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Night Fall ™ #1
Unthinkable
Omar Phillips is Bridgewater High's favorite local teen author. His Facebook fans can't wait for his next horror story. But lately Omar's imagination has turned against him. Horrifying visions of death and destruction come over him with wide-screen intensity. The only way to stop the visions is to write them down. Until they start coming true... Enter Sophie Minax, the mysterious Goth girl who's been following Omar at school. "I'm one of you," Sophie says. She tells Omar how to end the visionsbut the only thing worse than Sophie's cure may be what happens if he ignores it.
112 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2010
15 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
February 2, 2021
I agree with someone this just felt like the first draft with light editing. It would have been a wonderful story with character development.
July 19, 2019
I was looking around at the new books that had came into the library and I saw this one along with two others. They looked small but I figured I would give it a shot to see if it would be good. This was a book it had me from the first page I read pretty quickly and I did enjoy it though I wanted more back story into how some kids get this power. We are introduced to Omar who seems to be a great writer and posts his stuff online. Though what starts to happen is whatever Omar writes it comes true, kind of scary right? Especially when people start missing and getting hurt. At first you start thinking could Omar be doing it and not remembering it so he writes or is something else more sinister going on? As we progress fairly quickly in the story we learn that something else is going on and Omar will have to stop it, yet can he?
This is a good middle school book one that I would let my 7th grader read as it is not scary in a horror sense more like a sit around the campfire and tell something spooky.
The plot was steady so it would be good for those that may get bored with books fairly quickly.
I am going back and forth on my rating of a 3 to a 4 so I will keep it at a 4. It is hard to pick what I could really rate this. As the story was good and it held my interest I just wanted more.
This is a good middle school book one that I would let my 7th grader read as it is not scary in a horror sense more like a sit around the campfire and tell something spooky.
The plot was steady so it would be good for those that may get bored with books fairly quickly.
I am going back and forth on my rating of a 3 to a 4 so I will keep it at a 4. It is hard to pick what I could really rate this. As the story was good and it held my interest I just wanted more.
November 1, 2024
If you like gritty, paranormal horror, this book is for you!
March 4, 2018
The title of the book is Unthinkable by Shirley Duke. The location of the story is in Bridgewater. Some of the main characters in the book include Omar Phillips, Gabriel, Sophie Minax, Rebecca. Those are the main characters that play a big part in the story. The beginning part of the story starts off with Omar and his brother Gabriel. Omar is a a author that mainly writes horror stories. He starts to notice that some of the recent deaths in Bridgewater are lining up with some of his stories.
Omar is a person that is very weary of things. He also gets these weird kind of visions of his stories that he writes. He starts to go insane from all of these visions. I think this book is alot cooler that most of the books in this genre because it sucks you in and makes you want to find out how is he going to solve it or how does he stop the visions. He makes it seem like this is a real life thing because what if the horror books in real life came to life. This book reminds me of a goosebumps episode where everything that he wrote on the typewriter came true just like ay story he wrote it came true.
I like this books because it is a good horror book. It comes with a lot of things that you wouldn't expect in a horror book like this. This horror book is very creative because no other horror book has anything like in this book. The book is has a very nice title because it is very unthinkable you can almost never guess what is going to happen next. I think the author did a good job with the characters and how they fit into place very well in a little town called bridgewater. That is my overall opinion on the book.
Omar is a person that is very weary of things. He also gets these weird kind of visions of his stories that he writes. He starts to go insane from all of these visions. I think this book is alot cooler that most of the books in this genre because it sucks you in and makes you want to find out how is he going to solve it or how does he stop the visions. He makes it seem like this is a real life thing because what if the horror books in real life came to life. This book reminds me of a goosebumps episode where everything that he wrote on the typewriter came true just like ay story he wrote it came true.
I like this books because it is a good horror book. It comes with a lot of things that you wouldn't expect in a horror book like this. This horror book is very creative because no other horror book has anything like in this book. The book is has a very nice title because it is very unthinkable you can almost never guess what is going to happen next. I think the author did a good job with the characters and how they fit into place very well in a little town called bridgewater. That is my overall opinion on the book.
October 29, 2017
The book is about a highschooler named Omar. He writes scary stories and posts them on his facebook page. He starts having nightmares but unfortunately they start coming true after he meets this girl named Sophie Minax. These nightmares get worse as he lives his life and needs her help to stop them.
She has a cure but Omar doesn't like it but he is also worried what will happen if he ignores her and just lets the nightmares continue.
I think that it is a pretty good book. The books plot is pretty good. The scary aspect of the book is pretty well done by the writer in my opinion. Its a nice and short quick book to read if you have nothing to do. This book is also very good for people in middle school and high school.
I think that the book should be a little longer. The ending to me felt rushed and unfinished. I think that some of the characters were undeveloped because of the size of the book. The ending left with a lot of unanswered questions. Knowing more about Omar's powers would've been really cool.
She has a cure but Omar doesn't like it but he is also worried what will happen if he ignores her and just lets the nightmares continue.
I think that it is a pretty good book. The books plot is pretty good. The scary aspect of the book is pretty well done by the writer in my opinion. Its a nice and short quick book to read if you have nothing to do. This book is also very good for people in middle school and high school.
