At the age of seventeen, Tristran Thorn makes a very silly promise to a very silly girl – he promises to enter Faerie in order to retrieve a fallen star for her. And so, Tristran sets off on a journey that few would dare go on.
Tristran, however, is not the only person looking for the fallen star. Three brothers are in search as well – the one who finds the star will become the next Lord of Stormhold. There is also an evil witch who plans on using the star’s heart in order to regain her youth.
This is the second of Gaiman’s books that I’ve read, and so far the more I read of his stuff, the more I can understand why everyone loves his books so much. While this was a very quick read, it was a wonderful story to immerse myself in for a little while. It had everything a good fairy tale has – atmosphere, magic, and (of course) a love story.
I can catch small glimpses of other stories in this one – perhaps where Gaiman was influenced by other authors. The first person Tristran met in Faerie, for example, was so must like Puddleglum in mannerisms that it felt like I was just getting reacquainted with an old friend.
I had read this so I would know the story before I went to see the movie – now I’m unsure whether I want to see the move in the near future. I want time to sit and think on the Stardust universe before seeing a movie interpretation of it. I think I’ll have to wait until DVD for this one.
Two of my friends who love the book saw the movie last month (they get a lot of advance screenings in their town) and they both loved the movie.
Lisa
August 7th, 2007 at 11:40 am
My impression of Gaiman through his work is that he must just not see the world in the same way ‘normal’ people do. And, I’m so grateful that’s the case, because if it wasn’t, we wouldn’t have his wonderful works!
Heather
August 7th, 2007 at 11:47 am
Lisa – Oh that’s good to hear. I’m happy to hear that it’s good then. :)
Heather – I think that’s the same for most of the best fantasy authors. :) And it’s a great way to describe it.
Court
August 7th, 2007 at 6:01 pm
I’m glad to hear you liked it so much. I was apprehensive about the movie, but so far everyone’s been saying wonders about it – and this includes people who love the book.
Nymeth
August 7th, 2007 at 6:12 pm
Nymeth – Well, if everyone who loves the book seems to like the movie thus far, then I’m very happy to hear that. I’m extremely … puristic when it comes to movie adaptations for the most, but you’ve put my fears to rest a little bit. :)
Court
August 7th, 2007 at 7:50 pm
I liked the book, too. It’s been a few months since I read it so I think I’ve forgotten enough that I can see the movie one of these days.
booklogged
August 12th, 2007 at 12:37 am