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If you’re in the mood for a creepy, dark, yet magical adventure, Coraline by Neil Gaiman is the perfect read. This horror book might be marketed towards younger audiences, but don’t be fooled, it’s packed with enough eerie twists and psychological tension to captivate adult audiences too. The story revolves around Coraline Jones, a curious young girl who stumbles upon an alternate world that mirrors her own, except for one detail: everything in this “Other World” is not what it seems. In this Coraline by Neil Gaiman review, I’ll dive into what makes this book such a standout in the realm of scary books.
Plot Summary of Coraline by Neil Gaiman
The plot of Coraline is deceptively simple but filled with deep, haunting layers. Coraline and her parents move into an old house that’s been divided into flats. Their new home seems ordinary at first. There’s the eccentric Mr. Bobo upstairs training a mouse circus, and two retired actresses, Miss Spink and Miss Forcible, in the flat below. However, Coraline soon discovers a mysterious locked door in her living room. When she opens it, she finds a long, dark hallway that leads to a strange parallel world.
In this “Other World,” Coraline meets her Other Mother and Other Father, creepy doppelgangers of her real parents, but with buttons for eyes. At first, everything seems better. Her Other Parents are loving, the food is tastier, and even her neighbors perform endless cabaret shows just for her. But soon, Coraline learns the horrifying truth. Her Other Mother, also known as the Beldam, wants to keep her there forever and to do so, she must sew buttons into Coraline’s eyes.
Themes and Symbolism in Coraline by Neil Gaiman
One of the things I love most about Coraline by Neil Gaiman is how much depth there is beneath the surface of this scary book. At its heart, the story is about bravery and independence. Coraline starts off as a curious but slightly bored girl, yearning for excitement. Yet, she quickly learns that the perfect world isn’t always as wonderful as it seems. Through her journey, she realizes that the imperfections of her real life, her distant parents, and her quirky neighbors, are what make it real and worth fighting for.
The button eyes of the Other Mother and other inhabitants of the alternate world are one of the most striking symbols in the book. They represent the loss of individuality, and how the Beldam seeks to control everything around her. The button eyes also symbolize blindness, the inability to see reality for what it truly is. Coraline, in contrast, learns to appreciate the value of seeing clearly, even if the world isn’t perfect.
Character Analysis in Coraline by Neil Gaiman
Coraline Jones
Coraline is one of the most relatable and inspiring young protagonists in modern horror literature. She’s adventurous, clever, and resilient. She starts the story as a bored child seeking excitement, her bravery grows with each challenge she faces. By the end, she is resourceful and courageous, learning to trust her instincts and solve problems on her own.
The Other Mother (Beldam)
The Other Mother is the perfect horror villain, cunning, manipulative, and terrifying. Neil Gaiman created a villain who is both sinister and maternal, using her false love as a weapon to trap Coraline. Her character is a fascinating blend of nurturing and monstrous, making her one of the most memorable figures in the horror genre.
The Black Cat
Serving as Coraline’s guide through the Other World, the Black Cat is a mysterious and clever character. He can speak in the Other World and offers cryptic advice to Coraline, nudging her towards the right path. The cat’s independence and ability to move between worlds make him a symbol of wisdom and insight.
Areas of Critique in Coraline by Neil Gaiman
While Coraline is a fantastic read, some readers might find a few characters, like Miss Spink, Miss Forcible, and Mr. Bobo, underutilized in the grand scheme of things. They add quirky charm to the story, but their role in the overall plot is limited. Also, for readers seeking intense, visceral horror, the scares in Coraline may feel more psychological than outright terrifying.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Coraline by Neil Gaiman is a haunting, beautifully written story that stands out as a modern classic in the horror genre. Its combination of fantasy and horror makes it a must-read for fans of both genres. Coraline’s journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of courage, independence, and seeing the world as it truly is.
If you’re looking for a scary book that blends the fantastical with the terrifying, Coraline is a horror book definitely worth picking up.
