Title: The Wrong Number
Author: R.L. Stine
First published January 1, 1990
165 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780671694111 (ISBN10: 0671694111)
Rating: 3.69
Overview
In R.L. Stine’s haunting novel, The Wrong Number, Deena Martinson and her best friend Jade Smith begin a harmless prank by making phone calls to unsuspecting boys. But when Deena’s half-brother Chuck discovers their secret, he blackmails them into letting him join in on the mischief.
Chuck starts making threatening calls to strangers, but when he dials a number on Fear Street, he realizes he has made a fatal mistake. The caller on the other end is a ruthless murderer who knows everything about the trio, and they have nowhere to turn for help.
The once-thrilling game has turned into a deadly nightmare, and the trio is running out of time to stop the killer before it’s too late.
About the Author
Meet Robert Lawrence Stine, a well-known American novelist and writer who has captivated younger audiences for years. You may have heard of him by his pen names, R.L. Stine or Jovial Bob Stine.
Stine has authored many horror fiction novellas that have become popular among kids, including the famous Goosebumps, Rotten School, Mostly Ghostly, The Nightmare Room, and Fear Street series.
Stine’s passion for writing started at a young age, beginning his journey at just nine years old. His dedication and hard work have paid off, earning him the title of the bestselling children’s author in history.
In the early 1990s, Stine became a household name after the unprecedented success of his bestselling Goosebumps series, selling over 250 million copies and becoming a worldwide multimedia phenomenon. His Fear Street series has also sold over 80 million copies.
Stine’s incredible contributions to literature have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards, including several Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards and Disney Adventures Kids’ Choice Awards.
He has also been selected as one of the favorite authors by kids in the NEA’s Read Across America program. Today, Stine resides in the bustling city of New York, NY.
Editoral Review
The Wrong Number by R.L. Stine is a classic example of the popular horror genre, targeting teenage readers. First published in 1990, it follows the story of Cory Brooks, a typical high school student, who accidentally dials a wrong number while trying to call his friend.
The person on the other end of the line tells Cory that he has won a prize, but he must answer a series of questions to claim it. As the questions become more sinister and violent, Cory realizes that he has become the unwitting participant in a deadly game.
R.L. Stine is a prolific author known for his work in the horror genre. His books have a cult following among young adults, who devour them for their suspenseful plot twists, macabre settings, and memorable characters.
The Wrong Number is no exception, delivering a thrilling and atmospheric experience that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The narrative is expertly crafted, with Stine building tension gradually to create a sense of dread that permeates every page.
The pacing is tight and fast, with each chapter ending on a cliffhanger that propels the story forward. The characters are well-drawn, with Cory and his friends, Jana and Brooke, coming across as relatable and sympathetic.
The villain of the story is suitably menacing, with Stine creating a palpable sense of danger that never lets up. However, the book does have some weaknesses.
The plot can be predictable at times, with some of the twists and turns feeling formulaic. The dialogue, too, can be stilted and clumsy, revealing Stine’s roots as a children’s book author.
Additionally, the violence and gore may be too much for some readers, especially those who are more sensitive to horror themes. Despite these flaws, The Wrong Number remains a classic of the horror genre, and a must-read for fans of R.L. Stine.
Its cultural significance lies in its ability to capture the fears and anxieties of teenage readers, and to provide a cathartic outlet for them. It is also a reminder of the enduring popularity of the horror genre, and its ability to thrill and terrify readers across generations.
In conclusion, The Wrong Number is a fun and suspenseful read, perfect for fans of horror and suspense. Its strengths lie in its expert pacing, memorable characters, and spine-tingling plot.
While it may not be perfect, it is a classic of its genre, and a testament to R.L. Stine’s skill as a writer. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good scare.
I give The Wrong Number a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
