A review by storyorc
Never Whistle at Night: An Indigenous Dark Fiction Anthology by Shane Hawk, Theodore C. Van Alst Jr.

adventurous dark funny informative tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? N/A
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.5

A creepy, varied collection that is not afraid to be as gruesome as it needs to be! Not every story will change your life but none are a bad way to pass 10-20 minutes and all are an interesting glimpse into the outlooks of different Indigenous Peoples for outsiders like myself. My favourites:

  • Kushtuka by Mathilda Zeller (made me the most paranoid of bedroom shadows)
  • Navajos Don't Wear Elk Teeth by Conley Lyons (best human monster)
  • Quantum by Nick Medina (deserves a film adaptation at least as popular as Babadook)
  • Tick Talk by Cherie Dimaline (best VIVID body horror)
  • Behind Colin's Eyes by Shane Hawk (child's POV that manages to be endearing and fun)
  • Heart-Shaped Clock by Kelli Jo Ford (most conflicting main character)
  • Scariest. Story. Ever. by Richard Van Camp (meta commentary on telling Traditional Stories)
  • The Longest Street in the World by Theodore C. Van Alst Jr. (best worldbuilding, funnest character dynamics)