I think that the book should be a little longer. The ending to me felt rushed and unfinished. I think that some of the characters were undeveloped because of the size of the book. The ending left with a lot of unanswered questions. Knowing more about Omar's powers would've been really cool.
October 25, 2017
If it weren’t for its length and the font size, I definitely wouldn’t see Unthinkable as a hi-lo. For the most part, this book is really well-written! I’m impressed.
Duke starts out the novel with one of Omar’s stories, and the tension only builds from there. The characters’ reactions to the first death (based on his first story) are realistically heartbreaking. Everything with the police coming after Omar for questioning sets the reader on the edge of their seat. The first time, I was worried for him because he didn’t have a very good alibi for the crime. I’m not actually sure what crime they could have pegged on Omar for the second story, the one about the ferry being destroyed in a freak waterspout, though. At that point, the cop in charge (who was also the dead girl’s father) seemed just unhinged enough that he didn’t care what he charged Omar with as long as he arrested him.
Full review at A Writer Reads.
Duke starts out the novel with one of Omar’s stories, and the tension only builds from there. The characters’ reactions to the first death (based on his first story) are realistically heartbreaking. Everything with the police coming after Omar for questioning sets the reader on the edge of their seat. The first time, I was worried for him because he didn’t have a very good alibi for the crime. I’m not actually sure what crime they could have pegged on Omar for the second story, the one about the ferry being destroyed in a freak waterspout, though. At that point, the cop in charge (who was also the dead girl’s father) seemed just unhinged enough that he didn’t care what he charged Omar with as long as he arrested him.
Full review at A Writer Reads.
May 6, 2021
Unthinkable is about a a boy named Omar that has a gift for writing. He's always had these visions of terrible things that only stop once he writes them. He's always dealt with the visions this way until writing them started making them come true. His childhood best friend, Natashia, dies in the same way he wrote in his story one day before it happened. But the visions try and force him to write the stories so he has to find a way to stop the visions for good. I think it's a great story but a little lack luster. There's nothing too special or super excited or any major plot twists in it. I also think that the introduction to the last 2 characters was a little abrupt but you can only do so much with 103 pages so i'll let it slide. Overall a good book but nothings pops out too much about it. 4 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2021
So, a decent, at times actually intense, horror novella about Omar, a teen boy who aspires to be a horror author. He writes short horrific tales on Facebook and has many appreciative readers. Then he starts getting visions that direct his tales, darker and more personal than before. When his stories begin to come true, his worst fears are realized. Then, a Goth girl from school takes and interest in him and says she can explain what's happening to him. But what intentions does she really have for Omar?
The horror elements were pretty sound and creepy. The explanation for what caused Omar's visions felt like it was lifted somewhat from a particular Hollywood movie (which shall remain nameless to prevent spoilers). If the story had been fleshed out more it might have been better, but this was intended to be a short tale in a series.
The horror elements were pretty sound and creepy. The explanation for what caused Omar's visions felt like it was lifted somewhat from a particular Hollywood movie (which shall remain nameless to prevent spoilers). If the story had been fleshed out more it might have been better, but this was intended to be a short tale in a series.
March 27, 2019
I didn't hate it enough to give it 1 star and 2 stars is kind of generous. The writer just threw a bunch of cool sounding stuff and didn't even bother to actually give us the whole story. Bruh. Just, bruh.
September 28, 2020
I’ll give it four stars, because I do find this book really nice I enjoyed the storyline a lot only reason I didn’t put five.. I’m so so sorry Mrs. Author ma’am but Omar’s name was repeated just way too many times that’s only my opinion very amazing book tho!
October 25, 2022
This novella has some real potential. If it was made longer the character development and even storyline development could have been incredible.
It was a nice short read with some horror aspects, however I felt there was too much that wanted to be covered in a such a short story.
It was a nice short read with some horror aspects, however I felt there was too much that wanted to be covered in a such a short story.
October 30, 2017
Omar writes stories, puts them on Facebook, and readers say they are good and scary. All good so far ... until the visions he has and has to write down start coming true.
August 8, 2021
Wasn't expecting much out of this quick read series, maybe an audiobook horror version of the old ABC After School Specials? (Despite lack of dropdown listing here, this is actually available on Hoopla.)
Story's not bad, but the narrator's delivery is terrible. Sounds like he's ending a sentence with a number instead of announcing the beginning of a new chapter.
Story's not bad, but the narrator's delivery is terrible. Sounds like he's ending a sentence with a number instead of announcing the beginning of a new chapter.
April 11, 2022
It was fine for what it was, though it definitely felt like middle grade or young reader at best.
October 3, 2023
Omar loves to write and he writes about the horrors he imagines. But things become too real...
December 12, 2025
I really enjoyed i. It was for a younger audience, I think, but I enjoyed it. Really short book, a quick and fast-paced read.
October 4, 2016
So it wasn't bad. *shrug* I read it because I knew it would be a quick read and a book under 150 pages is on my book checklist✅. It's worth a read if you're bored in October, but it was definitely rushed. The main climax was like a few paragraphs and then BAM it's over. Then you're sitting there like.... was... was that it?
November 3, 2014
The Night Fall series seems to be channeling a multitude of sources in Unthinkable. On one hand it's similar to Goosebumps (as one goodreads reviewer put it) but it also bears many similarities to series such as Fear Street as well as the slew of similarly themed books that abounded during the late 80s & early 90s. And I'm comparing them in a good way.
