I listened to Neil Gaiman read this as an audiobook which was just perfect. I. Loved. This. Book.
Since discovering Charles de Lint many years ago I’ve been a huge fan of urban fantasy: where a fantastic world co-exists with ours, but we are too blind to see it.
Our hero, Richard Mayhew, finds himself in London Below, after rescuing an injured child, and before he knows it, he’s up to his neck in danger and adventure. This London is populated with ghosts, and angels, and monsters, and many unsavoury characters. But Richard also meets characters who are loyal and true - and discovers so much about himself that would never have materialised in London Above.
Gaiman paints a vivid landscape, with many London landmarks suddenly seen in a very different light. I loved how he made the familiar and ordinary, extraordinary.
I definitely recommend this to all fantasy lovers, and also to the sceptics - it could change your mind!

Neil Gaiman is the master of the short story. If you like stories that are mysterious, perplexing, and sometimes just rather odd, then this is for you. There is even a Dr Who story and a fun Sherlock Holmes adventure. Highly recommended.

Yr 7 +. Particularly good for reluctant readers. Strong character up against the odds!

Returning to his childhood hometown, the narrator remembers when he was 7 years old. A lodger stole the family car and committed suicide, unleashing a dark force that he and Lettie,( his 11 year old neighbour who seemed old beyond her years), must overcome. Haunting, spooky, & a jolly good yarn. Year 7+