Neil Gaiman is an unmatched master of atmosphere; minimal but effective description is given throughout the story, and efficiently establishes a lingering tone. Coraline is not a long book; at approximately 175 pages, time is not wasted with long-winded description, and yet no sacrifice is made in regards to its quality.

Tone is an integral part of this story; from the creepy and unsettling quasi-horror elements, to the playful and youthful nostalgia of exploring the unknown, Coraline excels in keeping its readers engaged in the world it has created.

At multiple times throughout the book, I had to double check and reassure myself that I was reading fiction and not a children's literature; this, however, did not detract from the story. Coraline is a young girl, and the story should accurately reflect her age.

This may be my favorite read of the year to date.