This story started with a bang, which is a very good thing considering that it's such a short story. The pacing of this is incredibly fast paced & the author does an incredibly good job of keeping the reader interested in the story. Unfortunately that's where the book hits a bit of a snag. While the story is fleshed out enough to make it as a short story, the tale begs for at least another 50-100 pages so it can be complete. Some of the events in the book just happen a little too quickly. Many readers will wish for just a little more time & description inbetween events, just so when the big stuff hits there will be enough time for them to have settled down from the last surprise & so the next big development will have the punch it deserves. (Although I think this was something required by the publisher rather than a decision by the author herself.)
Now don't take that to mean that the book is bad. No, far from it. This story was awesome & as a series in the vein of Goosebumps & other series aimed for a younger audience, this is perfect. Not only is the book short enough for those in that "inbetween" stage (where you want more than a 40 page book but aren't ready for longer stories), but it's also age appropriate for the younger readers. There's death, but no gore or sex. The book's projected age range is 11-18, an ambitious range but one that it does accomplish for the most part. There was enough here to keep someone well out of that age range spellbound so if I liked it then you can be sure that the teens will as well.
This was an enjoyable book to read & something that I know will thrill a pretty wide variety of readers. This is only one book in what is currently a 6 book series with more to come, so to get the wider picture you'll have to get the other books. (Which I am now putting in my "to find & read" list.)
(ARC provided by NetGalley)
This story started with a bang, which is a very good thing considering that it's such a short story. The pacing of this is incredibly fast paced & the author does an incredibly good job of keeping the reader interested in the story. Unfortunately that's where the book hits a bit of a snag. While the story is fleshed out enough to make it as a short story, the tale begs for at least another 50-100 pages so it can be complete. Some of the events in the book just happen a little too quickly. Many readers will wish for just a little more time & description inbetween events, just so when the big stuff hits there will be enough time for them to have settled down from the last surprise & so the next big development will have the punch it deserves. (Although I think this was something required by the publisher rather than a decision by the author herself.)
Now don't take that to mean that the book is bad. No, far from it. This story was awesome & as a series in the vein of Goosebumps & other series aimed for a younger audience, this is perfect. Not only is the book short enough for those in that "inbetween" stage (where you want more than a 40 page book but aren't ready for longer stories), but it's also age appropriate for the younger readers. There's death, but no gore or sex. The book's projected age range is 11-18, an ambitious range but one that it does accomplish for the most part. There was enough here to keep someone well out of that age range spellbound so if I liked it then you can be sure that the teens will as well.
This was an enjoyable book to read & something that I know will thrill a pretty wide variety of readers. This is only one book in what is currently a 6 book series with more to come, so to get the wider picture you'll have to get the other books. (Which I am now putting in my "to find & read" list.)
(ARC provided by NetGalley)
February 22, 2011
2.5 STARS
Plot:
Unthinkable was just over one hundred pages, and felt more like a short story. But that's besides the point.
I felt like I was reading the first draft of Unthinkable, because there wasn't much character development or details --- it was all just plot, and that really took away from the story.
I did think that this book was eerie and creepy, and would be good for reading to a younger sibling to scare them.
Characters:
As I mentioned above, there wasn't much character development in this book, and I didn't really know what the characters were like, or their background stories.
I could tell that Duke was trying to make Goth-girl Sophie really weird and creepy, but it didn't work for me. I felt like she was trying too hard.
I will admit that not having much focus on the characters did shift your attention to the plot more, and how scary the horror stories were.
Writing:
It seemed like Unthinkable was the summary of a much longer, better book. I think if Shirley Duke had spent more time to add in more details and background info, I would have enjoyed it more and felt like I was actually in the book.
Ending:
The ending was my least favorite part of this entire book. Everything was wrapped up in a couple of paragraphs, and it was all facts, and no feeling.
Reading the last pages of the book reminded me of where, at the end of some movies/shows, the "What happens next to the person" is written across the screen in a few sentences. It felt rushed and didn't end the book on a good note for me.
Cover:
I think the cover did a good job of capturing the eerie-ness of Unthinkable, but it isn't really eye-catching.
Lovely Line:
Omar had barely made it out of the clearing when he felt something rubber knock gently against his face. He looked up into the sole of a shoe. It belonged to a corpse hanging from a noose above. No, it wasn't a corpse. It was still living --- a woman gasping for air and clawing at her neck. "You you, you!" the woman rose a limp arm and pointed it at Omar. "You did this."
(Page 75)
The Final Verdict:
Unthinkable was a not very memorable, but still enjoyable read. It kept my attention, and only took me an hour and a half or so to read.
FTC: NetGalley
Plot:
Unthinkable was just over one hundred pages, and felt more like a short story. But that's besides the point.
I felt like I was reading the first draft of Unthinkable, because there wasn't much character development or details --- it was all just plot, and that really took away from the story.
I did think that this book was eerie and creepy, and would be good for reading to a younger sibling to scare them.
Characters:
As I mentioned above, there wasn't much character development in this book, and I didn't really know what the characters were like, or their background stories.
I could tell that Duke was trying to make Goth-girl Sophie really weird and creepy, but it didn't work for me. I felt like she was trying too hard.
I will admit that not having much focus on the characters did shift your attention to the plot more, and how scary the horror stories were.
