A Novel by Mark Haddon
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Character Analysis
The protagonist and narrator of this novel is Christopher Boone. Christopher is a fifteen-year old guy who is very intelligent. It is difficult to further describe Christopher, for he is a very complex character. The reader can reason that Christopher has Aspergers Syndrome. Throughout the novel, the reader learns more of Christopher's character, as he uncovers the truth to a murder, aces his A-level math exam, and runs away to London. The victim of the murder is Christopher's neighbor's dog. Christopher likes dogs. On page six, Christopher says, "I cared about dogs because they were faithful and honest, and some dogs were cleverer and more interesting than some people." Often, Christopher struggles to interact well with people. Christopher pursues A-level mathematics because he has a passion for the subject. Christopher often works out complex problems and thoughts. Christopher runs away to London to find his mother. This is a very pivotal experience.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time Official Trailer
Development
Setting is an important element in the development of this novel. Much the novel is circumscribed to Swindon, the small town in which Christopher lives. Toward the end of the novel, Christopher runs away to London and the setting is switched. Christopher is fearful of and easily overwhelmed by the unfamiliar. Christopher steps out of his comfort zone. This is a pivotal experience. On page two-hundred and twenty-one, this is shown when Christopher say's "And I know I can do this because I went to London on my own." Christopher gained confidence. Imagery is also an important element in the development of this novel. Christopher is the narrator of this novel. Through Christopher's use of imagery, the reader gains a better understanding of him. Christopher teaches the reader about him through his thoughts.
Evaluation
I would recommend this novel, for I enjoyed reading it. It is well written. Mark Haddon effectively brings Christopher Boone to life, placing the reader in Christopher's thoughts. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a very unique novel.