K.O. Munley

I began this book while sitting in a jury waiting room after having been called to take part in jury selection (just doing my duty), and was swept away by the story of Richard, Door, and the rest of the under-Londoners.

Mr. Gaiman himself handled the reading of the audiobook, calling it “the author's preferred text” so I have no idea if that means unabridged, added-on to, or whatever. Not that I minded, his characterizations were wonderful. The mystery of who was pulling the strings played out beautifully as I was unable to guess which characters were involved in which things until the end. I wish I could be more descriptive, but I don't want to spoil anything.

On the whole, another great story from Mr. Gaiman.

One of the most beautiful and fascinating books I can remember owning as a child. My brother and I flipped through this book so many times that the spine glue wore out and we'd have to shuffle through the pages like an unbound manuscript, but that didn't prevent us from going back time and again to read the story and stare at the illustrations. This is one of the books I want to share with my own children someday.

If you grew up in the 80's, this book is both wish-fulfillment for your former child-self and a trip down memory lane. One of the best science fiction books of 2011, don't miss this one. Think Ender's Game meets the Thursday Next novels in 80's geek and chic culture.

The writing is brisk and the characters are well developed. Don't be surprised when you find yourself really rooting on Wade in his quest or wishing that the story could keep going on and on.