Blurb on the back of the book, written by Stephen King: "To say this is a terrific debut novel is really too mild. I haven't read such a relentlessly creepy family saga since John Farris's All Heads Turn as the Hunt Goes By, and that was thirty years ago, give or take. Sharp Objects isn't one of those scare-and-retreat books; its effect is cumulative. I found myself dreading the last thirty pages or so but was helpless to stop turning them. Then, after the lights were out, the story just stayed there in my head, coiled and hissing, like a snake in a cave. An admirably nasty piece of work, elevated by sharp writing and sharper insights."Impressive. For a first novel, it's quite incredible. I think Stephen King might be overstating it just a wee bit, but then again, I can't wait until she comes out with her next book. Yes, it's pretty creepy, but not in a unrealistic kind of way. It's psychologically creepy. And, being a mental health worker, I found it totally, completely fascinating. And I don't think you'd have to be in the field to think so.
I kind of feel the same way about Gillian Flynn as I do about Stephen King. How can a normal person come up with this creepy stuff?? She says in her acknowledgements that no one in her family is remotely like this family. mmm-hmm. She's got quite the imagination then.
The Oakland newspaper groups are doing a monthly book club. This is their pick this month and I'm hoping to be able to attend the discussion at my local book store. I crave a real life book club and just haven't been able to make it happen, so maybe this will be a good substitute. It's great. If you have the courage, read it.
