The 2009 movie Coraline is a kid’s classic , but the book the movie is based on takes a darker turn, ranging from the text and the illustrations. Neil Gaiman is an English author who has written books such as, American Gods, Good Omens, Stardust, and his most known, Coraline. Gaiman is known for his short fiction books, but he also does nonfiction books, films, comic books, graphic novels, etc. 

Just like in the movie, Coraline moves into a flat apartment with her mom and dad, with neighbors, Miss Spinks and Forcible below her, as well as Mr. Bobinsky above her. As she explores the flat, she finds a door, which soon will lead her to a strange world with “other parents” that have buttons for eyes. Coraline’s a young and curious girl who wishes she had different parents who weren’t always on their laptops working. Soon she ends up getting that wish granted, but not without a sacrifice. 

If you’re into horror and good artwork, this book is for you. Not only are the illustrations of this book scary, yet beautiful, but the writing is as well. The idea of evil clones of your parents with button eyes is enough to unsettle you, but the fact that Coraline’s other parents were determined to sew buttons into her eyes makes it even scarier. “‘If you want to stay,’ said her other father, ‘there’s only one little thing we’ll have to do, so you can stay here forever and always.’” (Gaiman 43) This quote is unsettling considering the fact that Coraline’s other father says this so calmly before they present the buttons they want to sew into her eyes. 

Coraline is a wonderful short read about a fairytale gone wrong and many themes including appreciating what you have, including genres like children’s literature and horror, paranormal and fantasy fiction. A parallel universe and talking dogs and cats fill the story, as well as people with button eyes. The writing is easy to read as well as being compelling, and the illustrations help add to the text. Although this is a children’s book, it’s twisted and not for the faint of heart, but it’s a wonderful story and I’d recommend this to all young adults and adults.