We Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson (Novel)

This is a true classic, a psychological horror novel that gets into the mind of a demented teenager and the cruel town she lives in. It’s the story of sisters, Katherine andConstance, and how their dependent relationship evolves into one of isolation. It’s the story of the infamous Blackwoods, poisoned by their own children, and how because of their wealth and villainy become pariahs in their community. It’s Jackson at the heights of her powers crafting a memorable and complex character study that delves into jealousy both from a teenage girl wanting to protect her sister and a town from wanting to punish those they deem deserving of torment. There’s a lot to love about this book and while it’s not scary it’s dark and nasty in its psychological workings. When I finished the book I kept thinking of the documentary Grey Gardens. Except here there’s a darkness that’s truly tragic and beautiful and twisted. Grade: A