For fans of classic science fiction and the enduring legacy of Doctor Who, the Target novelisations hold a special place. Stepping back into that familiar format with Paul Cornell’s adaptation of “Twice Upon a Time” feels like a nostalgic journey, yet it offers much more than a simple retelling of the beloved Christmas special. Initially, one might question the necessity of revisiting a story so recently aired, but this novelisation quickly establishes its own unique value, particularly for those eager to delve deeper into the themes and emotions of Doctor Who: Twice Upon a Time.
Cornell masterfully captures the essence of the Target novel aesthetic. At just over 160 pages, the book mirrors the concise and engaging style of those classic adaptations. The narrative closely follows the structure of the television episode, which, at first glance, might seem redundant. Having watched “Twice Upon a Time” relatively recently, the story is still vivid in memory. However, this close adherence to the source material becomes a strength, allowing readers to relive the adventure through a different lens, enriched by Cornell’s insightful prose.
Paul Cornell is no stranger to the Whoniverse, having penned acclaimed episodes like “Father’s Day” and “Human Nature.” His deep understanding of the Doctor’s character and the emotional core of Doctor Who is evident throughout this novelisation. Unlike some novelisations that might significantly deviate from the televised version, “Twice Upon a Time” remains faithful to the plot, but Cornell skillfully expands upon the inner lives of the characters. This approach is particularly effective in a story that is inherently introspective, dealing with themes of regeneration, legacy, and the Doctor’s long and complex life.
The initial act of both the episode and the novelisation is deliberately paced, taking its time to introduce the War Doctor, the Twelfth Doctor, and Captain Lethbridge-Stewart, caught in a temporal anomaly. While some might find this slow burn frustrating, it mirrors the contemplative nature of the story. Cornell uses this space to delve into the Doctors’ minds, exploring their weariness and their reflections on their past and future. This internal exploration is where the novelisation truly shines, exceeding what could be conveyed on screen. It echoes the approach taken in the novelisation of “The Day of the Doctor,” where the format allowed for a richer examination of the Doctor’s psyche.
As the story unfolds, Cornell seamlessly weaves in his own voice, enhancing the narrative with recurring gags and, more importantly, a profound exploration of the characters’ mental and emotional states. The novel format becomes a powerful tool for accessing the Doctor’s inner turmoil about his life, his impending regeneration, and the weight of his actions across time and space. This deep dive into the Doctor’s psyche elevates the novelisation beyond a simple adaptation, transforming it into a more profound and emotionally resonant experience.
One of the most impactful additions Cornell makes is in expanding Bill Potts’ perspective. The novel provides crucial backstory, bridging the gap between “The Doctor Falls” and “Twice Upon a Time” from Bill’s point of view. This insight significantly amplifies the emotional weight of the ending, adding layers of depth to Bill’s farewell and her continued presence in the Doctor’s life. This expanded perspective is a testament to Cornell’s understanding of the characters and his ability to enhance the emotional impact of the story through the written word.
Furthermore, Cornell amplifies a subtle yet significant theme from Steven Moffat’s era: the idea of the Doctor as a fairytale. While present in the televised episode, the novelisation gives this concept more prominence, drawing parallels back to Season 5 and the Pandorica story arc. By threading this fairytale motif throughout the narrative, Cornell enriches the story’s thematic depth, transforming “Twice Upon a Time” into a poignant reflection on the Doctor’s enduring myth and his place in the universe.
While most additions are seamlessly integrated, Cornell’s handling of the First Doctor’s sexist remarks from the episode feels slightly less smooth. It’s clear Cornell, like many viewers, found these jokes problematic and attempts to contextualize them. However, this justification sometimes feels a little forced and doesn’t fully resolve the issue. Despite this minor point, it’s a small imperfection within an otherwise exceptional work.
Ultimately, what begins as a seemingly straightforward Target novelisation of Doctor Who: Twice Upon a Time evolves into something truly remarkable. Within its concise length, Cornell crafts an epic exploration of profound themes – death, love, life, and the power of fairytales. This novelisation is not just a retelling; it is a valuable expansion of the story, offering fresh insights and emotional depth that will resonate deeply with Doctor Who fans. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of Target novelisations and the storytelling prowess of Paul Cornell.
