidebook that parodies the conventions of fantasy literature. Written in a dictionary format, it offers satirical observations on the characters, settings, and narratives commonly found in the genre. The book is a must-read for fans of fantasy who enjoy a good laugh at the familiar tropes and clichés that populate their favorite stories. /n/n Author Diana Wynne Jones uses her extensive knowledge of the fantasy genre to create a comprehensive and entertaining guide. The book is not only a humorous take on fantasy literature but also a clever commentary on the genre's recurring themes and motifs. It's a perfect blend of satire and insight, making it a unique and enjoyable read for both fantasy enthusiasts and casual readers alike.

Reviews
Phuulish Fellow · 2020-04-08
humorous 4.00

The book is a clever and humorous guide to fantasy tropes, framed as a tourist guide to Fantasyland. It's a unique take on the genre that both entertains and critiques.

This review highlights how the book cleverly frames fantasy tropes as a guide for tourists in Fantasyland. The reviewer appreciates the humor and incisive commentary on the genre. They note that while it's a fun read, it might not be as engaging as a full-length novel by Diana Wynne Jones. The book's structure and wit make it a standout in the genre, offering a fresh perspective on familiar fantasy elements.

Quick quotes

    The book is an AZ of Fantasy Tropes, framed as a guide for tourists in Fantasyland – the generic setting where all fantasy stories ostensibly happen.

    It's a clever and humorous take on the genre.

    Fun and insightful, but not as engaging as a full-length novel.

Klein Letters · 2018-04-19
fun 3.00

The book is a fun and imaginative guide to fantasy tropes, but it lacks the depth of a full novel by the author.

The reviewer finds the book to be a fun and imaginative guide to fantasy tropes, but they feel it doesn't quite match the depth and engagement of a full-length novel by Diana Wynne Jones. They appreciate the creativity and humor in the book, but note that it might not be as satisfying for readers looking for a more substantial story. Overall, it's a mild recommendation for fans of the genre.

Quick quotes

    Fun stuff, but not as much fun as a real Diana Wynne Jones novel.

    Mildly recommended.

    It's a creative and humorous take on fantasy tropes.

Eyrie · 2005-09-25
clever 4.50

The book is a well-crafted parody encyclopedia of fantasy tropes, with each entry being short and succinct.

The reviewer praises the book for its well-crafted parody of fantasy tropes, noting that each entry is short and succinct, which keeps the humor fresh. They appreciate how the entries fit together to create a satisfying whole. The book is seen as a clever and entertaining guide to the genre, offering a unique perspective on familiar fantasy elements. The reviewer finds it to be a delightful read for fans of fantasy.

Quick quotes

    Each is short and succinct, not wearing out the joke.

    The whole guide fits together in a satisfying way.

    For a parody encyclopedia, Jones does a fantastic job.

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