Robert Rankin combines science fiction, fantasy, adventure
and
comedy in another of his
mind-
blowing stories. 'The
Witches of Chiswick' begins in the future, travels back
to
the past and ends in the present of today. On this
journey
the main character encounters witches, robots,
fictional
characters of the Victorian era and even himself from
an
alternate reality. This character is likeable and
engages
the sympathies of the
reader, yet remains
two-dimensional
enough for the reader to remain a little detached so as
to
still enjoy the tale should events take an unpleasant
turn
for our hero.
Rankin attempts to tackle (in a thoroughly light hearted
and even flippant manner) the concept of God and
ideas of
faith, whilst combining these ideas with time travel and
fairy tale elements, making for a complex and many handled
plot in which even the characters appear to become
confused! However, the plot is resolved at the end of the
tale and mysteries are explained;
the novel is a relatively easy read, yet action packed
and a real
page turner. The comedy is constant including several
running gags (even admitted by the author) and although
only occasionally laugh out loud funny, overall
encourages
a general sense of good feeling in the reader. Some of
the
concepts employed by Rankin may be seen as a
bit 'silly' or
going a step too far, such as the use of a talking
sprout
as a messenger for God; however, other readers find
this
very reason to hail Rankin as a genius and he has
gained a
large cult following.
A story certainly not for the serious reader, but
definately for a fun-loving reader who wants to try
something a bit different and is prepared for the
unbelievable and mind blowing.
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