Review: The Ocean at the End of the Lane

Part Narnia, part Wonderland, part Oz, The Ocean at the End of the Lane is an imaginative tale of universal themes. Author Neil Gaiman introduces the narrator’s seven-year-old self to the cosmic battle of good and evil. At many points in the boy’s fantastical adventure among timeless creatures, he asks himself and his good friend Lettie, “Are you afraid?” He begins thinking only small children like himself feel fear and ends knowing even grownups are sometimes afraid. He also learns how to face and surmount fears. This story, descriptions, child’s perspectives, and symbolism are brilliant! It’s a fascinating tale that will draw you in. I listened to Neil Gaiman’s recording of this story on CD; I highly recommend the audio version.