The book by South Korean author Bora Chung is a collection of 10 stories.
Alongside themes of horror, the author delves into topics such as capitalism, patriarchy, environmental destruction, and family bonds. The story that gives the book its name, Cursed Bunny, revolves around a sorcerer creating a cursed rabbit figurine to exact revenge on a businessman who harmed their family.
The story questions the concepts of justice and revenge while criticizing the cruel face of the capitalist system.
The stories that impacted me the most were Cursed Bunny, Reincarnation, The Headless Man, and Reunion.
In her stories, Bora Chung presents events and characters that trigger people's deepest fears: supernatural forces, grotesque monsters, or ordinary individuals victimized by society. Each tale offers both terror and profound reflection, creating unique worlds for readers to explore.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, but it might not appeal to everyone. Readers sensitive to disturbing themes may find it challenging. However, for those who appreciate dark and thought-provoking stories, this book will be unforgettable.
One of the main issues—or perhaps challenges—when reading this book lies in its nature as a story collection. I don’t expect every story to be equally strong, but while some stories (Cursed Bunny, The Headless Man) are deeply compelling and memorable, others (The Land of the Dead, The House) feel weaker and more ordinary. This unevenness slightly disrupts the book’s overall impact.
Lastly, the book has a consistently dark, grim, and gloomy tone. There’s an overwhelming sense of hopelessness that can feel exhausting at times.
Well. When I saw “horror” and “fantasy” on the back cover of this book I’d received, I almost put it back on my TBR pile. Literally the two literary genres I like the least. But fortune favors the bold, so I decided to give it a try. While I’m still waiting for my Euromillions results (toes crossed), I have to admit this reading experience really didn’t disappoint me.
In terms of atmosphere: well… imagine a mix between an episode of Black Mirror (any one will do—I’m not picky, since they’re all both terrifying and realistic) and gothic fiction (Frankenstein? Dracula? Take your pick). See what I mean? Now break that down into ten short stories and you’ve got the book.
I had a particular fondness for the first three (the evil rabbit, the creepy head emerging from the toilet bowl, and the visits to a guilt-inducing gynecologist).
In every case, the symbolic message is strong yet subtle: patriarchy, consumer society, women’s place, heredity (a little nod to the Lannisters and the Rougon-Macquart clan), greed, and the thirst for power…
A biting treat with a lingering aftertaste of gloom: if you have their numbers, give Morticia and Wednesday a call—they’ll love it!
Was a really good book honestly, read it for my book club and I DID NOT expect what it was gonna be like I really loved the cover (I read the English edition) but I found it to be interesting especially a fan of all things weird and creepy !!
The scar was probably my favourite one and so was the cursed rabbit, head was a fan favourite in our club.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.