One major theme in this story that exemplifies the fact that Coraline gained a new appreciation for her regular life, is family. Specifically, learning to appreciate what family you already have, instead of wishing for another. Coraline achieves this new appreciation through everything she has to encounter, such as the other world as a whole, the setting, and symbolism. 

    One way in which the theme of appreciation is developed is through Coraline’s experiences in the Other world. At first, Coraline is excited by the other world and the other mother, who promises her everything she has ever wanted. However, as she explores the other world, Coraline begins to realize that it is not what it seems. He other mother, who initially appears loving and kind, is revealed to be manipulative and cruel. She wants to trap Coraline in the Other world and replace her eyes with buttons, so she can keep her forever.

Coraline’s experiences in the other world make her appreciate the safety and love of her real home. For example, when Coraline returns home from the other world, she is relieved to find her parents safe and sound. She realizes how much she loves and needs her family, and this makes her appreciate them more. Her experiences in the other world also make her appreciate the value of honesty, courage, and loyalty. For instance, when she becomes friends with the cat, she learns that she cannot trust everyone, and she must be brave and stand up for herself and her family.

    The setting in the story also contributes to the theme of appreciation. The real world in the novel is presented as dull and ordinary, with gray skies and boring scenery. This makes the Other world, with its bright colors and fantastic creatures, seem all the more appealing to Coraline. However, as Coraline explores the Other world, she realizes that it is not perfect, and its flaws become very apparent. Though the setting in the other world is very appealing to Coraline, it is unsettling, with twisted trees and strange creatures. This contrast between the two worlds proves the idea that home and family are invaluable and irreplaceable. Coraline learns that her mundane world is beautiful in its own way, and she comes to appreciate it more.

    Symbolism is also used throughout the novel to develop the theme of appreciation. For instance, the buttons that the other mother wants to sew into Coraline’s eyes symbolize her loss of identity. The other mother also wants to turn Coraline into a doll without any flaws or individuality. The buttons are also used to represent the other mothers control over Coraline, as she wants to control everything about her, including her physical appearance. The buttons are a powerful symbol that represents the loss of freedom and the importance of being true to oneself.