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The Goblins of Labyrinth
This book of the grotesque creatures who love to torment unsuspecting humans features detailed illustrations and humorous tales depicting the goblins' mind and spirit
137 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1986
13 people are currently reading
2183 people want to read
About the author
Terry Jones
193 books290 followersLibrarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
Terence Graham Parry Jones was a Welsh actor, comedian, director, historian, writer and member of the Monty Python comedy troupe.
After graduating from Oxford University with a degree in English, Jones and writing partner Michael Palin wrote and performed for several high-profile British comedy programmes, including Do Not Adjust Your Set and The Frost Report, before creating Monty Python's Flying Circus with Cambridge graduates Graham Chapman, John Cleese, and Eric Idle and American animator-filmmaker Terry Gilliam. Jones was largely responsible for the programme's innovative, surreal structure, in which sketches flowed from one to the next without the use of punch lines. He made his directorial debut with Monty Python and the Holy Grail, which he co-directed with Gilliam, and also directed the subsequent Python films Life of Brian and The Meaning of Life.
Jones co-created and co-wrote with Palin the anthology series Ripping Yarns. He also wrote an early draft of Jim Henson's film Labyrinth and is credited with the screenplay, though little of his work actually remained in the final cut. Jones was a well-respected medieval historian, having written several books and presented television documentaries about the period, as well as a prolific children's author. In 2016, Jones received a Lifetime Achievement award at the BAFTA Cymru Awards for his outstanding contribution to television and film. After living for several years with a degenerative aphasia, he gradually lost the ability to speak and died in 2020 from frontotemporal dementia.
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
Terence Graham Parry Jones was a Welsh actor, comedian, director, historian, writer and member of the Monty Python comedy troupe.
After graduating from Oxford University with a degree in English, Jones and writing partner Michael Palin wrote and performed for several high-profile British comedy programmes, including Do Not Adjust Your Set and The Frost Report, before creating Monty Python's Flying Circus with Cambridge graduates Graham Chapman, John Cleese, and Eric Idle and American animator-filmmaker Terry Gilliam. Jones was largely responsible for the programme's innovative, surreal structure, in which sketches flowed from one to the next without the use of punch lines. He made his directorial debut with Monty Python and the Holy Grail, which he co-directed with Gilliam, and also directed the subsequent Python films Life of Brian and The Meaning of Life.
Jones co-created and co-wrote with Palin the anthology series Ripping Yarns. He also wrote an early draft of Jim Henson's film Labyrinth and is credited with the screenplay, though little of his work actually remained in the final cut. Jones was a well-respected medieval historian, having written several books and presented television documentaries about the period, as well as a prolific children's author. In 2016, Jones received a Lifetime Achievement award at the BAFTA Cymru Awards for his outstanding contribution to television and film. After living for several years with a degenerative aphasia, he gradually lost the ability to speak and died in 2020 from frontotemporal dementia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
August 24, 2019
Labyrinth will always be my favorite film. Froud is an inspiration and Bowie is everything.
December 26, 2017
It's a book of Brian Froud art. what's not to love? 😊
May 11, 2019
First of I will have to admit I am a huge fan of Brian Froud (not really a huge surprise though really). Having just reading the Dark Crystal Creation Myth graphic novel series and contemplating the sequel series as well I must admit I have seen quite a bit of his work recently.
That said it amazes me how fresh his work appears even after all these years (this is the original publication I am reading by the way) as it dates back to the early 80s.
The book consists of a catalogue of the various goblins you may find wandering around the labyrinth and its great fun. A combination of sketches and water colours along with fun and humours text explaining a little about them.
The book I will admit is really aimed at the fans though - it tells nothing of the film or even much about the world they live in - hence the reason I am not worrying about spoilers.
But what it does show is the creativity of Brian and the ideas that come in to his head. I know that the work he has done with the Henson Company have made his name but the creativity of this man is boundless and I know I will be eager to dig in to more of his career. As the stars review shows its an amazing book.
