Author: Neil Gaiman

Year of Publication: 30th September 2008

PLOT: 5/5

CHARACTERS: 4.5/5

WRITING: 5/5

CLIMAX: 4.5/5

ENTERTAINMENT: 4.5/5

Plot:

This is the tale of Bod (Nobody Owens), a man forced to live in a cemetery due to the murder of every member of his family. His guardian Silas, who is neither alive nor dead, assists Mr. and Mrs. Owens, ghosts, in raising him. The book is intended for readers aged 8 to 11, but the graphic murder scenes in the first chapter might cause some readers to read it older. Parents should read the passage before making a choice.

Almost every chapter is a stand-alone, brief novella about a specific event in Bod’s life. This makes it perfect for bedtime reading and for diving into. Before each chapter in the Chris Riddell version, full-page graphics provide a preview of the plot the reader can anticipate. All of them have a sardonic sense of humour and depict Bod’s life up until the age of 15. The Hounds of God is extremely depressing and hilarious. Ghouls adopt the name of the deceased individual whose body they consumed first, for example, the Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Chinese Emperor, or the Thirty-third President of the United States. Several chapters are devoted to the experience of growing up as an outsider.

The novel’s conclusion is thrilling and features a twist that this reader did not anticipate. This book deserved to receive this year’s Carnegie prize for children’s literature. Although child-friendly, the writing style is quite descriptive and unique. Although it will make a fantastic movie, reading the book is always a greater experience.

Neil Gaiman has a genuine talent for imaginatively blending spooky and sweet themes, as well as a sad conclusion, to create a singular and unforgettable tale that appeals to both children and adults.

What I liked about/didn’t like about the book?

This book was fantastic. At first, I was a little dubious because the plot develops so slowly, but as Bod’s story started, I found it very challenging to put down. In addition to being a creative adventure about a boy who lives in a graveyard, which it is of course and does wonderfully, this book by Neil Gaiman also engages in a larger broader discourse about maturing, being one’s own self, living, learning, and letting go. In spite of the fact that Bod’s family is slaughtered in the first few chapters, I would be hesitant to categorise this as middle grade even though I really enjoyed it as an adult. Simply said, it was great.

Incredibly eerie, captivating, and melancholy, with exquisite prose. Each chapter almost reads like a small story detailing an adventure Bod has while residing in the cemetery. Throughout time, we get to see how Bod picks up lessons from the graveyard’s residents and develops.

Who should read this?

This novel has a simplicity that breeds mystery and is a depth unto itself. This is one of those books that everybody can appreciate.

Final Verdict

You ought to read this for yourself.