Art Matters
"Art Matters" is an optional companion work. It can be read at any time, though it is usually best enjoyed after reading the first few core novels of the Short Fiction Collections and Non-Fiction.
🟡 Optional side story — not required for main plot
This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.
Verdict Insight: While this novella provides deeper world-building, it is a standalone story and can be read at any stage.
What You Need To Be Warm
Book #8 of 8 in Series
Complete Series Reading Order
Publication Order
Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.
Chronological Order
May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.
Order Confidence
Why this order?
Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.
Why This Order Is Confusing
Many reading lists for Short Fiction Collections and Non-Fiction conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I skip reading Art Matters?
This is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not strictly necessary to follow the main plot.
Can I read Art Matters before The View From The Cheap Seats?
Yes. Art Matters is an optional side story and can be read at any time without spoiling the main series plot.
Is Art Matters required reading for the Short Fiction Collections and Non-Fiction?
No, it is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not essential to the central storyline.
What comes after Art Matters in the reading order?
The next recommended book after Art Matters is What You Need To Be Warm (Book #8).
More by Neil Gaiman
Spawn Origins Collection 2
2010
Neil Gaiman Young Readers' Collection (Coraline / Fortunately, The Milk / Graveyard Book / Odd And The Frost Giants)
2014
The Year's Best Fantasy And Horror--ninth Annual Collection
2021
The Neil Gaiman Audio Collection (Cinnamon / Crazy Hair / Day I Swapped My Dad For Two Goldfish / Wolves In The Walls
2004