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How to Sell a Haunted House
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How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix - October 2023 Theme BOM - HORROR (starts 16 Oct)
DQs Day 5 chapters 32 - end 19. I was excited that Louise and Mark were going to contact Aunt Gail. I liked meeting Barb. I was surprised that they could not really help, and suddenly, we were back where we started, in the creepy house with the puppets. Why do you think Barb and Aunt Gail were in the story?
My best guess was comic relief and even if they did demons and this is a ghost, it made no sense that they didn’t come back to the house and all. One of those circles might have helped keep the ghost from hopping to CA.
20. I found the horror of Poppy’s plight with Pupkin to be the most concerning. Did you find the horror in this book effective? Which parts creeped you out the most?
I saw it coming because it was the logical next step. I tend to find this author’s set up more creepy than the reveal and execution.
21. Gary Hendrix is also known for his humor. I laughed out loud when the puppets got together to form a golem. What parts (if any) did you find humorous?
I didn’t find it that funny. I do like the idea of the squirrel nativity and Barb and the extended family were more fun.
22. I was shaking my head when Louise gave her daughter her stuffed animals. I would want no part of that house to be a part of my daughter’s life! How did you feel about that part?
I think the fact they were hiding meant that they were good but still a bit too active for me. Time to start anew.
23. How do you feel about the ending?
It was kind of a let down. It felt like it ended rather quickly. Also, for horror, this book had a low body count.
BOM Tracking
Day 1 - https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Day 2 - https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Day 5 - here
DQs Day 5 chapters 32 - end19. I was excited that Louise and Mark were going to contact Aunt Gail. I liked meeting Barb. I was surprised that they could not really help, and suddenly, we were back where we started, in the creepy house with the puppets. Why do you think Barb and Aunt Gail were in the story?
Comic relief and backstory.
20. I found the horror of Poppy’s plight with Pupkin to be the most concerning. Did you find the horror in this book effective? Which parts creeped you out the most?
The whole thing creeped me out. This was not the book for me as I already had a thing about puppets and clowns.
Oh, and the eye thing.
21. Gary Hendrix is also known for his humor. I laughed out loud when the puppets got together to form a golem. What parts (if any) did you find humorous?
What I found humorous is not unique to this book. Why don't people who are in a scary/horror situation keep their clothes on? Every single time!
22. I was shaking my head when Louise gave her daughter her stuffed animals. I would want no part of that house to be a part of my daughter’s life! How did you feel about that part?
I was fine with that part. She got to keep something non-toxic from her childhood.
23. How do you feel about the ending?
My thing was how did that 5 year old get so nasty? I have seen some horrible children before, but unless I missed it Freddie wasn't described as being a needy sociopath. So it seemed a bit deus ex machina to me.
Day 3: Chapters 16-2210. Pupkin is,,, alive??? Okay, no big surprise there to be honest, but we did finally get some interesting background info from Louise and Mark's childhood, even if that's not how Louise remembers it. Do you think she really doesn't remember, has simply forgotten, due to trauma or it just having happened way too long ago, or does she remember but chooses not to acknowledge it? Or maybe Mark misremembers himself and it didn't even happen (that way at least)? They were both still very young after all, Mark especially. Is it possible to remember something that happened when you were only two years old?
I believe it happened and it’s possible that Louise is trying to not acknowledge it. Or it’s possible that she made up parts of that story so much that she now believes it as a memory.
11. The second perspective adds a new layer, however it only got added halfway through the book. Were you surprised we got Mark's POV at all, and would you have preferred for it to be there from the beginning of the book? Also, has this last section changed your opinion on him in any way? He did save Louise from Pupkin after all....
As someone who reads a lot of domestic thrillers, I kind of get sick of changing timelines and different POVs. It’s a trend that’s been going on for years and I would prefer to have the story told through one perspective. A talented author will give it deeper and more thorough meaning through one perspective. Since I didn’t hate Mark (I knew his description was biased through Louise’s perspective), my opinion didn’t change when he saved his sister.
12. To me, the last chapter feels a bit like a fever dream, definitely like they were on drugs. I personally don't remember which MPGs the book has and don't want to check in case of 'spoilers' now, but do you think there's a possibility the house, our main characters, the puppets, the dolls, Pupkin, everything- isn't actually haunted and none of it is actually happening?? What if it's just a dream (which would be the worst ending ngl), mental problems like Louise wants to believe, or mold in the house that's effecting them like this plus possible drug use from Mark when he was away?
Since I already read this book and read a lot of Grady Hendrix, I know it’s a horror. He does write some wacky horror novels though.
13. I can't help but wonder how the book is gonna end... If Pupkin is indeed an evil puppet come to life I only see one way it can be destroyed - fire. Do you think they'll end up burning down the entire house (although Hill House (in the show at least) wouldn't let itself be burned down either, so who knows if that would work), or will the dolls and puppets take over? What do you predict will happen in the rest of the book?
This was a reread and I already know the ending of the book.
Jenny's links-Day 1- https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Day 2- https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Day 3- https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
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Day 5- https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
DQs Day 5 chapters 32 - end19. I was excited that Louise and Mark were going to contact Aunt Gail. I liked meeting Barb. I was surprised that they could not really help, and suddenly, we were back where we started, in the creepy house with the puppets. Why do you think Barb and Aunt Gail were in the story?
Perhaps to give a sense of family? Aunt Gail to help save the day of course.
20. I found the horror of Poppy’s plight with Pupkin to be the most concerning. Did you find the horror in this book effective? Which parts creeped you out the most?
The horror was very good and I thought effective...I will say that I'm not a horror genre reader as I just read them for this challenge it seems. I always prefer a HEA.
21. Gary Hendrix is also known for his humor. I laughed out loud when the puppets got together to form a golem. What parts (if any) did you find humorous?
The giant puppet golem was pretty weird/funny...the choices for puppets period were funny and kinda deranged. Some of the family interactions with Barb and Gail were fun too.
22. I was shaking my head when Louise gave her daughter her stuffed animals. I would want no part of that house to be a part of my daughter’s life! How did you feel about that part?
I cringed big time. I am serious puppet adverse after reading this book!
23. How do you feel about the ending?
As close to a HEA you're going to get with a horror novel I think.
I did reflect on this Pupkin character's name...'pup' for puppet, 'kin' for family...I thought...huh...it kinda makes sense with the tie to the family ghost possessing the puppet...just a thought.
Participation PostDay1 | https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
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Day4 | https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Day5 | https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
DQs Day 5 chapters 32 - end19. I was excited that Louise and Mark were going to contact Aunt Gail. I liked meeting Barb. I was surprised that they could not really help, and suddenly, we were back where we started, in the creepy house with the puppets. Why do you think Barb and Aunt Gail were in the story?
Barb and Aunt Gail were ultimately in the story to lead us into our resolution - reveal that Pupkin was essentially possessed by Freddie's ghost and he needed to figure out what happened and moved on. They give us context for the rest of the story.
20. I found the horror of Poppy’s plight with Pupkin to be the most concerning. Did you find the horror in this book effective? Which parts creeped you out the most?
I will say the horror never made me feel afraid to walk around my house at night (which I feel is the hallmark of a 5 star horror for me), but it gave me the heebie jeebies and made me want to vomit, so that is more than effective. Honestly, as creepy as the whole puppet thing was, the "gore" type scenes (think needle and circular saw) honestly were the worst and got a visceral reaction.
21. Gary Hendrix is also known for his humor. I laughed out loud when the puppets got together to form a golem. What parts (if any) did you find humorous?
I have to go back to the hug between Mark and Louise where they both thought they were comforting one another - it got a giggle.
22. I was shaking my head when Louise gave her daughter her stuffed animals. I would want no part of that house to be a part of my daughter’s life! How did you feel about that part?
Effed up sequel, maybe? I just feel like it's gonna open a whole other can of worms.