That said it amazes me how fresh his work appears even after all these years (this is the original publication I am reading by the way) as it dates back to the early 80s.
The book consists of a catalogue of the various goblins you may find wandering around the labyrinth and its great fun. A combination of sketches and water colours along with fun and humours text explaining a little about them.
The book I will admit is really aimed at the fans though - it tells nothing of the film or even much about the world they live in - hence the reason I am not worrying about spoilers.
But what it does show is the creativity of Brian and the ideas that come in to his head. I know that the work he has done with the Henson Company have made his name but the creativity of this man is boundless and I know I will be eager to dig in to more of his career. As the stars review shows its an amazing book.
June 17, 2009
I was obsessed with this movie (Labyrinth) in the 80s and had the opportunity to meet Brian Froud, creator of the Goblins, twice at Comic Con in San Diego. I absolutely love his artwork and if you are a fan of the movie, you must own this book!
June 19, 2008
It's about Labyrinth, so of course it's amazing.
January 17, 2025
pls pls pls plspls let me in the froud polycule PLEASE
June 30, 2011
When a small, impossibly ancient, earthenware pot was first discovered in remote Olduvai Gorge its significance was such that it was promptly ignored and abandoned. Luckily it was later discovered and destroyed by Brian Froud. However before its destruction Mr Froud was able to discover a message hidden within this pot. And when that message was eventually deciphered he began a journey that would lead to the greatest goblin related discovery in history.
The Labyrinth, created by a goblin king, was built as a refuge to goblins from those in the world not of goblinkind. Over the years the Labyrinth has become one of the only places in the world where goblins can be found, however until now little has ever been known of their daily lives let alone their appearances. But when one goblin artist decided to thrown down his images of goblins, images that were later enhanced or butchered depending on who you talk to, finally the world was introduced to the goblins of Labyrinth.
The Goblins Of Labyrinth is a unique look at a species that has eluded, beguiled, teased, tormented and terrorised many a human over the course of history, a time honoured goblin pastime that is still alive and well today. There is much to read, see and ponder within these pages, the least of which not being the story, and goblins, behind the well known movie Labyrinth. Aside from this however there are plenty of legends, tales and poems, not to mention recipes, games, philosophies and sacred days to uncover. All in all a very beautifully presented book of not so beautiful beasts.
The Labyrinth, created by a goblin king, was built as a refuge to goblins from those in the world not of goblinkind. Over the years the Labyrinth has become one of the only places in the world where goblins can be found, however until now little has ever been known of their daily lives let alone their appearances. But when one goblin artist decided to thrown down his images of goblins, images that were later enhanced or butchered depending on who you talk to, finally the world was introduced to the goblins of Labyrinth.
The Goblins Of Labyrinth is a unique look at a species that has eluded, beguiled, teased, tormented and terrorised many a human over the course of history, a time honoured goblin pastime that is still alive and well today. There is much to read, see and ponder within these pages, the least of which not being the story, and goblins, behind the well known movie Labyrinth. Aside from this however there are plenty of legends, tales and poems, not to mention recipes, games, philosophies and sacred days to uncover. All in all a very beautifully presented book of not so beautiful beasts.
November 14, 2010
Mínimo, una carcajada por goblin.
Cuando lo relea seguro le escriba su correspondiente reseña.
Cuando lo relea seguro le escriba su correspondiente reseña.
March 4, 2020
Hilarious,with some of the best Fairy Art out there. Brian Froud ranks up with Tony DiTerlizzi and Chris Riddell as one of the greatest Fantasy artists out there.
October 4, 2008
Brian Froud is an inspirational artist.
May 19, 2019
BRIAN FROUD, JIM HENSON, TERRY JONES AND DAVID BOWIE collaborated to create a work of art called The Labyrinth roughly twenty years ago. Here, Brian Froud shares his concept sketchbook, fleshed out with wry character bios by Terry Jones, which were integral to the final form of that work of art. If The Labyrinth is tour childhood too, this book is for you.
