Good Omens Book Summary
The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch
TL;DR
A comically dark tale of an angel and demon teaming up to prevent Armageddon, 'Good Omens' is a witty and irreverent take on the end of the world.
What is Good Omens about
'Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch' by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett is a satirical novel set in the days leading up to Armageddon. According to the prophecies of Agnes Nutter, the world is destined to end next Saturday. As the armies of Heaven and Hell prepare for battle, two unlikely allies—a fussy angel named Aziraphale and a fast-living demon named Crowley—team up to thwart the apocalypse. Their mission becomes complicated when they realize that someone has misplaced the Antichrist, who turns out to be a normal, well-adjusted boy.
Good Omens 6 Key Takeaways
The Prophecy of Agnes Nutter
According to Agnes Nutter's prophecies, the world will end next Saturday. This ancient prediction sets the stage for the impending Armageddon.
Aziraphale and Crowley
An angel and a demon who have become friends over centuries team up to stop Armageddon. Their camaraderie and mutual love for Earth lead them to rebel against their celestial orders.
The Missing Antichrist
The Antichrist, who is supposed to bring about the end of the world, is misplaced. Instead of being a harbinger of doom, he grows up as a normal boy named Adam Young.
The Four Bikers of the Apocalypse
The traditional horsemen of the Apocalypse are reimagined as biker gangs. They add a modern twist to the ancient myth, enhancing the book's satirical tone.
Witch-finders and Witches
The world's last two witch-finders and other quirky characters, like Anathema Device, a descendant of Agnes Nutter, play significant roles in the unfolding events.
The Final Showdown
Characters converge in a dramatic finale where they must prevent Armageddon, combining humor, wit, and suspense.
Top Good Omens Quotes
- 'God does not play dice with the universe; He plays an ineffable game of His own devising.'
- 'It may help to understand human affairs to be clear that most of the great triumphs and tragedies of history are caused, not by people being fundamentally good or fundamentally bad, but by people being fundamentally people.'
Who should read Good Omens?
'Good Omens' is perfect for fans of satirical and fantasy literature. Readers who enjoy witty, humorous takes on serious subjects like religion and the apocalypse will find this book particularly engaging. It’s also appealing to those who appreciate well-developed characters and intricate plotting.
Good Omens Best Reviews
- 'Good Omens is something like what would have happened if Thomas Pynchon, Tom Robbins and Don DeLillo had collaborated.' – The Washington Post
- 'Wickedly funny and surprisingly touching.' – The Guardian
People also liked these summaries
Good Omens FAQs
Is Good Omens based on Neil Gaiman?
Yes, the book 'Good Omens' was co-authored by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett. It was later adapted into a television series, which Gaiman helped create and served as showrunner.
Does Good Omens have a book?
Yes, 'Good Omens' is a novel first published in 1990. It has enjoyed enduring popularity and has been reissued in various formats.
What age is Good Omens book for?
'Good Omens' is generally recommended for readers over the age of 12 due to its complex themes and humor. It is accessible to both young adults and older readers.