I see a lot of themes including the modern myth/fable, juxtoposition of the present and past, adult vs child, mortal vs immortal, but aside from larger themes, what makes Neil Gaiman a great writer? I notice a certain tingly feeling when reading a good story, and this happens a lot when reading his work, but for some reason the plot and events seem the most memorable, even though it was driven by characters and dialog. I guess I'm asking, what is so compelling about the characters and the way they speak? Why do they seem so multidimensional, memorable, and real?

Also, what makes other writers not pull off the same sense of well written characterization? You can find writers who create a grand "all the gods meet" story that feels bland and melodramatic, or a story with characters who are supposed to act and speak realistic but seem flat and tedious. So in comparison to bad writers, what bad writing techniques does Gaiman avoid?

Hmm...interesting question. I feel that the real secret to Mr Gaiman's success is that he knows and adheres to the rule that 'less is essentially more' and he's aware, as were all other great writers before him, that the devil is in the details, so a sketch is often more compelling than an over-wrought portrait. Also, he seems to be almost lacking in arrogance and narcissism, which is rare in writers, and creative people in general. He is, also, as he has been called, 'a treasure-house of story' meaning that he has such a wealth of material to draw upon stored in his head that it's mind-boggling. Just my humble opinions.

His books take you with them. With warmth and eccentricity. They're not "had to be there books" you were there! Or want to be. And I have no idea how he does it. In a way its like he's talking when he writes, which is why I guess his stuff works so well on audio. We need some brains in here! (I not too clever!)

I don't know about the narcissism bit though - my outspoken daughter says he talks about himself too much and not to ask him questions because he goes on and on! I think that's a plus!

I think for me what it comes down to is how he can make something extraordinary and unreal as someone coming back from the dead make so much sense, and make something as innocuous as a dream so utterly deep, terrifying and awe-inspiring. I could have probably phrased it better, but that is the gist of it.

His technique is miles above any writer I know. Only Ray Bradbury writes better. And he takes the most audacious ideas and makes them seem real.