Writing:
It seemed like Unthinkable was the summary of a much longer, better book. I think if Shirley Duke had spent more time to add in more details and background info, I would have enjoyed it more and felt like I was actually in the book.
Ending:
The ending was my least favorite part of this entire book. Everything was wrapped up in a couple of paragraphs, and it was all facts, and no feeling.
Reading the last pages of the book reminded me of where, at the end of some movies/shows, the "What happens next to the person" is written across the screen in a few sentences. It felt rushed and didn't end the book on a good note for me.
Cover:
I think the cover did a good job of capturing the eerie-ness of Unthinkable, but it isn't really eye-catching.
Lovely Line:
Omar had barely made it out of the clearing when he felt something rubber knock gently against his face. He looked up into the sole of a shoe. It belonged to a corpse hanging from a noose above. No, it wasn't a corpse. It was still living --- a woman gasping for air and clawing at her neck. "You you, you!" the woman rose a limp arm and pointed it at Omar. "You did this."
(Page 75)
The Final Verdict:
Unthinkable was a not very memorable, but still enjoyable read. It kept my attention, and only took me an hour and a half or so to read.
FTC: NetGalley
March 25, 2011
Description:
Omar Phillips is Bridgewater High's favorite local teen author. His Facebook fans can't wait for his next horror story. But lately Omar's imagination has turned against him. Horrifying visions of death and destruction come over him with wide-screen intensity. The only way to stop the visions is to write them down. Until they start coming true...
Enter Sophie Minax, the mysterious Goth girl who's been following Omar at school. "I'm one of you," Sophie says. She tells Omar how to end the visions―but the only thing worse than Sophie's cure may be what happens if he ignores it.
My thoughts...
First, I just want to say I love suspense/horror books...they really keep you on the edge of your seat, and you just have to keep reading until you discover what happens next.
This book met the needs of being scary, suspenseful and more...even with the book being a little over 100 pages, it was a quick read (about an hour or more) and I really enjoyed it. I do have to say some of the characters were undeveloped, and the plot was very quick though - you have to pay close attention to detail or you might just miss what was going on. I liked the association with Facebook in the book...which really made you think that it was a new read/very modern.
The ending was okay...and there were several questions still unanswered - so I am wondering if they would found the next book in the 'Night Fall' series. I would have liked to know more about Omar's powers and some of the other characters. I would give this book 4/5 stars...a very quick read, one that I would recommend for middle school/young adults.
To learn more about the book click here. You can buy this book on Amazon (avail. October 2010).
Thank You so much Net Galley and Lerner Publishing Group (Darby Creek) for allowing me to read this book! I cannot wait to read more books from you in the future!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Net Galley review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Omar Phillips is Bridgewater High's favorite local teen author. His Facebook fans can't wait for his next horror story. But lately Omar's imagination has turned against him. Horrifying visions of death and destruction come over him with wide-screen intensity. The only way to stop the visions is to write them down. Until they start coming true...
Enter Sophie Minax, the mysterious Goth girl who's been following Omar at school. "I'm one of you," Sophie says. She tells Omar how to end the visions―but the only thing worse than Sophie's cure may be what happens if he ignores it.
My thoughts...
First, I just want to say I love suspense/horror books...they really keep you on the edge of your seat, and you just have to keep reading until you discover what happens next.
This book met the needs of being scary, suspenseful and more...even with the book being a little over 100 pages, it was a quick read (about an hour or more) and I really enjoyed it. I do have to say some of the characters were undeveloped, and the plot was very quick though - you have to pay close attention to detail or you might just miss what was going on. I liked the association with Facebook in the book...which really made you think that it was a new read/very modern.
The ending was okay...and there were several questions still unanswered - so I am wondering if they would found the next book in the 'Night Fall' series. I would have liked to know more about Omar's powers and some of the other characters. I would give this book 4/5 stars...a very quick read, one that I would recommend for middle school/young adults.
To learn more about the book click here. You can buy this book on Amazon (avail. October 2010).
Thank You so much Net Galley and Lerner Publishing Group (Darby Creek) for allowing me to read this book! I cannot wait to read more books from you in the future!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Net Galley review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
November 11, 2010
It's Goosebumps for a new generation. It's comforting to know that horror, true horror, isn't dead. This book might not be dripping in the blood of its protagonists, but it brings with it a sense of spook, a creepy feeling that makes you think maybe you should read with the lights on.
The story is young adult but it's told in a very middle grade language, which would be my only complaint about the book itself. I don't think I would have liked it as much if it were a MG book because the tone would have been completely different. But I did want some more depth to it than what was given. It read kind of like a campfire tale but without the camp. Where Goosebumps (although awesome) could run a little goofy, Unthinkable didn't really have that. Omar writes awesome horror stories. That start coming true. Oops! There isn't any kookiness and I don't think the story renders it. It works well as it is. I just wish the language was closer to being YA.
It's definitely a super-fast read. Maybe an hour and you can read cover to cover but it doesn't hamper the story any. I was sucked in immediately, mainly because it started with one of Omar's stories that really are good. He's a talented teen author! Too bad he's probably been scared straight out of writing for the rest of his life after his ordeal. But I liked the concept behind it all and it's the main reason I think it would have been so much better in an older voice. I would have loved more exposition on the reason everything was happening. But within the timeline of the story, the pacing was good, I didn't feel rushed at any point during the story but I just couldn't put the book down.
