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Cover of Skellig
Young Adult· United Kingdom

Skellig

by David Almond
Aggregate Editorial Score65/100
★Carnegie Medal
Published 1998186 pagesEnglish
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About This Book

When David Almond published Skellig in 1998, it quickly found its place in the broader tradition of young adult. Michael discovers a strange, fragile creature in the decaying garage of his new house—is it a man, an angel, a bird? Almond's Carnegie Medal winner is a luminous, mysterious novel about birth, death, and the presence of the extraordinary in the ordinary. Themes of angels, mystery, death run through the work. The book has received recognition from Carnegie Medal 1998.

Book Details

AuthorDavid Almond
Published1998
Country of Origin🇬🇧 United Kingdom
LanguageEnglish
Pages186
Category🌟 Young Adult
ISBN9780340944950
Editorial Score65/100
About the Category

🌟 Young Adult

Fiction and non-fiction written primarily for teenage readers.

Explore all Young Adult books →
Country of Origin

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

This book is part of United Kingdom's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from United Kingdom →

Editorial Assessment

Skellig by David Almond sits within the tradition of young adult that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1998 in United Kingdom, it engages with angels, mystery, death, friendship in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Among its recognitions: Carnegie Medal 1998. Its aggregate editorial score of 65/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. The appeal of Skellig lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of angels, mystery, death, friendship is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. Skellig reflects David Almond's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with United Kingdom's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Carnegie Medal
winner · national
199858
✍️
About the Author
David Almond
United Kingdom
View Author →

David Almond is a celebrated author from United Kingdom known for influential works of young adult.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Skellig about?

Michael discovers a strange, fragile creature in the decaying garage of his new house—is it a man, an angel, a bird? Almond's Carnegie Medal winner is a luminous, mysterious novel about birth, death, and the presence of the extraordinary in the ordinary.

Who wrote Skellig?

Skellig was written by David Almond, from United Kingdom. First published in 1998.

What awards has Skellig won?

Skellig has received the following awards and honours: Carnegie Medal 1998.

Is Skellig worth reading?

Skellig is a well-regarded book with solid critical recognition, with an aggregate editorial score of 58/100 on 50 Best Books, based on mentions across 1 editorial source. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in angels, mystery, death.

Where can I buy Skellig?

You can buy Skellig on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Skellig?

Skellig is classified as Young Adult. Fiction and non-fiction written primarily for teenage readers.

What country is Skellig from?

Skellig originates from United Kingdom's literary tradition. Explore more books from United Kingdom on our country page.

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