You know those over-sized costume masks that look like a baby’s head? Like what Hazel and Cha Cha wear in Umbrella Academy. This story is the literary equivalent to one of those masks. You’re looking at something that should seem sweet and innocent but instead it makes you feel nervous and afraid.
“No matter how bleak or dire, end-of-the-world scenarios appeal to us because we take meaning from the end… there’s also undeniable allure to witnessing the beginning of the end and perishing alone with everyone and everything else.”
7 year old Wen is playing in a field by herself while her two daddies hang out inside their vacation cabin. Wen is approached by a stranger — a big friendly man who just wants to talk. Until he’s suddenly forcing himself into her cabin, along with 3 others, and very politely explaining what they need to do to prevent the end of the world.
THIS BOOK IS SO STRESSFUL. I mean, just to start — you’ve got two dads trying to protect their daughter from 4 maniacs who’ve busted into their home and taken them hostage. But also — the strangers are telling this story and it seems crazy but they don’t seem that crazy and if what they’re saying is true — then something needs to be done.
I am not going to say anything else but I highly recommend this to horror fans. It’s not as good as Tremblay’s A Head Full of Ghosts but honestly that book still haunts me so maybe it’s good that this one isn’t quite at that level….