The Basic Book Bitches

Review by Emily

“There are so many types of horror movies and different ways of approaching them. My favorites are like fever dreams that on the surface defy the logic of our everyday yet, somehow, expose what’s really underneath. Those movies are so real-like, too real- and as disturbing as that can be, it feels kind of, I don’t know, wonderful.”

In this succinct horror novel by Paul Tremblay, we are introduced to a young group of filmmakers as they embark on making their debut horror movie in 1993. However, tragedy strikes, and the movie is not to be. Over the years scenes from the movie end up “leaked” online and the film develops a cult-like following, which in the time of the reboot, results in the film being given a second chance. The sole survivor from the original crew, who on further reflection, I’m not sure is actually named throughout the book, is referred to as “Thin Kid” or “Weird Guy,” and is recruited to help on the new film. We jump back and forth between ’93 and the present and often there are ‘script’ pages thrown in. 

This book was such a fun one to read. It was a great horror novel that had a fast pace, and it was refreshing to read a horror book that wasn’t over 500 pages (we’re looking at you, Mr. King). The only thing that did seem to get a little old was the Thin Kid’s self-loathing and degrading commentary, but there was even a purpose to that which was revealed at the end of the book. 

The characters were weird and quirky and felt real. Some scenes genuinely left me feeling creeped out, unsettled, and, dare I say, horrified. The ending of this book literally had me screaming. I really don’t know what else to say, this was just a great book! 

The release date for this book is June 11, 2024. Go preorder a copy!