23. How do you feel about the ending?
I think it wrapped up nicely (and lets face it, in this housing market no one cares about haunting or murders so totally logical as well). We got a big crescendo battle and resolved the main issue, but then we got the perfect ending for the "acceptance" stage. I didn't think Hendrix was going to wrap the plot up with a bow like he did, but I can't say I'm mad at it.
Participation Post:Day 1: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Day 2: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
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DQs Day 1Ch 1 to Ch 7
1.) What are your first impressions of the family and of Louise and Mark? How pivotal do you think their relationship (or lack thereof) will play in the story.
Aside: I plan to steal and use the phrase "Terminal Assholism" in future. Thank you Hendrix!
Mark is coming off as a real jerk. It was awful that he didn't tell his sister for 48 hours that their parents had been killed and then the way he told her the details! So thoughtless. People can fixate on those facts in an accident and it just sticks in your brain forever. Absolutely, no reason to traumatize Louise like that. He seems very immature and callous.
2.) The book is organized into sections following the 5 stages of grief. Does this impact your expectations of the book at all?
I'm listening to it and if the narrator read those section words out loud, I must have missed it. I have the print book too and just looked at it and see them clear as day. I'm going to listen more carefully to see if they're on the audio too. As a retired counselor I think having those five stages are a great way to order the book. Louise is certainly in Denial in the beginning, which is perfectly normal of course.
3.) Okay. Life size dolls named after her children. Weird, creepy? Would you be excited to have them as part of your inheritance?
They sound so creepy to me, but what is more concerning is that the mother seemed to think of them as her own real life children. I'm guessing she's going to turn out to be a little "off".
4.) Have you ever experienced a family post-death squabble/fight like the one Louise and Mark had in front of the junk clean out guys?
Not like the one in the book, but in my experience and most of my friends experiences there has been difficulty with that one person in the family who is selfish and wants to grab the most valuable items. Judith, interesting that your husband is a funeral director. Learned something new about you. I'm sure some of his stories would be very entertaining.
5.) Did anyone else google Fellowship of Christian Puppeteers? If so, were you surprised to find they were a real organization? Has anyone interacted with them before or a similar organization for other religious beliefs? [note: please keep responses respectful to people's beliefs, this is a safe space
No, I did not Google it. I am very active in our church and we don't have puppets or dabble in puppetry. In my work as a counselor with young children, I did use some puppets at times, which could be helpful, and little children are drawn to them for entertainment, but I had no idea such an organization existed.
DQs Day 5 chapters 32 - end19. I was excited that Louise and Mark were going to contact Aunt Gail. I liked meeting Barb. I was surprised that they could not really help, and suddenly, we were back where we started, in the creepy house with the puppets. Why do you think Barb and Aunt Gail were in the story?
Comic relief! Honestly I kind of wish I had known going into this book that it was going to have a campy vibe - I think I was overthinking the beginning because I was expecting a crazy twist (which, granted there still was one, but it was all way more over the top than I expected).
20. I found the horror of Poppy’s plight with Pupkin to be the most concerning. Did you find the horror in this book effective? Which parts creeped you out the most?
OMG Poppy with Pupkin was THE WORST. The whole amputation situation was bad too - but I think I was kind of in disbelief about it actually happening because it was all so nonchalant. LOL
21. Gary Hendrix is also known for his humor. I laughed out loud when the puppets got together to form a golem. What parts (if any) did you find humorous?
THE PUPPET GOLEM! For some reason the only thing going through my head at that point was the Winnie-the-Pooh horror movie that came out this year - with the outrageously ridiculous looking costume the actor wore.
Again, I really wish I knew it was going to have a campy vibe going in. I feel like the amputation scene was where I really started to catch on to that - and I almost feel like I missed some funny things overthinking what the twist would be.
22. I was shaking my head when Louise gave her daughter her stuffed animals. I would want no part of that house to be a part of my daughter’s life! How did you feel about that part?
RIGHT! I definitely would have been creeped out about that. Kind of remind me of how ridiculous I thought the ending of Hitchcock's The Birds was... we all survived this crazy thing so let's all drive off happily into the sunset like it never happened. WHAT? haha
23. How do you feel about the ending?
I think it was a good ending for the story we were given! Definitely excited to check out some more of his books. (Which is good because I have to read one for a book club on Wednesday!)
DQs Day 1Ch 1 to Ch 7
1.) What are your first impressions of the family and of Louise and Mark? How pivotal do you think their relationship (or lack thereof) will play in the story.
Sadly it seems typical of a lot of families I know where one sibling leaves the area and the other is close by and ends up taking on a lot of the responsibilities. Mark still seems like a tool, but idk how much of that is justified on his end. I’m sure this will continue to be a pivotal and developing part of the story.
2.) The book is organized into sections following the 5 stages of grief. Does this impact your expectations of the book at all?
Not really letting it play into any expectations, but I think it’s an interesting choice.
3.) Okay. Life size dolls named after her children. Weird, creepy? Would you be excited to have them as part of your inheritance?
I love it. Creepier the better!!! Hahaha. I wouldn’t want to have them on display in my own home, mostly bc I’ve become a minimalist, but I think they sound awesome lol.
4.) Have you ever experienced a family post-death squabble/fight like the one Louise and Mark had in front of the junk clean out guys?
Luckily I have not. When my gma had to stop living alone and move in with my aunt, we went through her home and belongings then, and there was a bit of unnecessary drama. 🙄🙄
5.) Did anyone else google Fellowship of Christian Puppeteers? If so, were you surprised to find they were a real organization? Has anyone interacted with them before or a similar organization for other religious beliefs?
I didn’t think to Google it. Lol. That’s awesome that it’s a real one organization. I don’t really partake in any organized religion any longer.
DQs #3: 10. Pupkin is,,, alive??? Okay, no big surprise there to be honest, but we did finally get some interesting background info from Louise and Mark's childhood, even if that's not how Louise remembers it. Do you think she really doesn't remember, has simply forgotten, due to trauma or it just having happened way too long ago, or does she remember but chooses not to acknoledge it? Or maybe Mark misremembers himself and it didn't even happen (that way at least)? They were both still very young after all, Mark especially. Is it possible to remember something that happened when you were only two years old?
I think we all have the tendency and capacity for remaking narratives and selecting aspects of a story and making it our own truth. Not a surprise that they have different versions of their childhood and certainly trauma impacts this as well.
11. The second perspective adds a new layer, however it only got added halfway through the book. Were you surprised we got Mark's POV at all, and would you have preferred for it to be there from the beginning of the book? Also, has this last section changed your opinion on him in any way? He did save Louise from Pupkin after all....
I had Mark pegged as a bad guy so humanizing him and clearly making him subject to various trauma either continues this narrative or gives us reason to think they can overcome their history together.
I'm glad we got his perspective and it did shift my opinion towards him being not so horrible (although still pretty terrible!).
12. To me, the last chapter feels a bit like a fever dream, definitely like they were on drugs. I personally don't remember which MPGs the book has and don't want to check in case of 'spoilers' now, but do you think there's a possibility the house, our main characters, the puppets, the dolls, Pupkin, everything- isn't actually haunted and none of it is actually happening?? What if it's just a dream (which would be the worst ending ngl), mental problems like Louise wants to believe, or mold in the house that's effecting them like this plus possible drug use from Mark when he was away?
I did wonder at one point about mental illness but I think it clearly goes the way of just creepy puppets. The idea that it's all made up is an interesting one though.
13. I can't help but wonder how the book is gonna end... If Pupkin is indeed an evil puppet come to life I only see one way it can be destroyed - fire. Do you think they'll end up burning down the entire house (although Hill House (in the show at least) wouldn't let itself be burned down either, so who knows if that would work), or will the dolls and puppets take over? What do you predict will happen in the rest of the book?
