Neil Gaiman's Surprising Take on the Mowgli Story
check_circlePros
- Gaiman's world-building is meticulous and immersive, drawing you into the world of the jungle and its inhabitants.
- The characters are complex and multi-dimensional, with Mowgli being a particularly compelling and relatable protagonist.
- The themes of identity, community, and the struggle between nature and civilization are timely and thought-provoking.
- The writing is as evocative as ever, with Gaiman's use of language painting vivid pictures in your mind's eye.
- The story is full of unexpected twists and turns, keeping you on the edge of your seat and guessing until the very end.
- Gaiman's take on the Mowgli story is a unique and refreshing spin on a classic tale.
- The book's dark and unsettling tone adds depth and complexity to the story, making it a compelling read.
cancelCons
- The pacing can be a bit slow at times, which may test the patience of some readers.
- Some of the supporting characters feel a bit one-dimensional and underdeveloped.
- The themes of colonialism and oppression may be uncomfortable for some readers, but they add depth and complexity to the story.
- The book's tone can be quite dark and unsettling at times, which may not be suitable for all audiences.
- The ending feels a bit rushed and convenient, which may leave some readers feeling unsatisfied.
- Some readers may find the book's themes and tone a bit too intense or overwhelming.
- The book's length can be a bit daunting, clocking in at around 400 pages.
















Editor's Summary
Neil Gaiman's take on the Mowgli story is a thought-provoking, darkly beautiful tale that'll leave you questioning the nature of humanity. With its atmospheric setting and complex characters, this book is a must-read for fans of fantasy and adventure. Gaiman's writing is as evocative as ever, transporting you to the depths of the jungle and the hearts of its inhabitants. While some may find the pacing a bit slow, the payoff is well worth the investment. You'll be on the edge of your seat, guessing until the very end.
Specifications
This book's design really caught my eye - the cover is stunning, even if it's a bit soft to the touch. There are plenty of decorations, flourishes, and other details that make it stand out:
I've always associated Neil Gaiman with darker, more mystical themes, and not exactly kid-friendly stuff. His books like American Gods, and some of his short stories, can be pretty intense.
But this book is actually about a young boy who loses his family at a very early age and ends up living on a cemetery. It sounds pretty dark, right? But don't worry, this kid's story is actually about finding a new family and learning to navigate the world around him.
The old city cemetery is teeming with all sorts of characters: ghosts, vampires, werewolves! They're all super colorful and interesting in their own ways. Our protagonist, Owen, meets a bunch of these mystical creatures, disturbs an old god in his tomb, learns a thing or two, finds new friends, battles an old enemy, goes through all sorts of adventures, and eventually grows up.
This story is a lot like the Mowgli tale - it's about the importance of family and friendship, and how growing up is all about learning to adapt and find your place in the world.
I can see why some people might be hesitant to give this book to kids, given its spooky first impression. But that's exactly why it's perfect for kids - and for adults who want to remember what it's like to be a kid and experience the magic of the world around them.




