If It Bleeds

Normally, I have a specific format for collections that I review for length's sake, but since there are only four novellas, I will share a couple of my thoughts on each of them. The collection overall was good, it's King. I know what to expect at this point; he has mastered the novella, the short story, and all other types of writing that exist.

Mr. Harrigan's Phone: This was the weakest story, in my opinion, maybe because I was expecting a little bit more from the ending. I like how King puts a twist on the genie in a bottle trope, though, and makes the reader consider the give and take of almost everything in this world. Just because you can't SEE the consequences of your actions (and even wishes sometimes), they happen regardless. The main character of this story learns this lesson before straying too far.

The Life of Chuck: This one has a movie that I'll watch at some point. I think going backwards through someone's life is quite fascinating, but this one also ended up being a little underwhelming for me overall. I just didn't get a whole lot of punch from it. I didn't connect with Chuck as I have with so many other King characters, and when I got to the end, I just thought "eh."

If It Bleeds: The best story in the collection by far. This one was reminiscent of one of my favorite stories from "Everything's Eventual" (the western one). Holly is SUCH A COOL MAIN CHARACTER. I need to read everything King has made with her in it now (and thankfully, there's a lot.) If a novella can make you yearn to read an entire series because of it. It's doing pretty darn well. Everything about this one is perfect, the pacing, the side plots, and the climactic ending make for a fulfilling story.

Rat: Writers do sure love writing stories about writers struggling with writers' block... ha-ha. This one is quite good though; you know bad stuff is going to happen and you're rooting for the main character, which is PIVOTOL in my opinion. If a writer isn't able to establish a connection between you and the tragic main character, the story isn't as effective. Also, I love happy couples portrayed in stories... call me a romantic.

Read Primarily Because: Buddy got it for me.