The Graveyard Book volume 2 by Neil Gaiman
Graphic adaptation by P. Craig Russell. Ill. by David Lafuente, P.
Craig Russell, Scott Hampton, Kevin Nowlan, Galen Showman.
Bloomsbury, 2014. ISBN 9781408859001
(Age:Upper primary+) Volume 2 of the graphic version of The
Graveyard Bookfollows on from the first, again showcasing the
work of a different illustrator for each chapter. The central
character, Bod has grown up within the safety and confines of the
graveyard away from the sinister 'Jack' who murdered his family. Now
as he grows older he questions his restricted life and ventures
outside to try and live like a normal human being. Not surprisingly
he finds it difficult to fit in and the first chapter, illustrated
by David Lafuente, vividly involves us in Bod's intervention in the
actions of a pair of school bullies. The powerful graphics enhance
the action and make the supernatural sequences stand out. The change
of style in the next two chapters to a more realistic form of
illustration, adjusts our perspective and the story settles down to
resolve the mystery of the killer 'Jack' and tie up the loose ends
of the story.
Like the first volume, this will be welcomed by fans of graphic
novels, Gaiman and The Graveyard Book but it also is
engaging enough to stand alone and find a wide readership from upper
primary onwards.
Sue Speck