Coraline

Of all the books we’ve read this semester, Coraline is my absolute favorite. I read the entire book in one sitting wondering what would happen next. The suspense was most appealing to me as reader, as was the realistic and age appropriate dialogue. Her age, although not explicity stated, is displayed through her interactions with the other characters. For example, she shows her creativity and intelligence by challenging her “other mother” to the game. I was a bit confused when she then asks the other mother where she should start looking for her parents. Why would she do this? Was she trying to mislead her or did she actually think the mother would help her? Through the entire novel I was never sure what to expect and that kept me interested. Compared to Skellig, the characters in Coraline were better developed and easier to connect and sympathize with, making the reading more enjoyable. I found the talking animals very entertaining, especially the sarcastic and snotty cat and the sophisticated Scottish terriers. I did not like the illustrations, however. The first and last ones were alright, but the others were extremely creepy, especially pages 22 and 68. Certainly there were some scary parts in the book, but the illustrations were bizarre. I really think I could have done without them. While reading, I was thinking I wished I knew a kid who I could give this book to. I would have really enjoyed reading this as a child.

Skelig (first half)

I like this story it is very mysterious. No one knows if Michael's baby sister will get better and Dr. Death comes to check on her. When Michael finds Skelig he is not afraid. You get the feeling he is an angel when they talk about how he has wings, but I am not so sure. On page 38-39 there is an interesting passage about wings, "They say that shoulder blades are where your wings were, when you were an angel. They say they're where your wings will grow again one day." This is very interesting. I like this explanationa nd I think children would liek it too. I think Skelig is just what Michael may have needed because he was so depressed. So maybe Skelig is an angel to help Michael. What do you think?
I think this book is very enjoyable so far. There are many intriguing elements that make you want to keep reading. I think some older children would be able to relate somehow to the characters like Mina. She helps Michael to try and figure out what to do about Skelig. This book also has a good sense of family because they all stick together with everything going on with the baby. What do you think abou the book?