April 12, 2016
As a major fan of labyrinth I accept anything I can get my hands on that relates to it, this book was a birthday gift from a close friend of mine. Some fun is to be had thru the pages but don't expect the writings on particular goblins to be anything remotely serious, it's all hog wash and rubbish but fun. If your a fan pick it up, you can read it in a day but as a collector it's a must have piece to your labyrinth collection.
"I didn't know but suggested that a labyrinth would make a really good metaphor for the soul's journey."
-B.Froud
"He is Sarah's inner fantasy, a figure made up of her daydreams and nightmares. He is seen thru her eyes as part dangerous goblin, part glamorous rock star."
-B.Froud
"I didn't know but suggested that a labyrinth would make a really good metaphor for the soul's journey."
-B.Froud
"He is Sarah's inner fantasy, a figure made up of her daydreams and nightmares. He is seen thru her eyes as part dangerous goblin, part glamorous rock star."
-B.Froud
January 18, 2016
This book never fails to bring a smile to my face. Love the descriptions of the various goblins with the footnotes. Loved the movie as well.
June 22, 2018
Brian Froud is an amazing artist, and his books on fantasy art are timeless. This is the obvious reason why Jim Henson brought Froud in to help design the worlds of two of Hensons movies: The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. This book is a sort of offshoot of Froud's designs with the Labyrinth movie. There are tons of beautiful illustrations on every page, but it's not just art that you get.
The book also gives you a little insight on the goblin world, like how it came to be and how the Goblin King became king (and how he rules the goblins). And of course you get a ton of goblins to check out and learn more details of. This is a whimsical book that doesn't devolve into any scientific observations and such. The only thing I find a bit disappointing is you don't get anything on some of the more notable goblins from the movie. No Hoggle. No Sir Dittimus. Not even those weird samurai goblins with the tiny creatures on their staffs. Still if you can get around this book not being a "true" guide to the Labyrinth movie then you are in for a treat.
The book also gives you a little insight on the goblin world, like how it came to be and how the Goblin King became king (and how he rules the goblins). And of course you get a ton of goblins to check out and learn more details of. This is a whimsical book that doesn't devolve into any scientific observations and such. The only thing I find a bit disappointing is you don't get anything on some of the more notable goblins from the movie. No Hoggle. No Sir Dittimus. Not even those weird samurai goblins with the tiny creatures on their staffs. Still if you can get around this book not being a "true" guide to the Labyrinth movie then you are in for a treat.
November 23, 2024
I have the 1986 hardback edition from Pavilion. This is a much leafed book with illustrations by Brian Froud and very silly write ups by Terry Jones. Both were involved with the film Labyrinth (a favourite of mine) as conceptual artist and scriptwriter respectively, but this book is only inspired by the film rather than a specific collection of concept art or script extracts, which is a little disappointing. Good as they are, the artworks and commentary don’t give the impression the authors tried very hard. It’s more bandwaggoning than a record of the movie. Nevertheless, it’s great fun and a pleasure to read and reread.
November 12, 2024
A deeper look into Brian and Wendy Froud's imaginative world that was the basis for Jim Henson's The Labyrinth film. This is a must-read for all those who treasure the movie and would like a greater understanding of those who inhabit the Labyrinth. I cannot recommend it enough and absolutely love this book.
September 6, 2018
Love the art, the foreward, and the afterward. The actual goblin descriptions vary. Some are funny, others confusing, and some just fall flat entirely. The author is more describing the art from an outsider's perspective, rather than anything approaching lore or artist intent. YMMV.
November 22, 2018
This is honestly one of the most brilliant things I've ever read. Thank you to my dad for finding it hidden away amongst an assortment of random objects in our spare room and giving it to me because he knows me too well.
March 15, 2022
This book was really fun! I loved how weird and crazy the goblins and their customs are (the writing was really fun) and Brian Froud's drawings are just as lovely as always. I would have preferred a more structured experience, but you can't really get goblins to be structured, can you?
August 6, 2018
Just one word: AMAZING.