I have two other books in this series sitting in my pile and I can't wait to get to them. I'm interested in seeing how the other stories play out after this one. It's clear that Duke didn't hold back in the plot. She wasn't afraid to put anyone and everyone at risk and that right there makes an awesome horror story; the anticipation, the fear that anyone, ANYONE, can get eaten by the big bad monster. I wish there was more horror out there for the YA category. And I hope the other books hold up to this one.
The story is young adult but it's told in a very middle grade language, which would be my only complaint about the book itself. I don't think I would have liked it as much if it were a MG book because the tone would have been completely different. But I did want some more depth to it than what was given. It read kind of like a campfire tale but without the camp. Where Goosebumps (although awesome) could run a little goofy, Unthinkable didn't really have that. Omar writes awesome horror stories. That start coming true. Oops! There isn't any kookiness and I don't think the story renders it. It works well as it is. I just wish the language was closer to being YA.
It's definitely a super-fast read. Maybe an hour and you can read cover to cover but it doesn't hamper the story any. I was sucked in immediately, mainly because it started with one of Omar's stories that really are good. He's a talented teen author! Too bad he's probably been scared straight out of writing for the rest of his life after his ordeal. But I liked the concept behind it all and it's the main reason I think it would have been so much better in an older voice. I would have loved more exposition on the reason everything was happening. But within the timeline of the story, the pacing was good, I didn't feel rushed at any point during the story but I just couldn't put the book down.
I have two other books in this series sitting in my pile and I can't wait to get to them. I'm interested in seeing how the other stories play out after this one. It's clear that Duke didn't hold back in the plot. She wasn't afraid to put anyone and everyone at risk and that right there makes an awesome horror story; the anticipation, the fear that anyone, ANYONE, can get eaten by the big bad monster. I wish there was more horror out there for the YA category. And I hope the other books hold up to this one.
May 24, 2011
If you're looking for a quick creepy story, pick up this book. However, if you're looking for substance and an overall satisfying story, this might not be the route to take.
Omar has this problem where he has horrifying visions of people's deaths. He takes these visions and turns them into stories that he posts online because, as far as he's concerned, these are just weird dreams. Suddenly, though, his stories are coming true - starting with the murder of a former friend. Once it happens again, he makes the connection and realizes he needs to stop the images from coming true. When rewriting the story doesn't work, he knows he has to stop the visions - and his own life. Suddenly a girl shows up and she knows what he's going through and knows how to help him, without resorting to suicide. Is she the answer to his prayers, or does she have something sinister up her sleeve.
The book started out pretty good. Being such a short book (only 103 pages) it went by really quickly, but in doing so, lacked certain things like character development and other elements that draw out the story. It could have been slowed down. I would have like to have been invested more in the characters and seen more of the visions and incidents connected to them. However, for a quick chill, it works...up until the climax when we learn the truth. I personally rolled by eyes but maybe my expectations are too high. Then everything got wrapped up in a neat little bow, which seemed to easy - especially when the villain is supposedly "partially immortal." Again, maybe my expectations are too high but I think this novel could have pushed for more.
Based on the size of the novel, I think it's aimed either lower level readers or hesitant readers. It's a scary story simple enough to draw them into the world of reading without overwhelming them. It does a decent job in that aspect. Aiming for simplistic, though, makes it just that - simplistic. I thought the book had more potential than it achieved.
Omar has this problem where he has horrifying visions of people's deaths. He takes these visions and turns them into stories that he posts online because, as far as he's concerned, these are just weird dreams. Suddenly, though, his stories are coming true - starting with the murder of a former friend. Once it happens again, he makes the connection and realizes he needs to stop the images from coming true. When rewriting the story doesn't work, he knows he has to stop the visions - and his own life. Suddenly a girl shows up and she knows what he's going through and knows how to help him, without resorting to suicide. Is she the answer to his prayers, or does she have something sinister up her sleeve.
The book started out pretty good. Being such a short book (only 103 pages) it went by really quickly, but in doing so, lacked certain things like character development and other elements that draw out the story. It could have been slowed down. I would have like to have been invested more in the characters and seen more of the visions and incidents connected to them. However, for a quick chill, it works...up until the climax when we learn the truth. I personally rolled by eyes but maybe my expectations are too high. Then everything got wrapped up in a neat little bow, which seemed to easy - especially when the villain is supposedly "partially immortal." Again, maybe my expectations are too high but I think this novel could have pushed for more.
Based on the size of the novel, I think it's aimed either lower level readers or hesitant readers. It's a scary story simple enough to draw them into the world of reading without overwhelming them. It does a decent job in that aspect. Aiming for simplistic, though, makes it just that - simplistic. I thought the book had more potential than it achieved.
February 16, 2011
Omar wants to eventually be a published horror writer, and for now, he posts his stories on his Facebook page, where he receives positive feedback from his friends. When a former friend is found murdered in the same fashion as the story he recently posted on Facebook, her father, a police officer, zeroes in on Omar as a suspect. Then a horrible ferry accident occurs .. one that mirrors a story Omar posted the day before. As Omar's visions begin to occur more frequently, and a voice dictates to him what to write, he tries to keep himself from chronicling what he know feels will come true if he actually writes it down.
