The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

Delightful in a macabre and magical way. Gaiman writes intricately and coldly. The story of Nobody Owens being raised by ghosts in a graveyard and hunted by a mysterious man named Jack is brilliantly told, subtly poignant, and matter-of-factly ethereal. Perfect for Halloween.

Nobody, the main character, is born into the modern world but raised by ancient spirits whose lives ended in a world that no longer exists except in the stagnant minds of those who died by plagues and witch trials. The unusual mix of time periods within this novel is unusual and exciting. The language, historical events, and cultures dance through the story like the floating, elusive ghosts themselves.

Thank you, Neil Gaiman, for re-imagining ghosts, for the word plays, and quirky personalities put into words. Thank you for the unexpected heroes, magic, and descriptions.