I already finished so no spoilers but how do you ever kill something that is evil and yet not alive in the human sense? Fire? Basilisk fang? I will say I didn't see it being as complicated as it was with some definite twists and turns. I want no part of Pupkin!
DQs Set 2: Chapters 8 - 156. Were you expecting those wills? Why do you think both parents were so unfair on the kids?
I was somewhat expecting a messy situation when it came to the estates. I honestly want nothing to do with that, it feels so gross to feel entitled to something that belonged to someone else. Major ick.
7. Yikes! killer stuffed squirrels! The first violent haunting here, was it effective?
This was awesome!! I love this sick and demented stuff!!! 😍😍 More more more!!!
8. Despite the various creepy things that Louise has experienced, she's refusing to let her aunt exorcise the house. Would you still be hanging onto rational reasons over accepting family help?
I cleanse my home at least annually. It’s just good to get an energy reset. That said, I’d be fully onboard with an exorcism or anything else.
9. We've had more insight into the childhood of Mark and Louise. Does this change your opinion of either of them?
I can definitely empathize with how they became the people they are today, and how their relationship developed into what it is. After Mark’s little display at the reading of the wills, GROSS, I am hoping one of these dolls unalives him at some point. 😭😂
DQs Day 4: Ch. 23-3114. After Mark's story, the siblings kind of bonded. What did you think of that and the hug. At that point of the story, did you feel like they were going to be unified or that it would be short-lived
I don't know if I can see them being reunited for good; I think it will be kinda like Louise expects it to go - a bit of contact at the beginning which ends up getting less and less until it trickles out and there's only birthday/christmas texts left.
15. So they made a plan to go back in and take care of Pupkin vs. just burning down the house? Why?? Pretend you don't know how that turned out - what would you have decided to do after they both shared their Pupkin experiences?
Whether I would have burned down the whole house or not, I still would have burned Pupkin (and possibly the other dolls, puppets and the squirrel nativity) in a barrel or something beforehand so I could make sure they're all actually burning and gone for good - although we know it wouldn't have changed anything in the end - but Pupkin has gotten out of a burning house before apparently so that would definitely not have done it for him.
16. The battle! I don't even know what to say other than I kept needing to put the book down. Did you expect this level of brutality? Would you have been able to cut off the arm?
This was messyyyyyy holy f*ck. I'm surprised there wasn't more questioning about Louise's story after everything that has been done to her and how BEATEN UP she must have looked. Like, how has this not seemed like domestic violence to anyone?? Is anyone at the hospital doing their job actually??? They're not supposed to just stitch people back up and be done with them...
17. Did you expect Pupkin to show back up like he did?
Well we knew there'd be more coming since there was still quite a bit of book left and it would have been dumb to continue the story without Pupkin, but this is just straight up weird, honestly...
18. What did you think of Gail? If you haven't finished already, what do you think will happen?
I'm honestly still confused about this part tbh and don't think we actually know her well enough - did continue though and then fell asleep so now I have to listen to the last few chapters of the book again lol.
Bonus: Are you systematically removing all puppets from your house now? If so, don't worry - they'll be back =O
THEY'LL BE BACK jeeeeez thanks for that Suzanne!! I was actually about to say there are no puppets in my home - which to be fair there aren't - but there are two soft toys sitting on my bed frame (which I do realize makes me sound like an absolute child now) and ngl I was very aware of them being there when I went to sleep last night...
DQs Day 3; Chapters 16-22 10. Pupkin is,,, alive??? Okay, no big surprise there to be honest, but we did finally get some interesting background info from Louise and Mark's childhood, even if that's not how Louise remembers it. Do you think she really doesn't remember, has simply forgotten, due to trauma or it just having happened way too long ago, or does she remember but chooses not to acknoledge it? Or maybe Mark misremembers himself and it didn't even happen (that way at least)? They were both still very young after all, Mark especially. Is it possible to remember something that happened when you were only two years old?
I think trauma causes the brain to do powerful things, especially considering the events that happen after. It’s very plausible that Louise’s memories could be repressed as a way to protect herself, especially since she was never really pressed to talk about what happened. Also, Mark having vivid memories from that young only makes sense to me with trauma as an explanation. Very possible that them ignoring it and almost gaslighting him into thinking it didn’t happen, caused his brain to hold on to those memories tighter as a way to validate himself.
11. The second perspective adds a new layer, however it only got added halfway through the book. Were you surprised we got Mark's POV at all, and would you have preferred for it to be there from the beginning of the book? Also, has this last section changed your opinion on him in any way? He did save Louise from Pupkin after all....
I kinda like that we got his POV and at a later point. Sometimes when you get both perspectives back to back, it can get muddled but with his being added later it opens a new thought avenue toward the truth.
12. To me, the last chapter feels a bit like a fever dream, definitely like they were on drugs. I personally don't remember which MPGs the book has and don't want to check in case of 'spoilers' now, but do you think there's a possibility the house, our main characters, the puppets, the dolls, Pupkin, everything- isn't actually haunted and none of it is actually happening?? What if it's just a dream (which would be the worst ending ngl), mental problems like Louise wants to believe, or mold in the house that's effecting them like this plus possible drug use from Mark when he was away?
I really dont think we’re dealing with simply mental health issue here. It does feel more like dark energy that the brain isnt ready to accept as real so it makes them feel like they’re losing it or imagining things.
13. I can't help but wonder how the book is gonna end... If Pupkin is indeed an evil puppet come to life I only see one way it can be destroyed - fire. Do you think they'll end up burning down the entire house (although Hill House (in the show at least) wouldn't let itself be burned down either, so who knows if that would work), or will the dolls and puppets take over? What do you predict will happen in the rest of the book?
Honestly, don’t like to predict these things. Find more joy in just letting it unravel, so I typically don’t let my mind wander down that path too much.
Michael, I am totally stealing this line for future use."I am hoping one of these dolls unalives him at some point."
DQs Day 3; Chapters 16-2210. Pupkin is,,, alive??? Okay, no big surprise there to be honest, but we did finally get some interesting background info from Louise and Mark's childhood, even if that's not how Louise remembers it. Do you think she really doesn't remember, has simply forgotten, due to trauma or it just having happened way too long ago, or does she remember but chooses not to acknowledge it? Or maybe Mark misremembers himself and it didn't even happen (that way at least)? They were both still very young after all, Mark especially. Is it possible to remember something that happened when you were only two years old?
I think that Louise blocked it out, but she still clearly can remember what happened when pushed. Mark remembering the way he did, via panic attack, is also believable to me. Age and trauma definitely have a way of screwing with our perceptions of memory.
11. The second perspective adds a new layer, however it only got added halfway through the book. Were you surprised we got Mark's POV at all, and would you have preferred for it to be there from the beginning of the book? Also, has this last section changed your opinion on him in any way? He did save Louise from Pupkin after all....
I'm glad we finally got some backstory on Mark. I don't think it was necessary earlier. Louise wasn't ready to learn anything about Mark, so he didn't get to speak to us.
12. To me, the last chapter feels a bit like a fever dream, definitely like they were on drugs. I personally don't remember which MPGs the book has and don't want to check in case of 'spoilers' now, but do you think there's a possibility the house, our main characters, the puppets, the dolls, Pupkin, everything- isn't actually haunted and none of it is actually happening?? What if it's just a dream (which would be the worst ending ngl), mental problems like Louise wants to believe, or mold in the house that's effecting them like this plus possible drug use from Mark when he was away?
Perception and memory have definitely been played around with several times (the squirrels, the needle) in this story. It could be because of the hauntings or it could be several other things.
13. I can't help but wonder how the book is gonna end... If Pupkin is indeed an evil puppet come to life I only see one way it can be destroyed - fire. Do you think they'll end up burning down the entire house (although Hill House (in the show at least) wouldn't let itself be burned down either, so who knows if that would work), or will the dolls and puppets take over? What do you predict will happen in the rest of the book?
