Title: Little Star
Author: John Ajvide Lindqvist
First published January 1, 2010
533 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780312620516 (ISBN10: 0312620519)
Rating: 3.63
Overview
In John Ajvide Lindqvist’s Little Star, the discovery of a baby in the woods changes the course of two families’ lives. Raised in a basement, the girl’s talent for singing catches the attention of her caretaker’s son.
He takes her to Stockholm and enters her in a national competition, where she catches the eye of a troubled young girl. Together, they form a duo that captivates audiences but unleashes a horrifying darkness that threatens to consume them both.
Lindqvist weaves a chilling tale of obsession and possession that will leave readers breathless.
About the Author
Meet John Ajvide Lindqvist, a Swedish author who hails from Blackeberg, the very same place where the intriguing Let the Right One In is set. Lindqvist had a desire to be something extraordinary and bizarre, which led him to pursue a career in magic before becoming a stand-up comedian for over a decade.
He also has writing credits for Swedish television. Lindqvist’s novel became a top seller in Sweden and earned the title of Best Novel in Translation 2005 in Norway.
Additionally, he has authored other works such as Handling the Undead and Harbour. For those interested, Lindqvist also has a profile available in Russian.
Editoral Review
Little Star by John Ajvide Lindqvist is a captivating work of horror fiction that explores the darker side of human nature. Lindqvist is a Swedish author and screenwriter known for his unique blend of horror, supernatural, and suspense elements.
He has received numerous awards for his work, including Sweden’s prestigious August Prize. The book centers around two young girls – Theres and Teresa – who meet in a singing competition and form a strong bond.
However, their friendship takes a dark turn as they become obsessed with each other and embark on a dangerous path fueled by jealousy and revenge. The story is set in Sweden and portrays a society struggling with issues of identity, social isolation, and violence.
Lindqvist delivers an elegant and compelling narrative that is both haunting and thought-provoking. The author effectively builds tension through his use of vivid language and imagery, conveying a sense of unease that permeates the entire story.
The characters are complex and well-developed, with unique motivations and flaws that make them feel real and relatable. The plot is unpredictable and full of twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
What sets Little Star apart from other works of horror is its exploration of psychological themes such as trauma, loneliness, and mental illness. The book is not simply about cheap scares and gore, but about the human condition and the darkness that can arise within us all.
Lindqvist’s writing is both poignant and chilling, leaving readers with a sense of unease and introspection. However, the book does have its flaws.
At times, the pacing can feel slow or meandering, and some readers may find the graphic violence and disturbing imagery too much to handle. Additionally, the translation from Swedish to English can be jarring and disrupt the flow of the narrative.
Despite these limitations, Little Star is a must-read for fans of horror and psychological suspense. Lindqvist’s masterful storytelling and intricate character development make for a truly unforgettable reading experience.
The book is relevant to current issues such as mental health and social isolation, making it a poignant commentary on the struggles of modern society. Overall, Little Star earns a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
The book is a beautiful and haunting work of horror fiction that will leave readers questioning the complexities of the human psyche. It is recommended for fans of Stephen King, Gillian Flynn, and Shirley Jackson, as well as anyone who enjoys thought-provoking and unsettling stories.
