61 pages • 2 hours read
A Head Full of Ghosts
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Book Brief
284
Novel • Fiction
Massachusetts • 2010s
2015
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Paul G. Tremblay's horror novel A Head Full of Ghosts, Merry Barrett recounts the disturbing events of her childhood when her sister Marjorie exhibited troubling behavior that their parents believed to be demonic possession. The family’s ordeal was documented in a reality TV show, further complicating Marjorie’s mental health and family dynamics. Sensitive topics include mental health conditions, trauma, and family conflict.
Dark
Unnerving
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
103,784 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
A Head Full of Ghosts by Paul G. Tremblay is praised for its chilling narrative and psychological depth. Critics highlight the believable characters and the clever blending of horror with contemporary themes. However, some feel the ending is predictable. Overall, it’s a gripping read that leaves a lasting impression on fans of psychological horror.
Who Should Read A Head Full of Ghosts?
A reader who would enjoy A Head Full of Ghosts by Paul G. Tremblay is a fan of psychological horror blended with family drama, much like readers of Shirley Jackson's The Haunting of Hill House and Mark Z. Danielewski's House of Leaves. They appreciate suspense, unreliable narration, and thought-provoking themes that challenge the nature of reality and sanity.
103,784 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Marjorie Barrett
Marjorie Barrett
Merry’s older sister, Marjorie, is a 14-year-old central figure whose mental health struggles and interactions with her family drive much of the novel’s conflict and mystery.
John Barrett (“Dad”)
John Barrett (“Dad”)
The father of the family, who is unemployed and struggling with his faith, takes drastic measures to address his daughter’s condition, impacting the entire household.
Sarah Barrett (“Mom”)
Sarah Barrett (“Mom”)
The mother of the household, Sarah works full-time as a bank teller and seeks traditional psychiatric care for her daughter Marjorie while dealing with mounting family and financial stress.
284
Novel • Fiction
Massachusetts • 2010s
2015
Adult
18+ years
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