By
Neil Gaiman & Dave
McKean
This book perfectly
fulfills its purpose - a children's book. In my opinion, the perfect
children's book is unique, beautiful to look at, and appealing to children
without being condescending. This fulfills those sublimely, while also
featuring creative talent that is appealing to adults as well.
I recently bought this book, thus completing my collection of Gaiman/McKean collaborations. Gaiman, the writer, and McKean, the artist, have been working together for two decades. Their most famous work was The Sandman, a 75-issue graphic novel acclaimed for its sophisticated characters and generous literary and fantasy allusions. Gaiman wrote Sandman, and McKean provided covers for the entire series. The two also worked together on such books as Signal to Noise, Mr. Punch, and Black Orchid, all of which were fully illustrated by McKean. Goldfish is their first work for children.
McKean's artwork gives Goldfish its sophistication and respectability; Gaiman's story gives it its charm and character. The artwork is a unique combination of line drawing, painting, photography and assemblages, with a little computer art thrown in. McKean's skill lies in his sparing use of each element. The artwork breathes easily and at no time feels overwhelming. The highlight for me is his linework - as a master draftsman, McKean knows enough to let his drawings emerge quickly and take on a life of their own without controlling them too much. Gaiman's story follows a typical child's quest with a repetition motif, but his skill lies in his charming dialogue and, most noticeably here, fantastic throwaway gags. Gaiman, as always, creates a world much like our own but teetering on the edge of the mythical and outrageous. The unusual becomes the usual, as it often is in kid's minds; the young boy protagonist sees nothing odd about trading his dad to his friend or accidentally visiting the Queen of Melanesia.
In many ways, both the creators are ideally suited for producing work for children. Both the art and writing are childlike but professional in their freshness and spontaneity. They don't hold back the truth for kids, and there is always a slightly darker edge lurking just below the surface. Kids pick up on this, and they appreciate the honesty. You'll appreciate it too.