Sophie is a Goth girl from his school who tells him that she is the same as he is; that her art used to have the same consequences. She promises to show him how to put an end to the visions, but will the cure be worse than the curse? Will she be able to help him or will she only hurt him more?
This is a short, novella-type of read, so there isn't a whole lot of room for character development; however, it is written in simple and clear prose that is perfect for the target audience of middle school to high school students. As an adult reader, this one gave me what all good stories should give: the "what comes next?" feeling. Although it is a horror story, it is not a gruesome, graphic one, and I don't think that most parents would have any objection to the content. The first quote below lists what I feel to be the most graphic scene, so as a parent, you can be the judge.
I would recommend this one for middle readers, and especially for reluctant boy readers.
QUOTES
She pointed at the far side of the boulder. On the ground was a clump of human hair.
"You're in deep, deep trouble."
"I know."
"I mean, like Biblical trouble, Omar. Like the-devil-wants-your-soul trouble."
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Plot: 4 out of 5 stars
Characters: 3 out of 5 stars
Reading Immersion: 4 out 5 stars
BOOK RATING: 3.75 out of 5 stars
Sophie is a Goth girl from his school who tells him that she is the same as he is; that her art used to have the same consequences. She promises to show him how to put an end to the visions, but will the cure be worse than the curse? Will she be able to help him or will she only hurt him more?
This is a short, novella-type of read, so there isn't a whole lot of room for character development; however, it is written in simple and clear prose that is perfect for the target audience of middle school to high school students. As an adult reader, this one gave me what all good stories should give: the "what comes next?" feeling. Although it is a horror story, it is not a gruesome, graphic one, and I don't think that most parents would have any objection to the content. The first quote below lists what I feel to be the most graphic scene, so as a parent, you can be the judge.
I would recommend this one for middle readers, and especially for reluctant boy readers.
QUOTES
She pointed at the far side of the boulder. On the ground was a clump of human hair.
"You're in deep, deep trouble."
"I know."
"I mean, like Biblical trouble, Omar. Like the-devil-wants-your-soul trouble."
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Plot: 4 out of 5 stars
Characters: 3 out of 5 stars
Reading Immersion: 4 out 5 stars
BOOK RATING: 3.75 out of 5 stars
May 24, 2011
Author: Shirley Duke
Release: October 2010
Genre: Fiction, YA, Horror, Thriller
Source: Netgalley
Rating: 3/5
Descrption: Omar Phillips is Bridgewater High's favorite local teen author. His Facebook fans can't wait for his next horror story. But lately Omar's imagination has turned against him. Horrifying visions of death and destruction come over him with wide-screen intensity. The only way to stop the visions is to write them down. Until they start coming true... Enter Sophie Minax, the mysterious Goth girl who's been following Omar at school. "I'm one of you," Sophie says. She tells Omar how to end the visionsbut the only thing worse than Sophie's cure may be what happens if he ignores it.
Review: Omar dreams of becoming a published horror writer. Until that day comes, he's satisfied with using his Facebook page to share his writings. What his fans don't know is, Omar's stories come from his dreams. As soon as he has them, he's compelled to write it down. But when his stories become reality, police zero in on Omar is a possible suspect. Realizing what's happening, Omar tries to find ways to fight the urge to write his dreams down. All seems lost until he meets Sophie, a Goth girl who claims to be just like him. The problem is, Sophie may not be who she says she is...
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE:
* The story was too short. The book is just under 100 pages and it felt rushed.
* Because the book was short, the characters were not developed properly. Had Ms. Duke made the book longer, the characters would've had more depth.
WHAT I DID LIKE
* Despite the fact that it felt rushed, it was a fast read. There wasn't a moment of boredom while I read it and I finished it in one reading. It caught my attention from the beginning and held it til the end.
* It had an awesome creepy feeling to it...had horror without being gory
If you're into good horror stories, Ms. Duke's, Unthinkable, is the story for you.
Release: October 2010
Genre: Fiction, YA, Horror, Thriller
Source: Netgalley
Rating: 3/5
Descrption: Omar Phillips is Bridgewater High's favorite local teen author. His Facebook fans can't wait for his next horror story. But lately Omar's imagination has turned against him. Horrifying visions of death and destruction come over him with wide-screen intensity. The only way to stop the visions is to write them down. Until they start coming true... Enter Sophie Minax, the mysterious Goth girl who's been following Omar at school. "I'm one of you," Sophie says. She tells Omar how to end the visionsbut the only thing worse than Sophie's cure may be what happens if he ignores it.
Review: Omar dreams of becoming a published horror writer. Until that day comes, he's satisfied with using his Facebook page to share his writings. What his fans don't know is, Omar's stories come from his dreams. As soon as he has them, he's compelled to write it down. But when his stories become reality, police zero in on Omar is a possible suspect. Realizing what's happening, Omar tries to find ways to fight the urge to write his dreams down. All seems lost until he meets Sophie, a Goth girl who claims to be just like him. The problem is, Sophie may not be who she says she is...
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE:
* The story was too short. The book is just under 100 pages and it felt rushed.
* Because the book was short, the characters were not developed properly. Had Ms. Duke made the book longer, the characters would've had more depth.
WHAT I DID LIKE
* Despite the fact that it felt rushed, it was a fast read. There wasn't a moment of boredom while I read it and I finished it in one reading. It caught my attention from the beginning and held it til the end.
