Stuff I Read: Stardust by Neil Gaiman

A lovelorn young man embarks on a quest to do the impossible to win his lady’s heart, only to uncover a hidden family history and a world of wonder. He then finds himself embroiled in a dispute over the throne of a magical kingdom while being pursued by witches who desire something valuable in his possession. Love makes you chase the stars in Neil Gaiman’s classic 2001 fairy tale, Stardust.

Stardust follows Tristran Thorn, a boy growing up in the town of Wall. Wall is so named for the literal stone wall that borders a magical forest, and neither the people of the town nor the inhabitants of the forest can cross. Once a year, however, the forest dwellers come to the border to sell their wares: charms, spells, and mystical doohickeys. This year, Tristran seeks to woo Veronica, the most beautiful woman in Wall. Veronica, however, isn’t quite as enamored and views Tristran as a friend, sort of. On a night where the two were out stargazing, they see a star fall beyond the border of the town, and Victoria sets a challenge for Tristran. Bring back the star, and she will be his wife. As Tristran ventures into the magical world beyond the wall, he encounters witches, faerie, and a beautiful woman in white who challenges everything he knows about his past, himself, and love.

Neil Gaiman presents a world that’s both fantastical and relatable. It’s as if the inhabitants casually live in this magical reality and dares anyone to do something about it. The characters are well-realized, and the story has a fun and whimsical air about it. It’s short, too, and can be burned through in an afternoon (or, since this is a fairy tale, a couple of children’s bedtimes).

The downside is that even with some adult events happening, everything about this feels like a kids’ book. The villains are cackling and moustache-twirling, and everyone’s motivations are incredibly straightforward, lacking the complexities in Gaiman’s later works. However, since this is branded as a fairy tale, it’s safe to reason that this is by design.

Stardust is an incredibly fun read for all ages, a good way to pass a rainy day. It’s definitely worth it if you stumble across a copy.

Pros: Fun and fantastical kid’s story, quick and easy read.

Cons: Characters are simpler than in other Gaiman stories.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars.