Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

I finally finished another book, Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs. But, because of my preconceived notions, it took me a few chapters to 'get into' the book. I heard this book was a horror novel, which almost detered me from reading it. But, it was a unique fantasy narrative blended with vintage photographs that added a chilling element to the story.

But before I discuss any further, some plot details. Jacob was a normal teenager whose grandfather, who is Jewish, told him stories from World War II. These stories eventually turned into fairy tales. The, Jacob's grandfather is murdered by a monster that is right out of the stories from Jacob's childhood. Everyone thinks that he is crazy and he gets sent to a psychiatrist. He then goes on a trip with his father to the island where his grandfather grew up during the war. Jacob meets children like his grandfather who are "peculiar" and the story twists, turns, and develops from there.

I would have enjoyed the pure narrative of this novel. But, the vintage photographs added a unique dimension. These photographs peppered throughout the novel are not random, but are what Jacob is looking at during the story. For some reason, I thought they were fake photos created for the novel. But, in the author's note in the end, Riggs states that they are all real vintage photographs. To me, this added a special touch. It makes the reader wonder who these 'peculiar' people pictured really are, what they were like, and what the true story was behind each photo.

The historical element was an added bonus as well. A decent portion of the novel is set on September 3, 194o (don't ask how this happens- just read the novel). There were many parallels between the hunting of the Jews and the hunting of the peculiar children.

Overall, I enjoyed this book and will anticipate the sequel that seems promised by the conclusion of the novel. My rating is 4.5/5 stars. No matter how slow certain parts were, it always propelled right back into the story. Also, I thought there were several underdeveloped minor plot points. But, I guess I'll just have to wait for the sequel to see if they ever get addressed!

Best Wishes and DFTBA!

Nadia

P.S.- Random note, but John Green and Ransom Riggs went to college together and remain friends. Here is a video by John discussing this. (Also, here is a rather hilarious video of a road trip they took together in college). At this time, they've been on or near the top of the New York Times Best Seller list for Children's Chapter Books for eight weeks in a row.