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59 pages 1 hour read

The Magicians

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009

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Book Brief

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Lev Grossman

The Magicians

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

402

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York • Contemporary

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Magicians by Lev Grossman follows 17-year-old Quentin Coldwater, who is unhappy with his life in Brooklyn despite his solid home and academic success. After discovering a notebook titled "The Magicians," Quentin finds himself at Brakebills College, where he studies magic. Despite forming friendships and falling in love with Alice, the pressures of magical life and personal struggles lead Quentin from an initially fulfilling experience back to uncertainty and longing for purpose.

Mysterious

Dark

Adventurous

Melancholic

Fantastical

Reviews & Readership

3.8

282,394 ratings

55%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

18%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Magicians by Lev Grossman has been praised for its imaginative world and mature take on the fantasy genre, exploring complex themes of power and desire. Critics applaud its intricate character development and dark, realistic tone. However, some find its protagonist unlikable and the narrative slow-paced at times. Overall, it stands out for its originality and depth.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Magicians?

Fans of Lev Grossman's The Magicians are typically readers who enjoyed J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series but crave a darker, more adult take on magic and personal discovery. Comparisons to C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia and Neil Gaiman's American Gods highlight the novel’s blend of fantasy and existential themes.

3.8

282,394 ratings

55%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

18%

Not a fan

Character List

Quentin Coldwater

The protagonist who discovers a magical college called Brakebills, where he learns magic and meets new friends, experiencing both personal growth and challenges.

A talented and shy student at Brakebills, she becomes one of Quentin's close friends and is identified by her straight dark hair and reserved demeanor.

A charismatic and brilliant student at Brakebills, he becomes friends with Quentin and is known for his distinctive personal style and academic ease.

A mohawk-sporting loner at Brakebills, his real name is William, and he possesses the ability to teleport, which becomes significant in their adventures.

A confident and outspoken member of the Physical Kids, known for her leadership in their group activities and her dynamic presence.

A fellow student at Brakebills with a cheerful disposition, struggling with controlling his magic, yet often surprises others with his keen insights.

Quentin's childhood friend who initially fails the Brakebills Entrance Exam but remains deeply affected by the world of magic thereafter.

The main antagonist who represents a dark and threatening force in the magical world, with a mysterious and menacing presence.

The head of Brakebills who is characterized by his wisdom and dedication to the safety and education of his students.

A strict and demanding professor at Brakebills known for emphasizing the disciplined craft of magic in his teaching methods.

A teacher at Brakebills South, known for his past affair with a student, leading to significant repercussions.

A former student of Brakebills whose departure from the school follows a tragic incident involving magic and a personal relationship.

Book Details
Pages

402

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York • Contemporary

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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