Quotes from book
The Amulet of Samarkand

The Amulet of Samarkand
Jonathan Stroud

The Amulet of Samarkand is a children's novel of alternate history, fantasy and magic. It is the first book in the Bartimaeus trilogy written by English author Jonathan Stroud. First edition was published in Sept. 2003 by Doubleday in the United Kingdom. The book and series are about power struggles in a magical dystopia centred in London, England featuring a mix of current and ancient, secular and mythological themes. It is well known for its liberal use of footnotes to voice the lead character's sarcastic comments, as well as story background. The book is named for a magical artifact created in the ancient Asian city of Samarkand, around which the story revolves.

Jonathan Stroud photo

“No magical alarm sounded, though I did hit my head five times on a pebble†.
†Once each on five different pebbles. Not the same pebble five times. Just want to make that clear. Sometimes you human beings are so dense.”

Jonathan Stroud book The Amulet of Samarkand

The Amulet of Samarkand (2003)

Jonathan Stroud photo

“"Take that stupid grin off your face," he said. "You're putting me off."
"Sorry." I adopted a hideous expression of malady and woe.
"That's not much better."”

Jonathan Stroud book The Amulet of Samarkand

The Amulet of Samarkand (2003)

Jonathan Stroud photo

“"H-he is a messenger for you. H-h-he brings a message."
"You stagger me, Simpkin! A messenger with a message! Extraordinary."”

Jonathan Stroud book The Amulet of Samarkand

The Amulet of Samarkand (2003)

Jonathan Stroud photo

“When I landed on the top of a lamppost in the London dusk it was peeing with rain.”

Jonathan Stroud book The Amulet of Samarkand

The Amulet of Samarkand (2003)

Jonathan Stroud photo

“"Remember this." he said in a soft voice. "Demons are very wicked. They will hurt you if they can. Do you understand this?"”

Jonathan Stroud book The Amulet of Samarkand

The Amulet of Samarkand (2003)

Jonathan Stroud photo

“In the middle of the lawn was a lake adorned with an ornamental fountain, depicting an amorous Greek god trying to kiss a dolphin.†
† Inadvisable”

Jonathan Stroud book The Amulet of Samarkand

The Amulet of Samarkand (2003)

Jonathan Stroud photo

“H-he is a messenger for you. H-h-he brings a message.”

Jonathan Stroud book The Amulet of Samarkand

"You stagger me, Simpkin! A messenger with a message! Extraordinary."
The Amulet of Samarkand (2003)