Labyrinth fans will definitely love this book as much as I did.
Labyrinth fans will definitely love this book as much as I did.
June 18, 2022
Gorgeous looking book. I love Brian Froud's illustrations and the stories of all of the goblins work so well.
January 5, 2023
A very fun and interesting read for anyone that loves the movie. The artwork and afterward are the real stars of the book, though.
September 29, 2023
I have read other books by Brian Froud and this one is as entertaining as the others. Terry Jones' part of the book is silly and funny.
April 11, 2025
Can I feel your touch again? It lingers on my skin like a promise.
March 9, 2017
I really liked the weird goblin drawings and nonsensical descriptions, but I'm knocking it down a star because some of the prettiest art was spoiled by the book's arrangement. Know when the focus of a painting is caught between two pages and it sort of gets buried in the spine? I hate that.
October 26, 2023
Los Goblins del Laberinto. Título original: The Goblins of Labyrinth.
June 20, 2015
For anyone enthralled by the design element of the Jim Henson masterpiece Labyrinth, this book is a must. The 'rough around the edges' style of sketching and watercolour painting performed by Froud is a wonder to behold, and I'm especially fond of the pieces which are only half-detailed, making the goblins look like faded memories or dream-like apparitions. Of the artists I admire, he's one of the the few that makes me want to pick up a pencil or paint brush and start creating.
For me the book falls down on the Terry Jones text, which doesn't really add much. I expect children may enjoy the silliness and nonsense he creates; characters like Nive and Forwke, Loch and Ness, but the text felt a bit flat and pointless. The only mini-story that stuck with me and didn't feel like a throwaway (because it lasted longer than most of the other text) was the story of Boegiboe and his empty hand.
I can admire both Froud and Jones as very creative individuals whose works I both love, but this book is all about the gorgeous illustrations.
For me the book falls down on the Terry Jones text, which doesn't really add much. I expect children may enjoy the silliness and nonsense he creates; characters like Nive and Forwke, Loch and Ness, but the text felt a bit flat and pointless. The only mini-story that stuck with me and didn't feel like a throwaway (because it lasted longer than most of the other text) was the story of Boegiboe and his empty hand.
I can admire both Froud and Jones as very creative individuals whose works I both love, but this book is all about the gorgeous illustrations.
May 23, 2016
Obviously not too intensive of a read, but it is very silly and very fun and my GOD are the illustrations beautiful! Brian Froud has always had a wonderful knack for illustrating the best goblins, fairies, and other magical creations and this book is no exception. Nearly all of the goblins shown in this book you can find in the movie. Terry Jones does a great job of writing about each of the goblins and shedding some light on their histories and quirks. For example, Agnes (a scavenging goblin - you know the one in the dump) "is capable of collecting and carrying seventy times her own weight in discarded economic theories and abandoned political objectives. The empty promises, hollow opinions and worthless political statements are all snapped up by this voracious creature." A wonderful witty treat for fans of Jim Henson, Brian Froud, and of course, Labyrinth!
May 24, 2010
Brian Froud, the creative genius behind Jim Henson’s The Labyrinth, presents his concept illustrations for the film in this beautiful book. Written as a long-lost “archeological find,” this book catalogues a variety of different goblins who allegedly lived 60 million years ago. It was a delight to see some of the original sketches that would eventually evolve into puppets from one of my favorite movies as a child. The best part was the afterward. There’s not too much content, but I love the idea of a whimsical brainstorming session with Jim Henson in the back of a limo and the evolution of David Bowie into Jared the Goblin King. This is a great coffee table book for any fan of The Labyrinth.
April 11, 2010
Absolutely beautiful art, but don't think this has everything to do with what you saw in the movie. The majority of the goblins are original fellows that you don't get to see in the movies, and each has his own back story, written by the wonderful Terry Jones. Tons of sketches and creature designs, with some gorgeous paintings. A lot of care went into creating the little world of the Labyrinth and it's denizens. Just don't expect to be reading about Jareth and Sarah.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews