Book Review: Another by Paul Tremblay
When I heard that Paul Tremblay, the master of psychological horror, was making his middle grade debut with Another, my curiosity piqued instantly. Tremblay’s skill in crafting chilling atmospheres and dissecting complex emotions in works like A Head Full of Ghosts and The Cabin at the End of the World is something I deeply admire. Could he channel that talent into a story for younger readers? Spoiler alert: he absolutely does, and in a way that feels authentic, relatable, and unforgettably unsettling.
Another unfolds in the turbulent times of the COVID-19 pandemic, through the eyes of twelve-year-old Casey Wilson. Right from the very first pages, Casey’s struggles feel unprecedentedly real—his isolation, the lingering embarrassment from the “Zoom Incident,” and his desperate longing for connection resonate with the experiences of so many kids (and adults) navigating this new reality. The arrival of Morel, a clay-skinned boy delivered in a burlap sack by a cryptic figure, serves as both a bizarre twist of fate and a poignant exploration of friendship and identity.
Tremblay masterfully captures the essence of childhood anxiety, depicting Casey’s struggles with facial tics and social insecurities with remarkable empathy. It struck me how the familiar fears of growing up—especially during such an isolating period—are amplified by Morel’s gradual emergence as both a friend and a sinister shadow. The fear of being replaced or outshined by an alter ego is a theme that tugged at my heartstrings; I could feel Casey’s terror as Morel started to absorb not just his appearance but also his parents’ affections.
The pacing of Another is a testament to Tremblay’s craft. Instead of rushing to the horrifying revelations, he allows tension to build organically, drawing readers deeper into the eerie atmosphere of the Wilson household. The numbered chapters serve as a countdown—a clever narrative technique that heightens the suspense with each passing day of Morel’s stay. I found myself fully invested, turning pages late into the night, eager but apprehensive to see what calamity awaited.
One of the standout aspects of the book is the way Tremblay weaves art into Casey’s identity. His drawings become a lifeline, a means of resistance against the encroaching dread that Morel represents. When Morel forbids him from creating, it’s not merely an act of villainy—it attacks Casey’s essence. This imaginative thread resonated with me; I’ve always believed art is not just a hobby but a crucial way in which we assert our individuality.
Despite its triumphs, the novel does venture into some complexities that might challenge younger readers. The nuanced relationship between Casey and Morel encompasses elements of friendship, rivalry, and fear, a balancing act that requires a keen eye to fully appreciate. Also, the echoes of real-world isolation during the pandemic could trigger memories, making it a potentially mixed experience for those who relived that stress.
In conclusion, Another is a significant achievement in middle grade horror that deserves a place on the shelves of both young readers and adult enthusiasts of the genre. Tremblay’s respect for his audience shines through every page, proving that meaningful themes can coexist with spine-tingling scares. If you enjoy stories about the intricacies of childhood, the weight of identity, or simply need a good chill, this book is undoubtedly worth your time. For me, it was a hauntingly beautiful reminder of how art, even in the darkest times, can illuminate our paths to self-discovery.
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