Finding Nobody

Nobody Owens wasn't meant to die on the day when Jack came to murder him and his family. For someone like Jack, killing a toddler should be easy, but as fate would have it, the toddler decides to go out for an adventure when he is awakened in the night. Jack follows his scent to the graveyard, but is unable to find the little boy. This old graveyard is full of old ghosts, who decide to protect the boy. Between Mr. and Mrs. Owens, a married couple who never had children, and the enigmatic Silas, Nobody Owens (Bod for short) is raised in the graveyard, and that is where the story begins.


Bod is given the run of the graveyard. He is taught tricks, such as fading, dreamwalking, and creating fear in people. Bod does not abuse these gifts and is a likeable character. He is obiedient, but also curious and adventursome. He is thoughtful, sensitive, brave, and noble. When Bod stands up to the bullies at school, and they begin to get what they deserve, I felt like whooping outloud.


The supernatural elements in this story are unique. In a time when YA literature is dominated by stories of vampires and witches, The Graveyard Book is refreshingly different. The dark quality of graveyard appeals to the YA audience, but it is the character of Bod, watching him grow up, make mistakes, and ultimately find peace and optimism that makes this book truly good. I only hope there is a sequel, I'd like to see what adventures and experiences Bod's future holds.


This book won the Newbery Medal.