Y9T3 - English Reading Response: Tunnel of Bones

Reflect on what you think society can learn through the reading of your novel.

"Tunnel of Bones" by V. E. Schwab offers readers a unique blend of supernatural adventure and heartfelt lessons that can resonate deeply with society. Through the experiences of Cassidy Blake and her ghostly friend; Jacob, the novel bestows several valuable insights. These valuable insights include; understanding and empathy, facing fears, the value of friendship and many more!

1. Understanding and empathy - one of the central themes of "Tunnel of Bones" is the importance of understanding and empathy. Cassidy’s interactions with ghosts teach readers to look beyond the surface and understand deeper motivations and emotions, fostering a sense of compassion.

2. Facing fears - another central theme of "Tunnel of Bones" is the significance of facing fears. Cassidy’s bravery in confronting dangers shows that courage is about being there in the presence of known danger (despite fearing for one's life), inspiring readers to face their own challenges with resilience.

3. The value of friendship - finally, the last major theme of the novel is the value of friendship. The bond between Cassidy and Jacob highlights the importance of supportive relationships, reminding readers to nurture meaningful connections amongst their closest peers.

Explain the central theme of the novel and how it is explored. Consider why you think the author wanted to address this theme. Be specific about the theme.

The central theme of the novel is learning to let go and move on as the narrative focuses on a French poltergeist who can’t let go of his past life after dying a horrible death in the Paris catacombs. The term “poltergeist” combines the German words “Polter” (knocking) and “Geist” (spirit), reflecting the spirit’s behavior. Throughout the novel, Cassidy Blake, her ghost friend Jacob, and Lara (an experienced ghost hunter) work together to appease the poltergeist, Thomas, by reminding him of his past life. The author addresses the theme of letting go because holding onto grudges can lead to stress, health issues, and a loss of personality. By exploring this theme, the novel highlights the importance of moving on from past traumas to prevent them from negatively impacting one’s life.

Who is the protagonist and who (or what) is the antagonist in your novel? Explain the way the relationship between these two forces develops in the novel.

The protagonist of “Tunnel of Bones” is Cassidy Blake. Cassidy is a young girl with the unique ability to see and interact with ghosts. She travels with her parents, who are filming a TV show about haunted locations, and her ghostly best friend, Jacob.

The primary antagonist in the novel is a French poltergeist named "Thomas Alain Laurent" (pronunciation: TOE-Mahs) that Cassidy accidentally awakens in the Paris Catacombs. This poltergeist is a powerful and malevolent spirit that causes chaos and poses a significant threat to Cassidy and the citizens residing with the city of Paris.

The relationship between Cassidy and the poltergeist develops from an accidental awakening to a dangerous conflict, and finally to a resolution through understanding and bravery. This dynamic drives the narrative and highlights Cassidy’s journey as the protagonist of the novel.

What does the life thread represent (figuratively)?

The life thread represents a spirit's past life (before they died and then linger in the world of mortals). Those who live in the world of mortals are called "physical inhabitants". Those who live in the world of spirits are called "spirits" or "the veilless" (this is because the entities that reside in this realm have no attachment to the physical world nor do they have an attachment to flesh). However, those who can reside in both realms are called "wanderers" and they live in the "in-between". The "in-between" is a realm where ghosts and humans (could potentially) co-exist together, however, it is usually a place for malevolent ghouls and harmful demons as the "in-between" is both (described by the novel) "forebidding" and "foreboding". The life thread is connected to the three different dimensions because those who live in the world of mortals have their life threads concealed by flesh. Whereas, those who reside in the world of the dead have their life threads open and ajar. Yet, those who can reside in both worlds (or even reside within the "in-between) have their life threads at risk because once they're pulled out; 1) the spirit's life thread vanishes (alongside their spiritual self) & 2) the human's life thread will be crushed (and their body will deteriorate at an alarming rate).