They should burn pupkin, and all the creepy dolls, and sell off the land.
DQs Day 1Ch 1 to Ch 7
1.) What are your first impressions of the family and of Louise and Mark? How pivotal do you think their relationship (or lack thereof) will play in the story.
Aside: I plan to steal and use the phrase "Terminal Assholism" in future. Thank you Hendrix!
As a younger brother to an older sister, there are parts of the relationship I instantly recognized. My sister and I don’t see eye to eye on many things, but there is something to be said about shared trauma, experiences, and familiarity that transcends our differences. I’m willing to bet that as the story continues we will see them get closer and realize they know more of each other than they realize.
2.) The book is organized into sections following the 5 stages of grief. Does this impact your expectations of the book at all?
It’s an entertaining device for sure. Every grief is different, so it’ll be interesting to see the author’s version of grief as presented in the book as I remember my own grief when my parents died.
3.) Okay. Life size dolls named after her children. Weird, creepy? Would you be excited to have them as part of your inheritance?
Nope. Not today, Satan! Dolls in general creep me out. This reminded me of the creepiest dolls I’ve seen though. They were toddler-sized dolls of children that faced the wall like they were playing hide and seek. SO CREEPY!!!!
4.) Have you ever experienced a family post-death squabble/fight like the one Louise and Mark had in front of the junk clean out guys?
Not post-death but my sister and I definitely had some intense arguments in the front lawn, so it was easy to accept the plausibility.
5.) Did anyone else google Fellowship of Christian Puppeteers? If so, were you surprised to find they were a real organization? Has anyone interacted with them before or a similar organization for other religious beliefs? [note: please keep responses respectful to people's beliefs, this is a safe space]
I did not, but I definitely remember a similar puppet ministry that came to the baptist church I attended as a child. I would’ve liked them better if they were more Jim Henson-esque. Reading Louise’s revulsion of Pupkin tells me she absolutely would NOT have liked these ones at ALL!
Day 3: Chapters 16-2210. Pupkin is,,, alive??? Okay, no big surprise there to be honest, but we did finally get some interesting background info from Louise and Mark's childhood, even if that's not how Louise remembers it. Do you think she really doesn't remember, has simply forgotten, due to trauma or it just having happened way too long ago, or does she remember but chooses not to acknowledge it? Or maybe Mark misremembers himself and it didn't even happen (that way at least)? They were both still very young after all, Mark especially. Is it possible to remember something that happened when you were only two years old?
I do believe it! If Pupkin could make Louise do his bidding, he is truly evil. I have memories, but more like images of learning (from an older cousin) how to climb out of my crib at age 2. She later confirmed that it really did happen.
11. The second perspective adds a new layer, however it only got added halfway through the book. Were you surprised we got Mark's POV at all, and would you have preferred for it to be there from the beginning of the book? Also, has this last section changed your opinion on him in any way? He did save Louise from Pupkin after all....
Mark needed some redeeming qualities desperately! He was written as a total dweeb, greedy and self-indulgent. This is information I would have appreciated to have from the very beginning!
12. To me, the last chapter feels a bit like a fever dream, definitely like they were on drugs. I personally don't remember which MPGs the book has and don't want to check in case of 'spoilers' now, but do you think there's a possibility the house, our main characters, the puppets, the dolls, Pupkin, everything- isn't actually haunted and none of it is actually happening?? What if it's just a dream (which would be the worst ending ngl), mental problems like Louise wants to believe, or mold in the house that's effecting them like this plus possible drug use from Mark when he was away?
Addiction or recreational drug use would explain so much, really! I suppose it could be possible that it could be a fever dream or something… I don’t care much for horror, but do like Hendrix because of the implausibility of the situations. I really enjoyed My Best Friend's Exorcism!
13. I can't help but wonder how the book is gonna end... If Pupkin is indeed an evil puppet come to life I only see one way it can be destroyed - fire. Do you think they'll end up burning down the entire house (although Hill House (in the show at least) wouldn't let itself be burned down either, so who knows if that would work), or will the dolls and puppets take over? What do you predict will happen in the rest of the book?
I am hoping for Pupkin’s demise, of course. Besides burning, they could always chop him up and scatter the pieces…
DQs Day 1Ch 1 to Ch 7
1.) What are your first impressions of the family and of Louise and Mark? How pivotal do you think their relationship (or lack thereof) will play in the story.
Aside: I plan to steal and use the phrase "Terminal Assholism" in future. Thank you Hendrix!
It seems like they will constantly bicker and maybe when Louise tells him about the odd stuff happening in the house, he won't believe her. I hope they do learn to get along though.
2.) The book is organized into sections following the 5 stages of grief. Does this impact your expectations of the book at all?
Not really. I didn't even notice as I am listening to this in audiobook form.
3.) Okay. Life size dolls named after her children. Weird, creepy? Would you be excited to have them as part of your inheritance?
Weird and creepy but I can try and understand the sentiment behind it. I can't say I would be excited to inherit them.
4.) Have you ever experienced a family post-death squabble/fight like the one Louise and Mark had in front of the junk clean out guys?
I witnessed one, but not the actual squabble. My boss was the sister of my mum's boss. Their dad died and didn't leave a will, which of course complicated things. Very long story short, the squabble divided the family.
5.) Did anyone else google Fellowship of Christian Puppeteers? If so, were you surprised to find they were a real organization? Has anyone interacted with them before or a similar organization for other religious beliefs? [note: please keep responses respectful to people's beliefs, this is a safe space]
I have never heard of them before. I'm not sure I want to google it either.
DQs Day 3; Chapters 16-2210. Pupkin is,,, alive??? Okay, no big surprise there to be honest, but we did finally get some interesting background info from Louise and Mark's childhood, even if that's not how Louise remembers it. Do you think she really doesn't remember, has simply forgotten, due to trauma or it just having happened way too long ago, or does she remember but chooses not to acknoledge it? Or maybe Mark misremembers himself and it didn't even happen (that way at least)? They were both still very young after all, Mark especially. Is it possible to remember something that happened when you were only two years old?
I'm going to say it is possible. My mom and brother traveled by bus to Texas when he was 2. He has always remembered every detail of that trip. As for Lousie and Mark, I think that she probably blocked the memory and doesn't want to remember; I think Mark probably remembers.
11. The second perspective adds a new layer, however it only got added halfway through the book. Were you surprised we got Mark's POV at all, and would you have preferred for it to be there from the beginning of the book? Also, has this last section changed your opinion on him in any way? He did save Louise from Pupkin after all....
I like his perspective and I like that it wasn't from the beginning. For me, I wasn't sure what was going on and liked the build up. If I'd have Mark's POV from the start, I think it would have taken away from the wierdness of the story. He's growing on me....
12. To me, the last chapter feels a bit like a fever dream, definitely like they were on drugs. I personally don't remember which MPGs the book has and don't want to check in case of 'spoilers' now, but do you think there's a possibility the house, our main characters, the puppets, the dolls, Pupkin, everything- isn't actually haunted and none of it is actually happening?? What if it's just a dream (which would be the worst ending ngl), mental problems like Louise wants to believe, or mold in the house that's effecting them like this plus possible drug use from Mark when he was away?
I've finished the book, so won't answer more than to say that at no time in the book did I think it was just a dream or Louise making up things for whatever reason. I've read this author before and he is very good at creating these types of settings.
13. I can't help but wonder how the book is gonna end... If Pupkin is indeed an evil puppet come to life I only see one way it can be destroyed - fire. Do you think they'll end up burning down the entire house (although Hill House (in the show at least) wouldn't let itself be burned down either, so who knows if that would work), or will the dolls and puppets take over? What do you predict will happen in the rest of the book?
Can't answer this one as I've already finished and spoilers!
