Genres: Fiction, Science Fiction
My past reading experience with Doctor Who books hasn’t been good (see Book Reviews Archive to read reviews of other Doctor Who Books). Though, Doctor Who and The Daleks is not one of them. I recently found a copy of this book, residing in the last row of my book shelf. I don’t remember when did I buy it but I feel happy that I have one.
Doctor Who and the Daleks by David Whitaker is the fist ever novelisation of a Doctor Who television story, first published in 1964, original script written by Terry Nation. I consider myself a Whovian and I my favourite Doctor is the tenth one.
This book is written in first person, narrated through out by Ian Chesterton who with Barbara Wright accompanies Doctor Who ad his granddaughter, Susan, to the planet Skaro, unknowingly, in a time machine and spacecraft called the TARDIS which stands for Time and Relative Dimension in Space. The first person narration is what that will attract a reader and worked for me as well. I am not that well-versed in early Doctors but I felt comfortable with the characters. I can say, all characters are well-written.
The character of Doctor Who is portrayed quite mysterious and completely unpredictable and most of the times, he is like that. He’s presented as even more devious as the events unfold from Ian’s point-of-view. Moreover, the book turns out to be well-paced novel due to the narration.
The edition I am having has an introduction by Neil Gaiman— a pleasant surprise for me, written in his own style, not spoiling anything for those who haven’t been exposed, and very nostalgic, an about the authors spotlight and original illustrations by Arnold Schwartzman.
I am looking forward to read more of the Doctor Who books this year. This one is a day read, and recommended to every Whovian.
4 out of 5!
good post. I haven’t read any of the Dr. Who books. Even tho I am a sci-fi lover, I never really got into this series. I will check it out now. thanks for the review.
You’re welcome. You should check this series.
Love The Doctor!
Ooh, it looks promising! I think everyone’s favourite Doctor is the tenth one (but I like all of them for their own unique traits). 😀
I haven’t seen the Doctors before ninth, and yes I love the Tenth one. 🙂
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The original Doctor was such a clever creation, at times petulant and conniving but also intelligent with a kind side. I love the dark feeling of the book. Classic Who indeed!
Glad you took your time to read the review. It’s always nice to meet a Whovian!
Right backatcha. The sheer amount of Who stories is impressive and there are some corkers through the first Seven doctors, at times the books added in more detail than the episodes could fit into the running time.
One cannot show everything in the actors’ actions but one can explore everything with his words. 🙂