Stardust

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www.neilgaiman.com

Stardust
Neil Gaiman
1998

The Summary
Tristran Thorn has entered the world of Faerie with a mission on his mind:  he is going to retrieve a fallen star for Victoria Forester to prove his love and, more importantly, win her hand in marriage.

However, Tristran Thorn has a problem in retrieving the star:  she is very much alive - and she does not like Tristran one bit.

Thus, taking with him an embittered and sarcastic star, Tristran journeys through the land of Faerie, fighting to keep himself and the star alive so he might return safely to his hometown of Wall.

The Good
Stardust is a wonderful novel with elaborate details and beautiful descriptions, and a witty sense of humor that's sure to please.  The fantastical world of Faerie (including the Faerie Market) created by Neil Gaiman is a true treat to imagine, and the adventures of Tristran Thorn and Yvaine are enthralling.

It's a simple task to become invested in their story, to get caught up in all the adventures and mishaps and dangers of the wild, wonderful world of Faerie.  The magic involved, the pure inventiveness and fantasy of Stardust, makes it easy to become attached to not only the characters but the entire world.

I especially loved the complexity of the story.  In Stardust, you'll find a variety of tales and characters - the lords of Stormhold, the witches of the Lilim, the star and Tristran - that intersect throughout Gaiman's novel.  Sometimes, it's difficult to discern where they meet and why; however, it's thrilling when all the pieces finally come together and the story unfolds.

The Bad
It's a bit of an odd story; that is, it reads in a completely different way than what I've ever read.  But Stardust is exceedingly enjoyable to read, and I can't say I have any complaints.

The Ugly
Gore.

Something about witches and stoat entrails and the like that's slightly sickening to read - and, how can I forget, there's some fratricide going on? - but, otherwise, it's a fairly mild novel.