IN 2006, when del Toro came out with his dark Spanish fantasy, Pan’s Labyrinth, which he wrote and directed, it blew audiences’ minds with its riveting story, superb visual effects and fantastic creatures (played by Doug Jones).
Now 13 years later, Del Toro and bestselling author Funke have come together to transform Pan’s Labyrinth into a dark fantasy novel.
The illustrations in the book by Allen Williams just add to your imagination as you flip through each chapter.
That being said, this is no bright and sunny tale with happy fairies and fauns. It is dark and powerful and set during a very dark time in Spain’s history in 1944 (five years after the Spanish Civil War).
The main protagonist, Ofelia, is trying to cope with her pregnant mother who has become deathly ill, and her nasty stepfather who is hunting down rebels.
She then comes across a mysterious creature who helps her navigate the labyrinth in her family’s garden.
If you have enjoyed the movie or like dark fantasy novels, you might want to get this book. However do not assume this is suitable for young readers, because it is not.
The story is similar to the movie but with some slight additions. The painful elements are still there.
