Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett is celebrated for its witty satire, clever writing, and unique blend of humor and fantasy. Critics praise the seamless collaboration and engaging characters. However, some find the pacing uneven and the humor occasionally forced. Overall, it is a beloved narrative with a dedicated fanbase.

A reader who enjoys Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett likely appreciates witty, satirical takes on fantasy and apocalypse themes. Fans of Douglas Adams' The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and Gaiman's American Gods will relish the humor, cleverness, and quirky narrative style.

Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett is a satirical imagining of the Biblical apocalypse featuring angels, demons, humans, and the hosts of Heaven and Hell. Aziraphale, an angel, and Crowley, a demon, inadvertently become guardians of the misplaced Antichrist, Adam Young, trying to stop Armageddon. Alongside varied characters, they navigate prophecies, morality, and friendship to prevent the end of the world.

Humorous / Fantastical / Playful / Suspenseful / Bittersweet

- Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett wrote Good Omens by collaborating through the exchange of floppy disks via mail and lengthy phone calls, as they lived in different parts of England. 
- A minor character in Good Omens, Agnes Nutter, is described as the only fully accurate prophet in history, reflecting Terry Pratchett's interest in the quirks of history and human nature. 
- The book humorously references various pop culture and literary works, drawing on Gaiman and Pratchett's love for different genres, including references to rock bands and TV shows like Doctor Who.

**Aziraphale**  
An angel who has lived among humans for six thousand years, known for his fastidious nature and ownership of a rarely open bookshop. He often interacts with his demonic counterpart, Crowley, whom he occasionally seeks guidance from.

**Crowley**  
A demon who was once the Serpent in Eden, enjoys Earth's pleasures, and is known for driving a vintage Bentley. He becomes an unlikely partner to Aziraphale as they navigate their unique friendship.

**Anathema Device**  
A descendant of a prophetess who studies her ancestor’s prophecies, often involved in environmental concerns and interested in interpreting arcane predictions. She has a romantic entanglement with Newton Pulsifer.

**Newton Pulsifer**  
A technically challenged individual who works as a clerk and is drawn into the witchfinder’s cause. He encounters Anathema Device and plays a crucial role in thwarting apocalyptic threats.

**Adam Young**  
A young boy living in Lower Tadfield, Oxfordshire, who is central to the unfolding events involving Heaven and Hell. He leads a group of friends named The Them, often engaging in local mischief and exploration.

**The Them**  
A group of Adam Young's friends, consisting of Pepper, Wensleydale, and Brian, who embody archetypal adolescent traits. They provide a loyal and supportive environment for Adam’s adventures.

**The Four Horsepersons of the Apocalypse**  
Modernized versions of the Biblical Horsemen, including characters like Famine, Pollution, War, and Death. They ride motorcycles and represent contemporary global issues through their personas.

**Shadwell**  
A dedicated witchfinder sergeant who lives frugally, supported by Aziraphale and Crowley. Despite his harsh demeanor, he is looked after by his charitable neighbor, Madame Tracy.

**Madame Tracy**  
A psychic and sex worker who is Shadwell’s neighbor, known for her gentle nature and business acumen. She plays a significant part in facilitating Shadwell's actions during pivotal moments.

**Agnes Nutter**  
A historical prophetess whose predictions are central to the narrative, known for their unparalleled accuracy. Her legacy influences many characters but is mostly a background presence in the story.

Neil Gaiman

Terry Pratchett

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

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content

Overview

Get ready to explore Good Omens and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Good Omens Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 1

Good Omens Prologue-Chapter 1 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 2-3

Good Omens Chapters 2-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

Good Omens Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Good Omens Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Good Omens Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Good Omens Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Good Omens Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Good Omens Essay Topics

Good Omens Teaching Unit

Introduction

Good Omens Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

Good Omens Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Good Omens Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

Good Omens Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Good Omens Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activities

Good Omens Activities

Essay Questions

Good Omens Essay Questions

Exam Questions

Good Omens Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

Good Omens Exam Answer Key

Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Good Omens?

Reading Age

Book Details