Thursday 7 May 2015


I'm not a fan of magic/fantasy so I didn't feel drawn to Susanna Clarke's whopping great novel, which seemed to demand more commitment than I was prepared to make to a whimsical story. But so far - I've only seen the first episode - I'm enjoying BBC's lavish adaptation of Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell. Mostly because it's set in York and I'm having fun spotting snickets and ginnels. It takes place in the early 19th century when magic has withered away to dry-as-dust theory ... but now some are urging a practical magic revival. I'm not sure I'll stay the course over seven hour-long episodes - but I loved the scene when, as proof of his powers, Mr Norrell makes the statues in York Minster's Kings of England Quire Screen start chatting to each other. Wish I'd been there!

6 comments:

mary said...

I never meant this to be a telly blog, Sue. I need to get out more!
But I have high hopes for 1864, which seems to have entire cast of Borgen. Scandi-history for a change.

Anonymous said...

I hadn't heard of this or 1864, perhaps I should read the Radio Times. Mind you I don't have a TV and have to watch on catch-up. I shall try these two out. Thank you Mary and Sue.

Lucille said...

I too look here first for cultural recommendations and am never disappointed.

mary said...

There's a Swedish one coming up called Jordskott, Sue, but I can take it or leave it, judging from first episode. It's a bit ITV. I;m sure you know what I mean!

I quite agree, Toffeeapple.Doesn't seem much point paying for the licence these days.

Thanks, Lucille - nice to be appreciated.

Cosy Books said...

Can't wait to watch some British telly when I'm over, Mary!

The itinerary has been languishing on the kitchen table but I'm determined to wrap it up this weekend. Talk soon!

mary said...

Good thing you timed it for after the election coverage, Darlene!