Gaiman, Neil. The Graveyard Book. HarperCollins (2008). ISBN-10: 0060530928

Plot Summary

Nobody Owens is a living boy who is rescued by ghosts in a graveyard after the horrific death of his family. Because the “man Jack” is still looking for the young boy, the ghosts work to keep him safe. As a result, Bod becomes essentially isolated from the world outside of the graveyard. He does, however, develop a variety of friendships with ghosts and ghouls. And, he even develops a strong bond with another living girl named Scarlet who visits the graveyard when she is young and then again when she is older. Over time, Bod is expected to brave the living world without any help from the dead.

Critical Evaluation

Bod grows both physically and emotionally throughout this novel. He is a boy that lives in a graveyard where he is consistently protected. I enjoyed the development of Bod as the main character in this story. And, I especially liked Gaiman’s descriptions of the various minor characters that contributed to the overall plot of the story. The setting is unique, and the themes are clear and meaningful to young adults and children. A variety of amazing illustrations complete this literary work.

Reader's Annotation

Bod, or Nobody Owens, is a boy who lives among the dead in a graveyard. His parents are murdered, and he spends his younger years and teen years remaining, for the most part, within the confines of the graveyard. He develops many relationships with ghosts.

About the Author

Neil Richard Gaiman was born on November 10, 1960. He is currently an English author who specializes in science fiction and fantasy. He has written a variety of novels, short stories, comics, films, graphic novels, and even audio theater. His distinguished works include Coraline, The Sandman (graphic novel series), American Gods, and Stardust. His writings have received various awards, including the 2009 Newbery Medal.

Genre

Fantasy Fiction

Curriculum Ties

Language Arts, Social Studies

Booktalking Ideas

Read aloud from 1st line…

“There was a hand in the darkness, and it held a knife.” Niel Gaiman, the author of Coraline, has written another blend of humor, suspense, macabre, horror, and fantasy. Visit the library to check out The Graveyard Book, a story about a boy who lives in a graveyard after his parents are murdered.

Reading Level/Interest Age

Ages 9-12

Reason for Book Selection

The book contains interesting relationships between several characters. And, the illustrations are absolutely perfect!