The Gates

A Novel

By: John Connolly

Narrated by: Jonathan Cake

Bursting with imagination and impossible to put down, this “wholly original” (People) and “refreshing” (San Francisco Chronicle) novel from New York Times bestselling author John Connolly is about the pull between good and evil, physics and fantasy—and a quirky boy, who is impossible not to love, and the unlikely cast of characters who give him the strength to stand up to a demonic power.

Young Samuel Johnson and his dachshund, Boswell, are trying to show initiative by trick-or-treating a full three days before Halloween, which is how they come to witness strange goings-on at 666 Crowley Road. The Abernathys don't mean any harm by their flirtation with the underworld, but when they unknowingly call forth Satan himself, they create a gap in the universe, a gap through which a pair of enormous gates is visible. The gates to Hell. And there are some pretty terrifying beings just itching to get out...

Can one small boy defeat evil? Can he harness the power of science, faith, and love to save the world as we know it?©2009 John Connolly; (P)2009 Simon & Schuster

Hysterical!

If you could sum up The Gates in three words, what would they be?

Hysterically entertaining listening.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Gates?

Nerd's encounter with the policeman while driving his Porsche.

Have you listened to any of Jonathan Cake’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Had not heard him before on an audiobook, although had seen him in movies. He was very good in this.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I laughed all the way through.

Any additional comments?

I can totally imagine this as a Brit's reaction to an invasion from hell. The demons hadn't a chance.

Great book - For kids

This was a very entertaining book. I dont know if it was written for kids or for adults but it is better read for kids. Great book though for fun!

Cute

This book about demons trying to take over the world is very cute, and brought to mind Good Omens by Pratchett and Gaiman. Samuel Johnson and Boswell are wonderful heroes, and the flow of the story keeps you riveted.

Gets my vote for perfection

Quantum physics, tenderness, humor, sharp and capable children, charming demons, perfectly frightening demons, AND a loyal dog! One of my all time favorites and a thoroughly enjoyable frequent re-read.

The Gates - What a ride!

My wife and I thought this was one of the most entertaining audiobooks to listen to driving between home and work. It's a a real joy ride, and the reader is thoroughly entertaining. Great character voices!