Title: The Haunting of Hill House
Author: Shirley Jackson
Genre: Horror Fiction
First Publication: 1959
Language: English
Main Characters: Dr. Montague, Mrs. Dudley, Eleanor Vance, Theodora, Luke Sanderson, Mrs. Montague, Arthur Parker
Review:
“No live organism can continue for long to exist sanely under conditions of absolute reality.”
First published in 1959, Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House has been accepted as a one of the greatest classic horror stories.
The tale begins with the Dr Montague, who is completely over taken with the idea of finding scientific evidence of paranormal activity in the famous Hill House.
Eleanor, a quiet, shy, reserved woman is invited to join the investigation. The book gives a an in-depth view on the insecurities, hopes and needs of Eleanor. We see her friendship evolve with Theodora, who, quite opposite to Eleanor, is a very whimsical woman to say the least. We can witness the raw friendship and its ups and downs.
The story dwells upon the psychological trauma and abuse that Eleanor has hidden deep within her heart. It stars to show and she is taken up by the thoughts that almost leads to insanity. She is constantly seen walking on a thin line between what’s real and what’s imagination. All she had ever wanted was to find a home, which she never really had. She searches to be accepted and appreciated by others. However, it is quite clear that nothing kills a person more than loneliness.
This book is not just a horror story, it is a roller-coaster of emotions, as we watch the story unfold. Personally, I loved the story and the character developments.
My Rating : 4.5/5
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