Spoiler-Free Blog
If you’re looking for your next quick, absorbing read that you can finish in just a couple sittings (maybe even faster if you’re under a particularly cozy blanket during a thunderstorm), then The Ocean at the End of the Lane is for you.
What’s The Ocean at the End of the Lane about?
A middle-aged man suddenly remembers the strange, magical happenings he experienced as a child when he returns to visit the house at the end of the lane from his childhood home.
This short, nostalgic read is just right.
My only previous exposure to Neil Gaiman’s work was Coraline – and I have to say, after reading this, I’m developing a clear understanding of his themes.
- A childhood POV that feels genuine, and harkens us back? Check.
- A creepy adult woman (who’s not really a human) with sinister intentions toward said child? Check.
- Strange magic which can both get you into and out of trouble? Check.
- A mix of creep and whimsy? Double check.
This book is unique and a bit strange. It’s just begging for an animated on-screen adaptation. It so skillfully captures the childhood of someone who’s introverted, bookish, distrusting of the adults in his life, and looking for a bit of magic. And yet, this book isn’t for children, but I can’t also say it’s just for adults.
The main character is average. He doesn’t even have a name in this story – which I didn’t notice until after finishing it. He could be anybody, and I really think that enhances the story. He’s not very unique, he’s not very interesting; he’s just a person. It gives us the sense that magic could happen to anyone who looks for it.
And the Hempstock women. They were wonderful, brave, strong, and generous. If there were no magic in this story, I think they would’ve provided some just by being who they were.
I really enjoyed this read, and I look forward to reading more of Gaiman’s work to see how they compare.
Should you read The Ocean at the End of the Lane?
This is for you if you enjoy quick, creepy reads and soft magic systems that don’t get bogged down with rules and explanations. It would make a great fall or Halloween read.
You may not like it as much if you prefer to have everything spelled out by the end, or fleshed-out world-building. It’s more open-ended than that. This is more like a fairy tale than what you might consider “true fantasy.” Think magical realism.
It also may not be for you if you don’t enjoy bittersweet endings. Personally, I think it added to the magic of this particular story.