DQs Day 4: Ch. 23-31 14. After Mark's story, the siblings kind of bonded. What did you think of that and the hug. At that point of the story, did you feel like they were going to be unified or that it would be short-lived?
It makes perfect sense that after this they would start to see each other in a different light and mend their relationship. Not sure they’ll ever be super close, but they will hopefully build on it to some sort of lasting relationship.
15. So they made a plan to go back in and take care of Pupkin vs. just burning down the house? Why?? Pretend you don't know how that turned out - what would you have decided to do after they both shared their Pupkin experiences?
I’d probably call in the spiritual reinforcements at this point. Clearly we’re dealing with some strong dark energy here, why would I ever attempt to take care of this alone?
16. The battle! I don't even know what to say other than I kept needing to put the book down. Did you expect this level of brutality? Would you have been able to cut off the arm?
EPIC!!!!!! I loved it!!! 😈😈😈 I would like to say I wouldnt have been able to do it, but adrenaline can make you do some wild things!
17. Did you expect Pupkin to show back up like he did?
To show back up, yes. In this manner, no. I applaud the writing here.
18. What did you think of Gail? If you haven't finished already, what do you think will happen?
Gail seems like she’s seen some ish in her days. I bet she’ll be able to challenge the dark energy and expel it.
Bonus: Are you systematically removing all puppets from your house now? If so, don't worry - they'll be back =O
I was going to, but Pupkin told me I couldn’t. 😔
DQs Day 5 chapters 32 - end 19. I was excited that Louise and Mark were going to contact Aunt Gail. I liked meeting Barb. I was surprised that they could not really help, and suddenly, we were back where we started, in the creepy house with the puppets. Why do you think Barb and Aunt Gail were in the story?
I think they provided background and context to the story and moreso the family as a whole. It was greater than just Nancy and her lineage.
20. I found the horror of Poppy’s plight with Pupkin to be the most concerning. Did you find the horror in this book effective? Which parts creeped you out the most?
It was definitely creepy, but stuff like that doesn’t really get to me. Maybe I’m jaded or over-saturated in content?
21. Gary Hendrix is also known for his humor. I laughed out loud when the puppets got together to form a golem. What parts (if any) did you find humorous?
Literally same. I pictured it so vividly in my mind and legitimately laughed out loud at the thought. Chef’s kiss. 😚👌🏼
22. I was shaking my head when Louise gave her daughter her stuffed animals. I would want no part of that house to be a part of my daughter’s life! How did you feel about that part?
I thought it was sweet, and definitely smart that she had them cleaned both spiritually and physically lol.
23. How do you feel about the ending?
I liked it overall, it was touching that Freddie is finally at rest and complete. Wondering when Pupkin’s Back… to PLAY PLAY PLAY! is gonna hit the shelves!! Bahaha.
Michael's DQ Posts:
Day 1 & 2
Day 3
Day 4 & 5
DQs Set 2: Chapters 8 - 156. Were you expecting those wills? Why do you think both parents were so unfair on the kids?
>>> Maybe tge mom thought that she would be able to take care of herself but that her brother would need help. I think there is always one child that is well put together and then there is the black sheep.
7. Yikes! killer stuffed squirrels! The first violent haunting here, was it effective?
>> If this was a movie here is where I hit the stop button. I am not a fan of horror.
8. Despite the various creepy things that Louise has experienced, she's refusing to let her aunt exorcise the house. Would you still be hanging onto rational reasons over accepting family help?
>> I would give the house to my brother witn everything in it and go back home.
9. We've had more insight into the childhood of Mark and Louise. Does this change your opinion of either of them?
>> Seems like he was the good child and she was spoiled.
DQs Day 3; Chapters 16-2210. Pupkin is,,, alive??? Okay, no big surprise there to be honest, but we did finally get some interesting background info from Louise and Mark's childhood, even if that's not how Louise remembers it. Do you think she really doesn't remember, has simply forgotten, due to trauma or it just having happened way too long ago, or does she remember but chooses not to acknoledge it? Or maybe Mark misremembers himself and it didn't even happen (that way at least)? They were both still very young after all, Mark especially. Is it possible to remember something that happened when you were only two years old?
>> I have some recollections of a young memory and my mom says it happened and doesn't know how I remember. So, yes it is possible to remember at least one incident from childhood.
11. The second perspective adds a new layer, however it only got added halfway through the book. Were you surprised we got Mark's POV at all, and would you have preferred for it to be there from the beginning of the book? Also, has this last section changed your opinion on him in any way? He did save Louise from Pupkin after all....
>> I undedstand him better and feels he loves his sister. I like getting POV from different characters.
12. To me, the last chapter feels a bit like a fever dream, definitely like they were on drugs. I personally don't remember which MPGs the book has and don't want to check in case of 'spoilers' now, but do you think there's a possibility the house, our main characters, the puppets, the dolls, Pupkin, everything- isn't actually haunted and none of it is actually happening?? What if it's just a dream (which would be the worst ending ngl), mental problems like Louise wants to believe, or mold in the house that's effecting them like this plus possible drug use from Mark when he was away?
>> I thought she was dreaming but then Mark confers that he saw what she saw.
13. I can't help but wonder how the book is gonna end... If Pupkin is indeed an evil puppet come to life I only see one way it can be destroyed - fire. Do you think they'll end up burning down the entire house (although Hill House (in the show at least) wouldn't let itself be burned down either, so who knows if that would work), or will the dolls and puppets take over? What do you predict will happen in the rest of the book?
>> I think the puppets can't win in reality. Fire seems to be a good idea.
DQs Set 2: Chapters 8 - 156. Were you expecting those wills? Why do you think both parents were so unfair on the kids?
I was not expecting those wills. I think both parents clearly had different thoughts and expectations of their children. Louise's dad clearly thought of Louise as the more responsible and level-headed of the two children and Louise's mom knew that Mark often felt overshadowed by his sister and needed a chance to prove himself. I'm also a little bit ahead so I can think of some other reasons why Louise's mom left everything to Mark.
7. Yikes! killer stuffed squirrels! The first violent haunting here, was it effective?
Yes and if you've read other books by Grady Hendrix you would know he has a thing for rodents. Yikes.
8. Despite the various creepy things that Louise has experienced, she's refusing to let her aunt exorcise the house. Would you still be hanging onto rational reasons over accepting family help?
At this point in the book I can see how Louise can kind of second guess or gaslight herself into believing all of these occurrences have a rational reason behind them. I have some friends that are really into the paranormal so if they suggested doing an exorcism or cleansing I would probably let them.
9. We've had more insight into the childhood of Mark and Louise. Does this change your opinion of either of them?
I definitely have more empathy for Mark but I always suspected there was more to his story. Both siblings definitely need some therapy though.
DQs Day 3; Chapters 16-2210. Pupkin is,,, alive??? Okay, no big surprise there to be honest, but we did finally get some interesting background info from Louise and Mark's childhood, even if that's not how Louise remembers it. Do you think she really doesn't remember, has simply forgotten, due to trauma or it just having happened way too long ago, or does she remember but chooses not to acknoledge it? Or maybe Mark misremembers himself and it didn't even happen (that way at least)? They were both still very young after all, Mark especially. Is it possible to remember something that happened when you were only two years old?
Louise is definitely trying to convince herself it didn't happen. In her POV chapters it seems like it definitely did happen. However I do agree that it is difficult to remember anything that happened that young even if it was especially traumatic.
11. The second perspective adds a new layer, however it only got added halfway through the book. Were you surprised we got Mark's POV at all, and would you have preferred for it to be there from the beginning of the book? Also, has this last section changed your opinion on him in any way? He did save Louise from Pupkin after all....
I think Mark's POV is in a good place in the book. I think we aren't supposed to realize Louise is somewhat unreliable until now. I always thought there was something more to Mark's behavior than just "acting out/irresponsible younger brother."
