Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book enchants with its imaginative storytelling and rich, darkly whimsical atmosphere. Critics praise its unique characters and heartfelt themes. However, some find its pacing uneven and certain elements less engaging for adults. Overall, it's a compelling read for both young and mature audiences.

The ideal reader for Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book enjoys dark fantasy intertwined with coming-of-age tales. Fans of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series or Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events will appreciate the blend of whimsy and macabre, captivating both teens and adults with its unique storytelling and atmospheric charm.

In The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, an orphan boy named Nobody "Bod" Owens is raised by ghosts in a cemetery, where he learns to become invisible, haunt people’s dreams, and face his destiny against those who want to kill him. The story encompasses themes of family, adventure, and destiny, as Bod navigates life among the dead and encounters both friends and foes. The book contains scenes of violence.

Mysterious / Fantastical / Dark / Heartwarming

- Neil Gaiman's The Graveyard Book was inspired by Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book, as Gaiman himself described it as "The Jungle Book in a graveyard."
- The book is notable for having won both the Newbery Medal and the Carnegie Medal, making Gaiman the first author to win both awards for the same work.
- The Graveyard Book features illustrations by acclaimed artists Dave McKean and Chris Riddell, depending on the edition.

**Nobody "Bod" Owens**  
A young boy who is raised by ghosts in a graveyard after surviving a tragedy as a toddler. Bod learns various skills from the graveyard's inhabitants and slowly grows into a brave and resourceful character.

**Silas**  
A mysterious, tall guardian with extraordinary abilities who cares for Bod and provides guidance. He has a complex nature that combines wisdom, strength, and a caring disposition.

**Jack Frost**  
An assassin who plays a central antagonistic role and is known for his precision and ruthless nature. He has a deeper connection to a secretive society with sinister aims.

**Scarlett Perkins**  
A bright and imaginative girl who becomes Bod’s friend and has a significant impact on his life. She shares a unique bond with Bod and experiences both friendship and conflict with him.

**Liza Hempstock**  
A ghost from the 1600s who retains her witch powers and becomes a friend to Bod. She cares for him and plays a supportive role throughout the story.

**The Owenses**  
A couple from the graveyard who adopt Bod and provide him with parental love and care. Mrs. Owens particularly plays a nurturing role in Bod's upbringing.

**Miss Lupescu**  
A stern but kind guardian and instructor who watches over Bod when Silas is away. Her mysterious nature conceals significant strength and importance.

**Ghouls**  
Creatures that inhabit a dangerous world accessible through the graveyard, with peculiar names and unsettling habits. They provide Bod with a unique adventure and challenges.

**Bolger and Hustings**  
Antique dealers who become entwined with Bod due to their greed and cunning. They represent worldly dangers Bod must navigate as he grows up.

**Nick and Mo**  
School bullies who create challenges for Bod with their intimidating demeanor and plans. They provoke Bod to use his unique skills in creative ways.

**Jacks of All Trades and the Honour Guard**  
A secretive society with malicious aims opposed by a group of protectors. They serve as part of the broader conflict Bod faces as he grows.

**Lady on the Grey**  
A majestic figure respected by the graveyard's ghosts, her advice is considered wise and pivotal. She embodies a mysterious authority in the story.

Neil Gaiman

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Graveyard Book and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Graveyard Book Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Graveyard Book Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapter 1 The Graveyard Book Chapter 1 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 2-Interlude

The Graveyard Book Chapter 2-Interlude Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-8

The Graveyard Book Chapters 6-8 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

The Graveyard Book Character Analysis

theme

Themes

The Graveyard Book Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Graveyard Book Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

The Graveyard Book Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The Graveyard Book Essay Topics

Introduction

The Graveyard Book Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

The Graveyard Book Before Reading

During Reading

The Graveyard Book During Reading

After Reading

The Graveyard Book After Reading

The Graveyard Book

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Graveyard Book?

Reading Age

Book Details