logo

79 pages 2 hours read

Neverwhere

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1996

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.

Book Brief

logo
Neil Gaiman

Neverwhere

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1996
Book Details
Pages

388

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London Below • Contemporary

Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman follows Richard Mayhew, a Londoner who helps an injured girl named Door, unknowingly thrusting himself into the hidden world of London Below. As Richard assists Door in uncovering the truth behind her family's murder, he navigates a series of dangerous and fantastical encounters, ultimately leading him to transform and reevaluate his true self and life in London Above. The book includes themes of family tragedy, violence, and stalking.

Mysterious

Dark

Fantastical

Suspenseful

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.3

574,905 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere is a highly imaginative urban fantasy that enchants readers with its richly developed London Below and compelling characters. Critics praise its originality and vivid world-building, though some find the plot pacing uneven. Overall, it remains a fan favorite for its dark, whimsical charm despite minor narrative flaws.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Neverwhere?

Readers who enjoy urban fantasy, dark fairy tales, and rich, imaginative storytelling will be captivated by Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere. Fans of Harry Potter, American Gods, and The Night Circus will appreciate the intricate world-building and blend of the magical with the mundane in this modern classic.

4.3

574,905 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Richard Mayhew

A mild-mannered man who becomes the unlikely hero of the story after being drawn into the mysterious and dangerous world of London Below following an act of kindness.

Richard’s fiancée at the beginning of the story, whose concern for prestige and style reveals her superficial nature.

A young woman from the House of Arch with the ability to open passages, who becomes Richard's guide and ally in London Below.

A pair of violent and ruthless assassins with contrasting personalities, hired to pursue Door.

A shrewd and enigmatic character who helps Door and Richard, navigating alliances with a transactional mindset.

A renowned bodyguard known for slaying mythic creatures, hired to protect Door on her journey.

A complex and secretive character whose past actions have significant implications for the unfolding events in the story.

Book Details
Pages

388

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London Below • Contemporary

Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.