The Graveyard Book Quotes

Find the perfect quote to float your boat. Shmoop breaks down key quotations from The Graveyard Book.

Death Quotes

The knife had done almost everything it was brought to that house to do, and both the blade and the handle were wet. (1.2)

Community Quotes

“Mrs. Owens and her husband have taken the child under their protection. It will take more than just a couple of good hearted souls to raise this child. It will,” said Silas, “take a graveyar...

Good vs. Evil Quotes

Jack leaned over, raised his right hand, the one holding the knife, and he aimed for the chest… … and then he lowered his hand. The shape in the crib was a teddy bear. There was no child. (1.10)

Youth Quotes

“We never had a child,” said his wife. “And his mother wants us to protect him. Will you say yes?” (1.54)

Memory and the Past Quotes

“Where did you hear about the Romans,” asked her father. “Everybody know,” replied Scarlett, with withering scorn. “There were Celts,” said her mother. “They were here first. They go...

Compassion and Forgiveness Quotes

In a voice like the chiming of a hundred tiny silver bells she said only, “The dead should have charity.” And she smiled. (1.161)

The Supernatural Quotes

He couldn’t push the minds of the dead as he could the living, but he could use all the tools of flattery he possessed, for the dead are not immune to either. (1.112)

Fate and Free Will Quotes

He was surprised when he hit the floor, but he did not cry out: if you cried they came and put you back in your crib. (1.18)

Strength and Skill Quotes

Some skills can be attained by education, and some by practice, and some by time. Those skills will come if you study. Soon enough you will master Fading and Sliding and Dreamwalking. (2.10)