Book Review - The Graveyard Book

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Gaiman, Neil. (2008). Illustrated by Dave McKean. THE GRAVEYARD BOOK.
HarperCollins Pub. ISBN: 9780060530921

2. PLOT SUMMARY

This story follows Nobody ‘Bod’ Owens from the time he was a baby to a teenager. He
escapes death from a skilled killer who believes Bod is part of a prophecy that will take
down his evil organization. Bod finds safety in a graveyard where a strange caretaker
and ghosts raise him. The novel follows his journey of trying to exist between the life of
the living and the dead all while avoiding the killer that murdered his family.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This fantasy novel revolving around ghosts, magic, and monsters involves a mystery that
takes years to solve. The different aspects such as Bod learning how to fade and dream
walk and being the only one from the living who is able to interact with the dead of the
graveyard, follow the fantasy trope that the main character is somehow different from
others. This provides a unique contrast with his name, Nobody, as it signifies someone
who is easily forgotten or unimportant. This is a coming of age tale with a twist. Nobody
has similar trials and tribulations of kids such as fighting with parents and dealing with
bullies, but also has the unique problem of having to run from a killer and being raised in
a graveyard.

The repeated theme of not belonging pops up throughout the book as Nobody tries to
exist in different worlds. This can be relatable for any reader who may feel out of place
and unsure of who they are. The story progresses naturally as the author starts with
childlike dialogue that develops into that of a young adult as the main character grows.
Until ultimately, he has to go off on his own, paralleling that of children growing up ad
leaving the nest. This unveils the same bittersweet feelings of sadness, excitement,
anticipation, and uncertainty.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

JOHN NEWBERY MEDAL
KIRKUS STAR REVIEW: “Closer in tone to American Gods than to Coraline, but
permeated with Bod’s innocence, this needs to be read by anyone who is or has ever
been a child.”
BOOKLIST STAR REVIEW: “A full-cast recording of Neil Gaiman’s multi-award-winning
novel brings rich new dimensions to this riveting tale.”

5. CONNECTIONS

*Students could break down the poem at the beginning before reading the novel and
after reading to see the differences in their interpretations.
*Students could write
*Read The Graveyard Book as a graphic novel:
THE GRAVEYARD BOOK GRAPHIC NOVEL VOLUME 1. ISBN: 978-0062312556
THE GRAVEYARD BOOK GRAPHIC NOVEL VOLUME 2. ISBN: 978-0062312563

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