A Book A Week

"I wasn't sure if I wanted to hear such a big secret. It might not fit in my head and then it would spill out everywhere."

A Head Full of Ghosts begins as many horror stories do. The Barrett family is a pretty normal group. Mom, Dad, and sisters Marjorie and Merry live a peaceful life in their suburban home. Things change when older sister Marjorie begins to exhibit odd behavior. The doctors and specialists can't seem to find a medical explanation for her condition. Dad turns to the church and becomes convinced that Marjorie is possessed by a demon.

Given their unusual circumstance, the Barrett family does what any American family would do. They cash in on their troubles by allowing a television crew to film their life and attempts at exorcism for a reality show. What ensues is the tragic erosion of a once happy family. The parents don't agree on how to approach treatment for Marjorie, Merry is ignored by the rest of her family, and Marjorie is pushed to physical and emotional limits. Is the girl truly possessed, or is the Barrett family merely enacting a hoax for financial gain?

A Head Full of Ghosts is a refreshing addition to the horror genre. Paul Tremblay writes with a self-awareness that gives an original perspective to an otherwise familiar story. Tremblay clearly has an extensive knowledge and appreciation for all things horror. There is nothing overtly shocking or gory about this book. Rather, the story unfolds with a slow build that gives just enough suspense to keep us hanging onto every word. I like my horror stories to make me think and fill with dread. By that mark, A Head Full of Ghosts is an excellent novel that will leave you with an anxious paranoia of every little bump in the night.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.

(2017, 13)