* It had an awesome creepy feeling to it...had horror without being gory
If you're into good horror stories, Ms. Duke's, Unthinkable, is the story for you.
May 6, 2011
Amazon summary: Omar Phillips is Bridgewater High's favorite local teen author. His Facebook fans can't wait for his next horror story. But lately Omar's imagination has turned against him. Horrifying visions of death and destruction come over him with wide-screen intensity. The only way to stop the visions is to write them down. Until they start coming true... Enter Sophie Minax, the mysterious Goth girl who's been following Omar at school. "I'm one of you," Sophie says. She tells Omar how to end the visions but the only thing worse than Sophie's cure may be what happens if he ignores it.
My review: There won't be much to this review, I'm afraid. The Amazon summary tells you everything about the book. There wasn't much more to it than that. I was very disappointed with the hour I spent reading this book. It felt like a waste in the end.
Why do I have such negative feelings for this book? That's easy... It shouldn't be called a book (for starters). It was more like a long short story. The characters were boring-- no development at all. I couldn't relate to anyone. In fact, they didn't even seem real. It felt like I was reading fictional people. No personality, no depth. (sigh) On top of that, the plot was too predictable. After the first killing you knew exactly what was going to happen.
I gave the story 2 stars because the idea was unique, but that was it. I would not buy a paper copy of this book.
My review: There won't be much to this review, I'm afraid. The Amazon summary tells you everything about the book. There wasn't much more to it than that. I was very disappointed with the hour I spent reading this book. It felt like a waste in the end.
Why do I have such negative feelings for this book? That's easy... It shouldn't be called a book (for starters). It was more like a long short story. The characters were boring-- no development at all. I couldn't relate to anyone. In fact, they didn't even seem real. It felt like I was reading fictional people. No personality, no depth. (sigh) On top of that, the plot was too predictable. After the first killing you knew exactly what was going to happen.
I gave the story 2 stars because the idea was unique, but that was it. I would not buy a paper copy of this book.
March 26, 2019
At just over 100 pages, this is a very short book. Thank goodness. Perhaps I'm just not the target audience, but I found this story to be pretty lacking in every aspect.
The basic premise was not that bad, but the whole book felt extremely rushed. There was a lot of telling and not enough showing, and some parts were skimmed through so quickly that I felt like even the author didn't care about what was happening. If the author doesn't care, why should the reader? At times, I felt like I was reading a synopsis instead of an actual book.
Because the book is so short, we never really get a sense of the characters; the author had to resort to caricatures to let us know who was good and who was evil. I was rolling my eyes and giggling to myself throughout. I'm pretty sure that's not the reaction one is supposed to get from reading "horror".
The only thing that's really scary is that this is marketed toward teens. I think I would have been insulted if someone had told my teenage self that this was the sort of book I was supposed to like. The tone seems way too juvenile to have the YA rating (and yet there's some subject matter in the story that I don't think would be appropriate for younger readers).
For a much better book with a similar premise, I'd recommend Draw the Dark by Ilsa J. Bick.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lerner Publishing Group for providing a digital ARC.
http://theladybugreads.blogspot.ca/20...
The basic premise was not that bad, but the whole book felt extremely rushed. There was a lot of telling and not enough showing, and some parts were skimmed through so quickly that I felt like even the author didn't care about what was happening. If the author doesn't care, why should the reader? At times, I felt like I was reading a synopsis instead of an actual book.
Because the book is so short, we never really get a sense of the characters; the author had to resort to caricatures to let us know who was good and who was evil. I was rolling my eyes and giggling to myself throughout. I'm pretty sure that's not the reaction one is supposed to get from reading "horror".
The only thing that's really scary is that this is marketed toward teens. I think I would have been insulted if someone had told my teenage self that this was the sort of book I was supposed to like. The tone seems way too juvenile to have the YA rating (and yet there's some subject matter in the story that I don't think would be appropriate for younger readers).
For a much better book with a similar premise, I'd recommend Draw the Dark by Ilsa J. Bick.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lerner Publishing Group for providing a digital ARC.
http://theladybugreads.blogspot.ca/20...
February 12, 2011
OK. I knew what I was getting into when I was starting this. The blurb made it perfectly clear that UNTHINKABLE fell under horror/fantasy. But I was kind of hoping it would lean more in favor of the former than the latter (as the first 60 pages indicated). Let’s just say that those pages are reminiscent of Johnny Depp in Secret Window and Timothy Hutton in Dark Half… (awesome movie btw.)
Reminiscent. Yup, but think of UNTHINKABLE as their much younger, but very distant cousin. It’s got a lot of the same cool elements but toned down enough to allow a 12 year old to like. Even the first scene struck me as Blair Witch-y with Omar’s MC’s ‘tell my mother I love her’ speech.
But as I’ve said, it doesn’t stay there. Too bad. It was actually quite good. Because the events sometime after page 60 were enough for me to go, “Are you really going there?!” Think about it this way, the revelation is as abrupt as can b . Well, not so far out, seeing as how the MC thinks he causes death by writing. I was just kind of hoping for a DI disorder, where one of his personalities was actually the baddie with another of his personalities writing about it… But nope.
