David Almond’s six books have been praised for their lyrical prose, their evocative use of magical realism, and their sensitive male and strong female characters. His work has garnered several prestigious literary awards, including the Carnegie Medal, the Whitbread Children’s Book of the Year Award, and the Michael L. Printz Award. Clearly, Almond is a significant talent in the world of young adult literature who has, in a short time, gained an impressive amount of recognition, but, to date, little critical commentary devoted to Almond’s works has appeared. Given the high regard accorded Almond’s work and his regular output over the last five years, it is appropriate that this book-length critical study of his works is published.
David Almond: Memory and Magic discusses how Almond’s major themes relate specifically to the development of selfhood in his adolescent characters, and explores the four major themes that are evident in all of his works: magical realism, death, memory, and imagination. A chronology, extensive bibliography, afterword, and index round out this text that serves as a resource for scholars and students of young adult fiction, as well as teachers and librarians who work with young adults, ultimately helping to foster among young people a deeper appreciation for Almond’s work as a literary artist.