The Graveyard Book

Gaiman, N. (2008). The graveyard book. New York: HarperCollins

Nobody “Bob” Owens lives in a graveyard since the murder of his parents and family by “Jack” when he was a toddler (in a nod to The Jungle Book). He is raised by his ghost foster parents Mr. and Mrs. Owens and by the graveyard caretaker Silas who is able to leave to graveyard. Bod grows up in the graveyard and even has a tutor, Mrs. Lupescu (who is later revealed to be a werewolf). Bod gets to know all the inhabitants of his home and even has interaction with some of the scarier beings of the underworld like the Sleer and the ghouls. He has several adventures in the real world including being kidnapped and going to school.  His time living in the graveyard ends once Silas and the Honor Guard kill all of the “Jacks of All Trades” who were responsible for his family’s death and were still hunting him.

This fantasy novel would appeal to students fourth grade and up who enjoy stories involving beings from the underworld. As he grow up, he is continually curious and seeking knowledge, occasionally getting into trouble during his quest. The theme of good and evil along with making the right choices continues through the book. Bod has to decide which choice to make. The black and white illustrations in the book add an extra level of darkness sure to delight some readers. The novel has some darker tones and may be a little intense for some sensitive children. 

 2009 Newberry Aware Winner