12. To me, the last chapter feels a bit like a fever dream, definitely like they were on drugs. I personally don't remember which MPGs the book has and don't want to check in case of 'spoilers' now, but do you think there's a possibility the house, our main characters, the puppets, the dolls, Pupkin, everything- isn't actually haunted and none of it is actually happening?? What if it's just a dream (which would be the worst ending ngl), mental problems like Louise wants to believe, or mold in the house that's effecting them like this plus possible drug use from Mark when he was away?
I've read quite a number of Grady Hendrix books at this point and they all get pretty weird and dreamlike but none of them had the "it was all just a dream" trope. So I would be pretty surprised if this one went that route.
13. I can't help but wonder how the book is gonna end... If Pupkin is indeed an evil puppet come to life I only see one way it can be destroyed - fire. Do you think they'll end up burning down the entire house (although Hill House (in the show at least) wouldn't let itself be burned down either, so who knows if that would work), or will the dolls and puppets take over? What do you predict will happen in the rest of the book?
I can never predict what's going to happen. The burning of the house would be poetic since the parents were ultimately cremated. I could also see the possibility of Mark dying to save Louise. His books usually end on a bittersweet note so I'm hoping for that.
Can anyone remind me- are there no neighbours???
Christina wrote: "Can anyone remind me- are there no neighbours???"Louise mentions that they probably look crazy or low-class to the neighbors
Christina wrote: "Can anyone remind me- are there no neighbours???"There was a neighbor at the end, with the dog who was retrieving the puppets? lol
Yup I just finished and did realize there's a neighbour complaining about her trash in his garden. Interesting how that is an issue for him but someone almost getting murdered next door (several different evenings mind you!) didn't bother him at all...
DQs Day 5 chapters 32 - end19. I was excited that Louise and Mark were going to contact Aunt Gail. I liked meeting Barb. I was surprised that they could not really help, and suddenly, we were back where we started, in the creepy house with the puppets. Why do you think Barb and Aunt Gail were in the story?
I feel like if they had been able to help (outside of the house) it would have been too easy, but since there was mention of exorcising the house before it /they still needed to be included somehow.
20. I found the horror of Poppy’s plight with Pupkin to be the most concerning. Did you find the horror in this book effective? Which parts creeped you out the most?
Poppy and Pupkin definitely, but also every other time Pupkin took over someone else's body. That creeped me out the most I think...
21. Grady Hendrix is also known for his humor. I laughed out loud when the puppets got together to form a golem. What parts (if any) did you find humorous?
That was quite funny, yes, and I can't believe I'm going to admit this online but I also laughed when Pupkin first saw Mark after the amputation and he started singing "chop chop" or whatever it was *hides*
22. I was shaking my head when Louise gave her daughter her stuffed animals. I would want no part of that house to be a part of my daughter’s life! How did you feel about that part?
At first I was surprised that she still trusts them but when we learned that they hid under her bad while all the fighting was going on outside I actually teared up. They didn't want a part in any of this! What I actually can't believe though is that she had taken notice that they weren't part of the gollum - as if she had any time for that!!!
23. How do you feel about the ending?
It definitely made me like the book more than I did halfway through - I honestly thought this was gonna be a 2 star book for most of it, but I did give it 3 stars in the end.
Participation Post:
Day 1 - https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Day 2 - https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Day 3 - https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Day 4 - https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Day 5 - https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
DQs Set 2: Chapters 8 - 156. Were you expecting those wills? Why do you think both parents were so unfair on the kids?
Parents always play favorites. Louise had talked it over with her dad and he felt it was the best way to handle the situation. You get the feeling he wasn’t as forgiving of Mark’s irresponsible behavior as his wife was. On her side, she was more willing to forgive Mark, but didn’t clearly foresee the potential for him being yet again irresponsible with his inheritance.
7. Yikes! killer stuffed squirrels! The first violent haunting here, was it effective?
It was indeed effective, at least to me. Taxidermy is very creepy, especially when it is in bad shape.
8. Despite the various creepy things that Louise has experienced, she's refusing to let her aunt exorcise the house. Would you still be hanging onto rational reasons over accepting family help?
Louise is extremely rational-minded and even though the house is making her feel creeped out, she is still coming up with plausible excuses for what she’s seen. Personally, I would’ve agreed whether I believed or not since it apparently would raise the value.
9. We've had more insight into the childhood of Mark and Louise. Does this change your opinion of either of them?
Mark is just as much a manipulative asshat as I previously thought. As a former gifted kid who wasted his potential myself, I understand some of the mentality, but I would never treat my sister the way he treats Louise. At some point, you have to be an adult without having others guilt you into being responsible.
DQs Day 4: Ch. 23-3114. After Mark's story, the siblings kind of bonded. What did you think of that and the hug. At that point of the story, did you feel like they were going to be unified or that it would be short-lived?
I like the fact that they shared a genuine laugh and an awkward hug.
Mixed feelings. After being estranged for as long as they had, I'm not sure they will ever be close; although, they will probably keep in contact now. I did see this making them work together to stop the insanity.
15. So they made a plan to go back in and take care of Pupkin vs. just burning down the house? Why?? Pretend you don't know how that turned out - what would you have decided to do after they both shared their Pupkin experiences?
The plan was good. The timing was much like hiding behind the chainsaws instead of leaving in the running car if a serial killer is chasing you! Daylight would be when I wanted to do anything in this town.
16. The battle! I don't even know what to say other than I kept needing to put the book down. Did you expect this level of brutality? Would you have been able to cut off the arm?
Nope and I'm not buying this section of the book. Yes, you will probably fight to not die, but there is only so much you can do running on adrenaline. Honestly, no idea what I would do in that situation.
17. Did you expect Pupkin to show back up like he did?
I did expect it, but not in the way it went down.
18. What did you think of Gail? If you haven't finished already, what do you think will happen?
She is definitely another branch on that nutty family tree!
Bonus: Are you systematically removing all puppets from your house now? If so, don't worry - they'll be back =O
We were not a puppet family. And I gave all the stuffed animals and dolls to other children. Lol, because they might like to have them, not because I expected anything like this story! Lol
DQs Day 5 chapters 32 - end19. I was excited that Louise and Mark were going to contact Aunt Gail. I liked meeting Barb. I was surprised that they could not really help, and suddenly, we were back where we started, in the creepy house with the puppets. Why do you think Barb and Aunt Gail were in the story?
To provide family background/details mostly.
20. I found the horror of Poppy’s plight with Pupkin to be the most concerning. Did you find the horror in this book effective? Which parts creeped you out the most?
I've read horror type books forever, so I may be a bit desensitized. I thought it was as effective as most? I think Poppy had to be included in Pupkin's plight, or the story would have lost some of it's creepiness.
21. Gary Hendrix is also known for his humor. I laughed out loud when the puppets got together to form a golem. What parts (if any) did you find humorous?
The whole squirrel art/nativity was super weird
22. I was shaking my head when Louise gave her daughter her stuffed animals. I would want no part of that house to be a part of my daughter’s life! How did you feel about that part?
Considering everything that Louise went through, I'm surprised that she would let her have any stuffed animals, esp. ones that had lived in her childhood home!
23. How do you feel about the ending?
It was okay. Nothing spectacular or unexpected.
Angie ☯'s BOM Participation Tracking:October 2023 ~ How to Sell a Haunted House
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
DQs Day 3; Chapters 16-2210. Pupkin is,,, alive??? Okay, no big surprise there to be honest, but we did finally get some interesting background info from Louise and Mark's childhood, even if that's not how Louise remembers it. Do you think she really doesn't remember, has simply forgotten, due to trauma or it just having happened way too long ago, or does she remember but chooses not to acknoledge it? Or maybe Mark misremembers himself and it didn't even happen (that way at least)? They were both still very young after all, Mark especially. Is it possible to remember something that happened when you were only two years old?