All said: UNTHINKABLE could be construed as the Dark Half’s distant cousin with a lot of Soul Screamers thrown into the mix. Enjoyable enough (112 pages) but that’s it.
Reminiscent. Yup, but think of UNTHINKABLE as their much younger, but very distant cousin. It’s got a lot of the same cool elements but toned down enough to allow a 12 year old to like. Even the first scene struck me as Blair Witch-y with Omar’s MC’s ‘tell my mother I love her’ speech.
But as I’ve said, it doesn’t stay there. Too bad. It was actually quite good. Because the events sometime after page 60 were enough for me to go, “Are you really going there?!” Think about it this way, the revelation is as abrupt as can b . Well, not so far out, seeing as how the MC thinks he causes death by writing. I was just kind of hoping for a DI disorder, where one of his personalities was actually the baddie with another of his personalities writing about it… But nope.
All said: UNTHINKABLE could be construed as the Dark Half’s distant cousin with a lot of Soul Screamers thrown into the mix. Enjoyable enough (112 pages) but that’s it.
January 16, 2011
**Courtesy of NetGalley
Pub Date: 10/01/10
Unthinkable is one of those books that jumps straight into the action, and into one of Omar's horror stories. Omar is somewhat of a local celeb at Bridgewater High, with well over 1,100 Facebook fans. Everyone tunes in to read the next installment of his disturbing tales.
But then the stories come true.
Omar is fueled by a robotic voice inside his head, pushing him to write the next macabre incident. And Omar learns that he can't stop writing when the lifelike visions enter his head. No matter what he does, the story writes itself--and he can't change a single word.
Sophie is Bridgewater High's resident freak, a goth chick who has all the right answers for Omar's nightmarish daydreams. She knows how to end them, but Omar is the one who has to do it. Only he can stop his visions. He just never thought it meant killing someone.
While this story is a quick, quick read (100 pages), that's about all it is. It reads as more of MG, something like the Fear Street books. I wish the characters would've been fleshed out a little more, which would've added several pages to the story. I felt like I barely knew them (or had time to know them) when it ended, and, even at that, the ending was rushed.
Pub Date: 10/01/10
Unthinkable is one of those books that jumps straight into the action, and into one of Omar's horror stories. Omar is somewhat of a local celeb at Bridgewater High, with well over 1,100 Facebook fans. Everyone tunes in to read the next installment of his disturbing tales.
But then the stories come true.
Omar is fueled by a robotic voice inside his head, pushing him to write the next macabre incident. And Omar learns that he can't stop writing when the lifelike visions enter his head. No matter what he does, the story writes itself--and he can't change a single word.
Sophie is Bridgewater High's resident freak, a goth chick who has all the right answers for Omar's nightmarish daydreams. She knows how to end them, but Omar is the one who has to do it. Only he can stop his visions. He just never thought it meant killing someone.
While this story is a quick, quick read (100 pages), that's about all it is. It reads as more of MG, something like the Fear Street books. I wish the characters would've been fleshed out a little more, which would've added several pages to the story. I felt like I barely knew them (or had time to know them) when it ended, and, even at that, the ending was rushed.
July 22, 2011
If you like horror, then this is the book for you. Imagine being popular in high school for the horror stories you write. This may not seem like much unless you are the teen writing them. Omar Phillips posts his stories on Facebook. His friends can’t wait to read the next story. But something is wrong. Suddenly things have changed and Omar is having visions that he must write down. He can’t seem to stop his hands. No matter where he is or what he’s doing he must stop and write the story. Everyone loves it until his stories start coming true. The police think he is responsible and his friends are beginning to stay away from him. Then the strange and unpopular Goth girl at school seeks Omar out and tells him she knows what he is going through. She insists they are alike and she can help him. The question is, at what cost?
I really enjoyed this book. The stories Omar wrote were very intense. I could feel the fear all through the book. This is an author I will definitely read again.
I really enjoyed this book. The stories Omar wrote were very intense. I could feel the fear all through the book. This is an author I will definitely read again.
May 16, 2011
What if every story you wrote down came true? If you ask me that is pretty creepy but I love this plot. Not only was it unique but I love that the main character was boy who was a writer. His stories are creepy and very detailing. For a young writer, he has some great potential.
The plot was good. Very good. I love how he was compelled to write as if he couldn't control it. He needed to write, to get it out. He had no idea that they will come true. I love how the plot twist with the new character Sophie. The twists and turn in the plot were creepy and messed up. I would have never thought it to be that way.
My only gripe about this book is that it is short. Its only 116 pages so I finished this real fast. I was hoping to learn more about Omar and the wonderful creepy stories he writes. Unthinkable is a great, creepy book. The only thing I can compare it to is The Secret Window but with a teen writer. Great creepy stories that makes you wonder how in the world did they ever come to life?
The plot was good. Very good. I love how he was compelled to write as if he couldn't control it. He needed to write, to get it out. He had no idea that they will come true. I love how the plot twist with the new character Sophie. The twists and turn in the plot were creepy and messed up. I would have never thought it to be that way.
My only gripe about this book is that it is short. Its only 116 pages so I finished this real fast. I was hoping to learn more about Omar and the wonderful creepy stories he writes. Unthinkable is a great, creepy book. The only thing I can compare it to is The Secret Window but with a teen writer. Great creepy stories that makes you wonder how in the world did they ever come to life?
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