Clockwork: or All Wound Up

Philip Pullman

41 pages 1-hour read

Philip Pullman

Clockwork: or All Wound Up

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1996

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Book Brief

Philip Pullman

Clockwork

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1996
Book Details
Pages

144

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Horror & Suspense

Science Fiction
Setting

Germany • 18th century

Theme
Death

Fate

Science & Technology
Publication Year

1996

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

In Clockwork by Philip Pullman, a tormented clockmaker's apprentice, a storyteller, and other residents of a small town encounter a series of interconnected events. The tale explores themes of fate and choice through a blend of fantasy and realism, unfolding over a winter evening in a German town.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Fantastical

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Clockwork by Philip Pullman intricately weaves a dark, enchanting tale that captivates readers with its fairy-tale atmosphere and clever plot construction. Praise often centers on its imaginative storytelling and engaging narrative style. Some critiques note that its brevity may limit character development, but overall, it delivers a satisfying, thought-provoking experience.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Clockwork?

A reader who enjoys Clockwork by Philip Pullman likely appreciates dark fairy tales and intricate storytelling. Fans of Neil Gaiman's Coraline or Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events may also find this tale captivating, as it combines suspense, mystery, and a touch of the macabre.

Character List

A young barmaid at the White Horse Tavern, known for her compassion and courage, who plays a central role in addressing the unfolding danger.

An apprentice clockmaker who struggles with fear and ambition, leading him to make critical decisions that shape his storyline.

A mysterious inventor whose creations and philosophies drive much of the novel’s conflict, emphasizing mechanical precision.

A young novelist whose unfinished story intertwines with reality, creating challenges that disrupt the town.

A driven character whose past decisions set the plot in motion, focused intensely on his family legacy.

Initially introduced as an automaton, he becomes the focal point of various characters' actions throughout the story.

A clockwork knight, created by Kalmenius, whose presence is linked to danger and destruction.

The town clockmaker, who exemplifies traditional craftsmanship and offers guidance to his apprentice Karl.

A character who exemplifies selfless sacrifice, setting a moral benchmark in the narrative.

Book Details
Pages

144

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Horror & Suspense

Science Fiction
Setting

Germany • 18th century

Theme
Death

Fate

Science & Technology
Publication Year

1996

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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