Summary: When Nobody Owens was a baby, his family was murdered by a mysterious man. He was supposed to die that night as well, but he managed to escape. He wandered along the old cemetery where he was discovered by the dead inhabiting the place. That same night, they decided to keep him to raise him as theirs. In the graveyard, is where he now lives. This is his story.Review: I didn't really like Coraline by Neil Gaiman -- too out there and creepy! -- but I really enjoyed The Graveyard Book. First off, seeing as it is written by someone like Neil Gaiman, it was quite expected that the plot and premise are going to be original and creative. The writing was, for lack of a better word, superb. I honestly felt like I was reading poetry the entire time. His prose and worldplay is just plain simple, but lovely. The characters are strong. The plot development -- effortless.
Also in the book, there are some illustrations included that truly captured the overall dark and creepy feel of the story of Nobody Owens and the graveyard.
Overall, it's a great novel. Its biggest strength though, at least in my opinion, would be that it is extremely well-written. Neil Gaiman is able to mix an amazing mixture of things you never thought would go well together; dark, light, humor, creepy, scary, terrifying, and wonderful all at the same time. I definitely recommend this as well, but only to certain readers. Personally, I don't believe this is appropriate for anyone younger than 10 years old, as it is quite dark for anyone of that age, but of course, it's all up to the parents in the end. Mostly, this would be a great and unique read for junior readers and older.
Ive walked past this over and over again in my local library i think its the cover that puts me of, it seems a bit childish but creepy huh? sounds good maybe ill pick it up this time thanks! :)
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you about the writing--Neil Gaiman has a beautiful style. I really enjoyed how the setting of the graveyard was created, with enough fun and light moments to take away from the obvious creepiness.
ReplyDeleteGaiman is one of my favorite authors--- happy you enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteI'm really liking The Lightning thief, btw.
I really need to read this book, don't I! I've heard so many great things about it!
ReplyDeleteYou have an award!
http://potterpercyandi.blogspot.com/2010/05/prolific-blogger-award.html
@blueicegal: It's more for children and junior readers, but I think if you enjoy books like that, then you'll like this as well :)
ReplyDelete@Anna: Sometimes I find myself reading his writing instead of the actual story. Is that bad? I can't help it. His writing is addicting.
@Lesa: Neil Gaiman is quite a talented writer -- and definitely with a mind of his own!
And glad to hear you're liking The Lightning Thief! Can't wait to hear what you think about it overall once you're finished with it.
@Anne: I don't think it's for everyone. But if you like books like this, then you might actually enjoy it like I did! :) And thank you so much for that generous award, Anne!