I think she decided it didn’t happen when she saw Pupkin again after burying him and repressed it as a dream or fantasy. As far as Mark goes, I personally don’t remember anything from that young but then I didn’t have a near-death experience either, so it’s possible some part of him did remember.
11. The second perspective adds a new layer, however it only got added halfway through the book. Were you surprised we got Mark's POV at all, and would you have preferred for it to be there from the beginning of the book? Also, has this last section changed your opinion on him in any way? He did save Louise from Pupkin after all....
It was enlightening to get some of his perspective. I definitely understand him more. I also did puppetry and commedia dell’arte when I worked at a renfaire, so I did understand some of what he meant by being taken over by the character or the mask in the moment of performing. Thankfully, it never got as intense as the Pupkin masking did.
12. To me, the last chapter feels a bit like a fever dream, definitely like they were on drugs. I personally don't remember which MPGs the book has and don't want to check in case of 'spoilers' now, but do you think there's a possibility the house, our main characters, the puppets, the dolls, Pupkin, everything- isn't actually haunted and none of it is actually happening?? What if it's just a dream (which would be the worst ending ngl), mental problems like Louise wants to believe, or mold in the house that's effecting them like this plus possible drug use from Mark when he was away?
I’d like to believe the paranormal is at play. Louise keeps bringing up The Velveteen Rabbit and it makes me think something similar happened to Pupkin. Or, it’s a demonic possession and it just wants them to think that way. I’ve read a few of this author’s books and he’s not one to shy away from the supernatural, so we’ll see.
13. I can't help but wonder how the book is gonna end... If Pupkin is indeed an evil puppet come to life I only see one way it can be destroyed - fire. Do you think they'll end up burning down the entire house (although Hill House (in the show at least) wouldn't let itself be burned down either, so who knows if that would work), or will the dolls and puppets take over? What do you predict will happen in the rest of the book?
They’ll figure out a way to neutralize Pupkin. Fire probably won’t work considering how he’s come back from destruction before. It may come down to their aunt cleansing the house after all.
DQs Day 4: Ch. 23-3114. After Mark's story, the siblings kind of bonded. What did you think of that and the hug. At that point of the story, did you feel like they were going to be unified or that it would be short-lived?
I didn’t think they would stay as unified as they were in that moment. Like Louise said, they needed something to connect them and if it all ended when she burned Pupkin they would’ve drifted apart again.
15. So they made a plan to go back in and take care of Pupkin vs. just burning down the house? Why?? Pretend you don't know how that turned out - what would you have decided to do after they both shared their Pupkin experiences?
I would’ve called on Aunt Gail much sooner. Would not have gone into it unprepared. I don’t think burning the house down would’ve worked. Mark tried that before, and as we end up finding out destruction of the physical puppet doesn’t mean whatever’s inside it is gone.
16. The battle! I don't even know what to say other than I kept needing to put the book down. Did you expect this level of brutality? Would you have been able to cut off the arm?
Absolutely if my life was on the line I feel I could do it. Of course you never know until you’re in such a situation. As for the brutality, I figured Pupkin would not make it easy and would up the ante.
17. Did you expect Pupkin to show back up like he did?
I figured *something* would happen since there was still 30% of the book left. I’m starting to think the possession isn’t random, that there is some connection to the family, especially Nancy.
18. What did you think of Gail? If you haven't finished already, what do you think will happen?
I like her and feel they should’ve contacted her MUCH much sooner. I think she and Barb will have their hand full dealing with Pupkin.
Bonus: Are you systematically removing all puppets from your house now? If so, don't worry - they'll be back =O
Nah, the only puppet I’m aware of is a sock puppet I made for my friend’s Sock Puppet Theatre YouTube channel. So far I haven’t heard any whispers yet, but if I do I have a fire pit handy in the yard!
DQs Set 2: Chapters 8 - 156. Were you expecting those wills? Why do you think both parents were so unfair on the kids?
No, I was shocked when the wills were read out. I think because we are reading from Louise's perspective, we were lulled into expecting something else. I think there is a lot we don't know about their parents but clearly each sibling gravitated to a different one. It seemed very strange that their mum would leave everything to Mark but the art collection to Louise unless it was an attempt to try and keep Louise in Marks's life because she knew once they were gone and the house sold Louise would never voluntarily see Mark again
7. Yikes! killer stuffed squirrels! The first violent haunting here, was it effective?
It was definitely scary. From the sounds of what happened when their parents died, it makes you think that maybe the haunting started prior to the parents death but I feel like the squirrel attack in a way to make us think its just in Louise's mind. More and More i am getting the feeling that Louise may not be as reliable a narrator and we assume from the beginning so interesting to see how it all plays out
8. Despite the various creepy things that Louise has experienced, she's refusing to let her aunt exorcise the house. Would you still be hanging onto rational reasons over accepting family help?
I think it would be hard for someone with a rational mind to accept regardless plus in Louise's case she seems to desperately not want to believe it's real ( I think there might be more there to explore) so by not accepting the house is haunting therefore nothing else could be real either.
That being said, in the interests of getting the house sold i think i would now be leaning more towards Mar's solution of getting degutter to clear out the house, get the cleansing done ( to appease the reast of the family, get the house sold then get out of there LOL
9. We've had more insight into the childhood of Mark and Louise. Does this change your opinion of either of them?
While my opinion of mark hasn't changed too much, I am starting to feel like Louise isn't as reliable a narrator as we have been given to think. I think there is more to her than what has been presented so far so it will be interesting to see how that plays out
DQs Day 5 chapters 32 - end19. I was excited that Louise and Mark were going to contact Aunt Gail. I liked meeting Barb. I was surprised that they could not really help, and suddenly, we were back where we started, in the creepy house with the puppets. Why do you think Barb and Aunt Gail were in the story?
They were a device for the reveal about Freddie. Louise needed someone with supernatural knowledge to help figure it out.
20. I found the horror of Poppy’s plight with Pupkin to be the most concerning. Did you find the horror in this book effective? Which parts creeped you out the most?
Mark’s story in Boston had the biggest effect on me. Having both a background in theatre and some puppetry experience I found it easier to put myself in his shoes.
21. Gary Hendrix is also known for his humor. I laughed out loud when the puppets got together to form a golem. What parts (if any) did you find humorous?
The existence of the squirrel nativity. It was just absurd (and creepy).
22. I was shaking my head when Louise gave her daughter her stuffed animals. I would want no part of that house to be a part of my daughter’s life! How did you feel about that part?
Her stuffed animals didn’t seem to have anything to do with Pupkin or the attacks, so I was fine with it. Good thinking getting Barb to cleanse them first.
23. How do you feel about the ending?
I liked it. Freddie is at rest, Louise and Poppy have recovered, and Louise and Mark had a stronger relationship due to everything they went through.
DQs Day 3; Chapters 16-2210. Pupkin is,,, alive??? Okay, no big surprise there to be honest, but we did finally get some interesting background info from Louise and Mark's childhood, even if that's not how Louise remembers it. Do you think she really doesn't remember, has simply forgotten, due to trauma or it just having happened way too long ago, or does she remember but chooses not to acknoledge it? Or maybe Mark misremembers himself and it didn't even happen (that way at least)? They were both still very young after all, Mark especially. Is it possible to remember something that happened when you were only two years old?
To me it seems like she doesn't want to remember it rather than it not happening but this also goes to the whole reliable narrator issue. Up till now, we have assumed Louise is the sane? normal? reliable? one but maybe she isn't. Also she has mentioned before that her habit have a long history of denial so I guess it is no surprise it applies to her two. I think its possible to have remember something that young espcially something that traumatic. Most people might just remember flashes from being that young but an event like that would have to make a mark.
11. The second perspective adds a new layer, however it only got added halfway through the book. Were you surprised we got Mark's POV at all, and would you have preferred for it to be there from the beginning of the book? Also, has this last section changed your opinion on him in any way? He did save Louise from Pupkin after all....
