Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell; Bloomsbury, 2017

I must confess it's one of the best books in English I have. The cover made of cardboard with a raised surface. The pages have a pleasant tone and made of a qualitative paper. Oh, and I love the way this book smells! Despite the fact, months have passed since I got the book, it still has the same "old library" smell which perfectly corresponds to the novel's atmosphere. One of the main characters possesses the biggest library of unique magic books in England. It's well-known that magic no longer practised. Some of Englishmen found historical 'English magic' societies which meant to learn the history but not perform magic itself. But our adorable and weird Mr Norrell is about to change the lie of the land. Considering the continuing collision between England and France, he fulfils his impulse to help his government and reveals the hobby he has. But it appears he never was the only practising magician. There is one young man who performs magic. And they are destined to meet each other. Mr Norrell doesn't feel friendly enough to share his library freely. He also feels quite disturbed by the fact of possible rivalry. Jonathan Strange, his 'pupil', feels the need of Norrell's knowledge and books, and he also feels irritated by Norrell's behaviour. Be watching these two is real entertainment. The novel is full of excellent jokes and adventures. Funny and mysterious at the same time this novel deserves to be named "Harry Potter for adults". And one more thing, the book has good drawings which enhance the atmosphere even more. Tbh this edition is not that easy to read (the book is quite heavy and I'm afraid of ripping off the pages ignoring the fact they are attached very well). But! I'm so glad I've bought the original edition! I've tried to read the novel in Russian. It appears two different stories I dare say (I mean atmosphere, characters and so on). This novel and edition itself worth every penny and all the effort. I recommend you to try it yourself. I can't even imagine the person who won't like this splendid book.