Oddney's Otherland Book
Oddney's Otherland Book
What would you do if you found a tunnel beneath your shed? What if you knew it led to a whole other world? And what if that world might be home to a dragon ... with two heads?
Professor Clive Oddney has no doubts - he must investigate! Armed with his late Uncle Cuthbert's journal of mysterious creatures, the retired naturalist and his loyal friend Magnus, the talking magpie, embark on adventure into Otherland. Their quest? To seek out The Two-Headed Firedrake. Will they find it? Not if the mad, the bad and the downright weird buttock-snapping inhabitants of this world have anything to do about it.
A wonderfully wacky Rodney Matthews concept, brimming with his stunning illustrations and a fun-filled story by Sarah Matthews. Presented in hardback, and perfect as a gift book, this real family-friendly fantasy adventure is sure to capture the hearts of both young and old.
More information
* Printing: There have been two printings done to date. The first printing contained a few typographical errors. These errors were corrected and a second printing was run. Both runs however, are still first editions. We are offering both for sale, as we know many collectors would prefer the first printing with the errors. Please select which you would prefer.
Published by: Rodney Matthews Studios
Pages: 114 (includes 23 colour and 45 pencil illustrations)
Language: English
Format: Hardback (210 x 260 mm)
ISBN: 9781916384316
Printed by: Ex Why Zed, in the UK, on FSC certified papers
For: age 7+ (adult fans of fantasy, fun and dragons will love this too!)
I've been looking forward for this book for quite some time, especially since I saw the first pictures and drawings for the project. The finished book fully met my expectations. The story is bizarre in the best way and exciting to read. But the best thing is clearly the wonderful pictures and drawings, especially the dragons and creatures, but also the endearingly eccentric Professor Oddney and his magpie. I just love it.
Great artwork and story. Thanks, Rodney and Sarah!
Excellent!
The moment I saw Oddney's Otherland pop up on my social media, I raced to order a copy, without a moment's hesitation. It arrived on my doorstep here in far-off New Zealand almost as fast - and I wasn't disappointed.
The work of Rodney Matthews has been a huge influence on me, ever since I was a teenager, way back in the mists of time. My bedroom walls were covered with his posters, I searched out as many copies of Michael Moorcock's books for which Mr. Matthews had designed the covers as I could, and I still regularly browse my much-thumbed and coveted copies of 'In Search Of Forever' and 'Last Ship Home' (1st ed., I might add!)
I even tried to get my A-level art teacher to let me do my final essay on Rodney Matthews - including (I hoped) an interview with the great man himself. Alas! 'twas not to be.
Within the pages of those wonderful books were many of the illustrations (and versions thereof) that have finally found their way into Oddney's Otherland - and about time too! Upon flipping through these beautifully printed pages, I was immediately transported! The characters are instantly loveable, every illustration a joy to behold... and after some thirty years of waiting, I finally know the Bloated Hobgoblin's first name! (spoilers!)
Quite aside from the beautiful artwork, the story is delightful, fun, and written in a manner to suit children of all ages, whether accompanied by a a nice hot cup of cocoa or a delicious, full-bodied Malbec. I was hooked from page one.
I sincerely hope that this is just the beginning of many more adventures for Professor Oddney (and Magnus) - especially as I still want to know why the Snort Hog and the Rock Knocker are fighting!
Thank you, Rodney and Sarah Matthews!
All the best.
Joe Harrison
Colonel O'Truth's Miiniature Issues
Wellington, New Zealand
August 6th, 2024
Simply magical