The 131 2 Lives of Captain Bluebear by Walter Moers is a whimsical and imaginative tale following the adventures of the eponymous Bluebear through a fantastical land called Zamonia. The book is filled with absurd and hilarious scenarios, from encounters with mini pirates to classes with a professor with multiple brains, all illustrated in a unique and creative style. The plot is described as ageless, full of pure storytelling and unfettered imagination, reminiscent of classic tales like Baron Munchausen but with a modern twist.

The writing style of Walter Moers in this book is praised for its extravagant imagination and ability to create a vivid and imaginative universe that captivates readers. The book is noted for its use of progressively larger text to emphasize moments of action, enhancing the reading experience. Despite being a long and detailed book, readers find it easy to get lost in the story and appreciate the quirky and humorous tone throughout the narrative.

Characters:

The characters, including the adventurous Captain Bluebear and whimsical creatures, contribute to the absurd and comedic nature of the story.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style blends whimsical and inventive prose with absurd humor, resembling the styles of Douglas Adams and Shel Silverstein, complemented by illustrations.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot follows Captain Bluebear through 13½ of his lives filled with whimsical adventures in a bizarre fantasy world, noted for its lack of linear narrative and strong storyline.

Setting:

The setting is the imaginative continent of Zamonia, filled with whimsical landscapes and fantastical creatures that enhance the story's absurdity.

Pacing:

The pacing varies throughout the novel; while engaging initially, it can slow significantly, especially in the middle sections, leading to a reader's fatigue.

The Minipirates were the masters of the Zamonian Sea. Nobody knew this, however, because they were too small to be noticed. No wave was too high, no storm too tempestuous and no whirlpool too powerful...

Notes:

The book is part of the Zamonia series by Walter Moers.

Captain Bluebear has a total of 27 lives, and the book recounts the first 13½.

It features a wide range of imaginative creatures and fantastical settings in a world called Zamonia.

The writing style is often compared to Douglas Adams and J.K. Rowling, infused with whimsical humor.

The book contains illustrations by Moers himself, enhancing the reading experience.

Many readers find it an easy but lengthy read, often taking breaks due to its length.

It combines multiple genres, including fantasy, science fiction, philosophy, and autobiography.

Some readers noted that the book's pacing slows down significantly during certain chapters, particularly the Atlantis chapter.

It includes excerpts from Professor Nightingale's Encyclopedia, adding depth to the narrative.

The book has been praised for its imaginative world-building and creativity.

From The Publisher:

Now in English, the German bestseller that combines the fantasy of Lord of the Rings with the humour of Baron Munchausen.

Captain Bluebear is a bear with blue fur - a creature as unique as the fantastic adventures he undergoes. Here he

tells the amazing story of his first 13 1/2 lives in a world far removed from our own.

Ratings (7)

Incredible (2)
Loved It (5)

Reader Stats (12):

Read It (6)
Want To Read (4)
Not Interested (2)

What can you read after
The 13½ Lives of Captain Bluebear?

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About the Author:

Walter Moers is a writer, cartoonist, painter and sculptor who lives in Hamburg.

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The 13½ Lives of Captain Bluebear

Walter Moers

Book 1 in the series:Zamonia