The Graveyard Book

Bibliography:

Gaiman, Neil. 2008. Ill. Dave McKean. The Graveyard Book. New York: Harper Collins Publishers.

ISBN: 978-0-06-053092-1

Summary:

Nobody Owens, born to a family tragically killed by a evil mysterious Jack-of-all-trades finds refuge and family in the town graveyard. Granted "Freedom of the Graveyard", Bod is raised and educated by the residents of the graveyard on a hill, always confined to it's boundaries until he breaks through into the outside world, leading the sinister Jack back to the graveyard in an effort to finish the job he once started, leaving Bod to fight for his life and his freedom.

Analysis:

Neil Gaiman's low fantasy ghost story stars Nobody Owens, Bod for short, an average boy growing up in an anything but average environment. Rescued from the clutches of death by dead graveyard residents, Bod is brought up and educated by ghosts, ghouls, a witch and a being that is neither living nor dead. Emmersed in a fantastical world, Bod's safety is a universal tale of adolescence, finding oneself and truly learning the value of family and friends.

Gaiman's vivid language puts the reader in the graveyard, letting them see "the abandoned funeral chapel, iron doors padlocked, ivy on the sides of the spire, a small tree growing out of the guttering at roof level" (pg. 12). Paired with Dave McKean's gray scale illustrations, the book engages the reader in Bod's adventures while also creating a darker tone that contrasts nicely with Bod's childish innocence and naviety.

Reviews:

“Wistful, witty, wise—and creepy. This needs to be read by anyone who is or has ever been a child.” — Kirkus Reviews (Starred review) from www.mousecircus.com

“An utterly captivating tale…this is a rich story with broad appeal and is highly recommended for teens of all ages. ” — Booklist (Starred Review) from www.mousecircus.com

“Gaiman writes with charm and humor, and again he has a real winner.” — Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) (Starred Review) from www.mousecircus.com

Awards:

Newbery Medal

Carnegie Medal

Hugo Award

Locus Award

Connections:

• Compare Bod's tale with that of Mowgli from Rudyard Kipling's classic book set, The Jungle Book
• Read other works by Neil Gaiman: 
• Coraline (2003)
• M is for Magic (2007)
• Stardust (2001)
• Visit Gaiman's website www.mousecircus.com and browse videos, excerpts, games, etc.