Signifance or Sentiment?

 

In academic circles, those that look to analyze and draw meaning from works of art and literature so that we might better understand the world, the people in it, cultures, customs, and histories. A "canon" of significance "refer[s] to that list of works we consider requisite for understanding a part of literature; that, in short, is what we must teach if we wish students to comprehend a subject" (Stevenson, 1997).

 

In reading The Graveyard Book one finds academic value in the structure of the book, complexity and simplicity of plot, development of character, abundance of themes, and the popular appeal from male and female audiences of all ages.

 

Classified as a modern fairytale with a gothic macabre tone and setting, one might argue that this story is neither realistic to relate truths nor an appropriate subject for academic settings. However, the supernatural elements serve to ignite imaginations, and unrealistic environments can be eye opening perspectives that might otherwise be overlooked.

 

For example, is it right that Bod be raised by a dead couple? Although Mr and Mrs. Owens have been married for 250 years they never had children of their own. Their state of death alone should dismiss this argument, however Bod is raised as a well adjusted youth, clothed and never goes hungry, respectful, polite, educated to the point where he seamlessly joins a middle school classroom. On the other hand, when we first meet Scarlett a normal little girl with dotting parents (mother and father), and normal home. In the second appearance, she is a discontented youth, living with her mother after her parents divorce, getting rides home from a stranger (who turns out to be a murderer).

 

Middle and high school academic literature is, for the most part, stagnant. The classics: Shakespeare, Rawls, Salinger, Hemmingway, and Twain, while important and meaningful are also safe choices. They may also be out of touch with students. "Gaiman often encounters remedial teachers who tell him how much the story appeals to 13- or 14-year-old kids who don't read well. He said not much is written at that level to keep a struggling readers' interest, and it can be rather dull" (Reading Today, 2009). Thanks to librarians and teachers with open minds, books that are relevant to today's generation are absorbed into the curriculum such as Diary of a Part-Time Indian, Perks of Being a Wallflower, and graphic novels like American Born Chinese and Persepolis.

 

Although it may not be wholly accurate, one measure of Significance is the number of awards bestowed upon an author or work of literature.Gaiman's Awards: Hugo, Bram Stoker, Nebula, Mekon, Harvey, MacMillan Silver Pen Award, Locus, Eisner, Quill Book Award for Graphic Novels, Mythopoeic Fantasy Award, Carnegie Medal, and the Newbery Medal. [Just to name a few]

 

Medals for The Graveyard Book: John Newbery Medal (2009) marking it as a outstanding contribution to American children's literature. Locus Award for best young adult book (2009). It also won the Carnegie Medal which is given by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) in 2010).

 

There is also a canon of Sentiment - The Graveyard Book has something for everyone to enjoy, "Gaiman's point is that all books are collaborative -- between a writer and the reader, and also the reader's life experience" (Reading Today, 2009). Neil Gaiman is considered a master of his craft, compelling generations of readers to delve into new worlds and be inspired. This book, if loved by its reader, has the potential to be passed down for years to come.