2¢ Worth: Back when I saw Coraline the film for the first time I remember thinking, "Goodness this weird and creepy. I don't see why people like it so much." Then recently, under the recommendation of Books for Ears, I decided to try Coraline the audiobook. What I found is that Coraline IS creepy but in good, hard to stop listening, full of subtle messages sort of way. Neil's story telling of a girl who inadvertently brings darkness upon her family and how she goes about saving them is captivating.
Words aloud: Coraline is read by the author himself Neil Gaiman. Even though Coraline is a first-person story read by an adult male, Neil does a fantastic job reading it. I found myself excited to hear more. As only the author can do, he knew exactly what parts to emphasize and how to sing the scary little tune the rats chant. He even rocks the voices of the other characters. Honestly, it felt like listening to a scary story by a bonfire.
Wooed: I adored the pompous proud cat and his ingenious quips. Something he was robbed of in the film.
Whippersnappers: Had I listened to Coraline as a child, it probably would have scared the daylights out of me. Therefore, I recommend parents listen to Coraline first before deciding to share it with their children. This will help each person decide if their little one is brave enough to handle the spirits and monsters. When Neil was asked if the book is for children or adults here is what he answered:
"If it has to be put into a box that's the sort of stuff you'd find in the box it goes into: books with young protagonists, with stories that children enjoy and that adults enjoy and they seem to be enjoying different things. As a general sort of rule, kids seem to read it as an adventure. Adults get nightmares. Does that help?"
Word to the wise: This is a perfectly eerie quickie for those looking for something Halloweenesque or for a short interesting audio.
What about the film?: Ah the film. So many unnecessary changes and additions. In some ways the film is creepier. In other ways it isn't creepy enough. One thing I do know for sure, the audiobook is WAY better and more entertaining. This is one of those of cases where I believe the audio is the best format to enjoy this story. Why you ask? Because it leaves the visuals up to your imagination.
Wind-up: Coraline is a novella written by Neil Gaiman. The audiobook is read by the author and consists of 3 discs (3 hours and 36 mins). Audiobook rating: 4 stars. Narrator rating: 5 stars.
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