**Book Review: *Laughers* by Charles Welch**
Charles Welch's *Laughers* offers a chilling and darkly humorous take on the apocalypse, diverging from the usual tropes of nuclear war and zombies. Instead, Welch introduces a world where the end comes through a widespread epidemic of madness, characterized by uncontrollable laughter and violent chaos. This unique premise sets the stage for a gripping and unsettling narrative.
The story begins with people exhibiting bizarre behaviors—stuttering and speaking gibberish—before descending into full-blown insanity. As they lose their minds, they commit heinous acts of destruction and murder, all while finding them hilariously entertaining. This twisted sense of humor adds a disturbing layer to the narrative, making the reader both cringe and chuckle at the sheer absurdity of it all.
At the heart of the chaos are high school sweethearts Matt and Kyra, who are desperately trying to reach Matt's mother amid a historic blizzard that has hit their town. Their journey through a nightmarish landscape of destruction is fraught with danger and uncertainty, as they encounter the "Laughers"—those who have succumbed to the madness. Welch skillfully portrays their struggle for survival, interspersed with moments of introspection and doubt.
The central questions that drive the narrative—What is causing this madness? Why are some people immune? Will the protagonists also succumb?—create a compelling mystery that keeps the reader hooked. As Matt, Kyra, and Matt's mother navigate the treacherous world around them, they must confront the possibility that they, too, could fall victim to the insanity.
Welch's writing is both vivid and visceral, capturing the horror and absurdity of the Laughers' actions. The book is a rollercoaster of emotions, balancing moments of tension and terror with instances of dark humor. The characters' development, particularly Matt and Kyra's relationship, adds depth to the story, making their plight all the more relatable and poignant.
*Laughers* is a thought-provoking exploration of sanity, survival, and the thin line between humor and horror. Welch's inventive approach to the apocalypse genre sets this novel apart, offering readers a fresh and unsettling perspective on the end of the world. It's a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and those who appreciate a good dose of dark humor.
In conclusion, *Laughers* by Charles Welch is a masterful blend of horror, humor, and heart. It challenges readers to confront their own perceptions of sanity and the human capacity for violence, all while delivering a captivating and unforgettable story. Welch's imaginative and daring narrative will leave a lasting impression, making this book a standout in the realm of apocalyptic fiction.