Kids

8 Neil Gaiman Books Kids Can Get Into If They Love The Sandman

by Kevyn Gohu
September 13, 2022

If the kids are watching “The Sandman” on Netflix, consider it an opportunity to get them to read more of Neil Gaiman’s books.

The Sandman, although receiving some mixed reviews, opens the doors to many of Neil Gaiman’s other books for its watchers. Many love Neil Gaiman’s writing style with how he paints a picture with words and how his depiction of the divine is more complex and beyond human understanding. With kids getting into The Sandman, now’s the chance to get them into reading books starting with Neil Gaiman’s other novels.

1. Norse Mythology

One of his most recent works, Neil Gaiman writes about the different adventures of the Norse gods in his book Norse Mythology. Some even include Thor crossdressing as a woman, the building of the wall, Loki’s trickster adventures, and a whole lot more. It’s quite amusing to read, too, especially if the images of Thor and Loki in their heads are still Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston. They’ll definitely find it more interesting than an encyclopedia for sure.

2. Good Omens

Good Omens is an interesting take where Good and Evil have an adventure together. Neil Gaiman reveals in this book how complex human morality is but in an easier-to-digest way. The story focuses on a demon named Crowley and an angel named Aziraphale as they try to stop the Antichrist and Armageddon.

3. American Gods

It’s quite a long book but it’s such a good read that they won’t notice how thick the book is. The story focuses on a convict named Shadow Moon who is released from prison to attend his wife’s funeral. However, he is offered a job by a man who goes by the name Mr. Wednesday, revealing that there’s a battle between two sets of divinities: the Old Gods like Odin, Thor, etc. and the New Gods — Mr. World, The Black Hats, Media, etc. Quite relatable as it reflects how the world is today.

4. Anansi Boys

For kids who love the criminal thriller-type stories, Neil Gaiman’s book, the Anansi Boys, talks about two brothers, Charlie and Spider, who meet after their father “Mr. Nancy” (AKA the reincarnation of the West African trickster god Anansi) dies. This is Neil Gaiman’s retelling of the Spider Stories where the Tiger is the actual owner. Not the Sky God.

5. Coraline

The mind-boggling Coraline is a story about a child who finds frustration with adults and sometimes, her parents. Only to find herself dealing with another woman also known as The Beldam who appears to be a loving mother but whose love has deteriorated into obsession.

6. Neverwhere

This Neil Gaiman book tells the story of Richard Mayhew, a businessman looking forward to his normal life ahead. However, things get topsy turvy as he is dragged to the world known as London Below. Neil Gaiman also planned a sequel, titled “How The Marquis Got His Coat Back”, which was edited by Game of Thrones writer, George R.R. Martin.

7. Stardust

For those who want something more epic and medieval, Stardust is considered to be a little different compared to Neil Gaiman’s other novels. It reflects the fantasy of the old Celtic times, bringing to life many Faeries and their tales.

8. The Graveyard Book

The Graveyard Book traces the story of a boy named Nobody “Bod” Owens. He is adopted and raised by the supernatural occupants of a graveyard after his family is brutally murdered. It’s definitely an interesting read!

An opportunity to get kids to read.

One of the most frustrating ventures of any modern parent is getting their kids to read books. But sometimes, it takes the right author and story-telling to get the job done. The Sandman is just one of Neil Gaiman’s most beloved books and comics. Engaging them with his other novels might make them more open to other authors and stories. And not to worry — a lot of these books are available in your neighborhood bookstore.