I think it was a good move on the part of the author to add the perspective part way through the book. I think up until now as the reader we have probably made a lot of assumptions and this new perspective in many ways turns those assumptions on their head. I think also it is interesting seeing things from Mark's perspective. My opinions of Mark have changed a little after seeing things from his point of view but some still same the seeing some of his justifications.
12. To me, the last chapter feels a bit like a fever dream, definitely like they were on drugs. I personally don't remember which MPGs the book has and don't want to check in case of 'spoilers' now, but do you think there's a possibility the house, our main characters, the puppets, the dolls, Pupkin, everything- isn't actually haunted and none of it is actually happening?? What if it's just a dream (which would be the worst ending ngl), mental problems like Louise wants to believe, or mold in the house that's effecting them like this plus possible drug use from Mark when he was away?
It's hard to tell, something definitely went down while Mark was away at BU whether it was supernatural or draugs is hard to say. Again we are at the mercy of the Mark or Louise's naratives and perspective but the fact the both of them plus apparently Mercy have seen somethings suggests there might be something to it but then the question has to be asked: If pupkin originally belonged to the mum, wouldn't she have some idea about pupkin and if so, what kind of hold does Pupkin have on her that she would continue to use him around her kids and other kids
13. I can't help but wonder how the book is gonna end... If Pupkin is indeed an evil puppet come to life I only see one way it can be destroyed - fire. Do you think they'll end up burning down the entire house (although Hill House (in the show at least) wouldn't let itself be burned down either, so who knows if that would work), or will the dolls and puppets take over? What do you predict will happen in the rest of the book?
Right now I have no idea how it will end. We don't yet even know if Louise will choose to believe Mark's story or dismiss it as an excuse for why he left BU. I am wondering if maybe the thing in the attic might be a help rather than a big bad (so to speak) Up till now apparently the dolls and puppets seem to be able to get through locked doors and out of garbage bins etc so was it even Louise's parents that jammed it? The other option is that Mark and Louise literally drive each other insane. I feel like this story will completely destroy them either way
DQs Day 4: Ch. 23-31 14. After Mark's story, the siblings kind of bonded. What did you think of that and the hug. At that point of the story, did you feel like they were going to be unified or that it would be short-lived?
I thought that it was definitely a step in the right direction but i wasn't sure it would last
15. So they made a plan to go back in and take care of Pupkin vs. just burning down the house? Why?? Pretend you don't know how that turned out - what would you have decided to do after they both shared their Pupkin experiences?
While i would like to say i would just burn the house down. Given they still thought they would sell the house after, i can see why they made the choice they did and in all honesty there is no guarantee burnung the house down would have gone any better and while maybe Mark might still have an arm and hand, i doubt it would have changed the outcome with Poppy
16. The battle! I don't even know what to say other than I kept needing to put the book down. Did you expect this level of brutality? Would you have been able to cut off the arm?
Yes i closed my eyes for some of the descriptions which really didn't do anything since i am listening to the audio book LOL I honestly don't know if I could have cut of the arm. The description of that was horrific.
17. Did you expect Pupkin to show back up like he did?
I figured there had to be more to the story since we were bare passed halfway through but still it was kind of Jarring.
18. What did you think of Gail? If you haven't finished already, what do you think will happen?
Gail so far seems quite down to earth and I am hoping she will be able to help them with Pupkin
Bonus: Are you systematically removing all puppets from your house now? If so, don't worry - they'll be back =O I don't own any puppets thankfully but its definitely making me look at my pop funkos a little differently
DQs Day 5 chapters 32 - end19. I was excited that Louise and Mark were going to contact Aunt Gail. I liked meeting Barb. I was surprised that they could not really help, and suddenly, we were back where we started, in the creepy house with the puppets. Why do you think Barb and Aunt Gail were in the story?
I too was relieved to see Aunt Gail and Barbara and then wondered where in the world they went for the big fight scene, etc. Plus, doing an exorcism or w/e with a puppet that is known to possess other dolls, in a room full of dolls is questionable.
20. I found the horror of Poppy’s plight with Pupkin to be the most concerning. Did you find the horror in this book effective? Which parts creeped you out the most?
The dolls themselves, especially Pupkin, creeped me out the most. I dislike horror though, and didn't enjoy reading all of the fights, injuries, etc.
21. Gary Hendrix is also known for his humor. I laughed out loud when the puppets got together to form a golem. What parts (if any) did you find humorous?
I thought the extended family was the most humorous. I would have loved to see the various puppets arguing with each other in the golem.
22. I was shaking my head when Louise gave her daughter her stuffed animals. I would want no part of that house to be a part of my daughter’s life! How did you feel about that part?
I don't think my daughter would ever see another doll or puppet if I were Louise.
23. How do you feel about the ending?
Well, I was just glad to be done. I thought parts were rushed and didn't make sense, but some of that was I was trying to rush through and get on to something that didn't creep me out so much.
DQs Set 2: Chapters 8 - 156. Were you expecting those wills? Why do you think both parents were so unfair on the kids?
I thought something might be weird about the wills, but not the way they turned out. Louise was being so fair and generous when she thought she would get control, but then when the mom's will gives it all to Mark and he was so mean to his sister, it was hard not to believe that the mom set them up on purpose to have a huge fight. The wills seem to point to the dysfunctional way the parents communicated about their children throughout their childhoods. Also, odd that Louise would get all the art when her mom knew she wasn't interested in it and pretty much thought it was all terrible.
7. Yikes! killer stuffed squirrels! The first violent haunting here, was it effective?
I don't like horror and was concerned about the level of horror there might be in this book, but if that's the level, then I'm ok with it. The squirrel in Louise's shirt was a bit over the top, but mostly I found it to be silly, not scary. The dolls would bother me more the way they seem to move from one spot to another on their own.
8. Despite the various creepy things that Louise has experienced, she's refusing to let her aunt exorcise the house. Would you still be hanging onto rational reasons over accepting family help?
Absolutely not. I don't believe in ghosts or any of that, but I would take anyone's help, so that I could get that house on the market and return to my normal life.
9. We've had more insight into the childhood of Mark and Louise. Does this change your opinion of either of them?
Yes, it helps to have that perspective for understanding them, but I'm sure there's more that will come out about each of them.
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DQs Day 3; Chapters 16-2210. Pupkin is,,, alive??? Okay, no big surprise there to be honest, but we did finally get some interesting background info from Louise and Mark's childhood, even if that's not how Louise remembers it. Do you think she really doesn't remember, has simply forgotten, due to trauma or it just having happened way too long ago, or does she remember but chooses not to acknoledge it? Or maybe Mark misremembers himself and it didn't even happen (that way at least)? They were both still very young after all, Mark especially. Is it possible to remember something that happened when you were only two years old?
My feeling is that Louise has repressed that event for so long, she no longer is sure of the truth and now she's fretting it might be real. Normally a two year old wouldn't have a detailed memory of all of what happened, but that memory of his sister looking back at him when he was drowning and just turning and walking away, I believe could stick. What was almost as concerning to me was the way the parents handled it. They both seemed to think Louise did it (especially the mom) in that they didn't trust her and then the mom started ignoring Louise, as if she wanted nothing else to do with her after she tried to kill her baby. So dysfunctional!
11. The second perspective adds a new layer, however it only got added halfway through the book. Were you surprised we got Mark's POV at all, and would you have preferred for it to be there from the beginning of the book? Also, has this last section changed your opinion on him in any way? He did save Louise from Pupkin after all....
I liked getting Mark's perspective. I feel like the author waited on purpose as if to say to us, "in this story things are not always as they appear to be". Yes, he was a stand up guy when he saved Louise from the evil Pupkin, and it did improve my feelings a little about him, but he still has lots of issues and is not trustworthy or likable.
12. To me, the last chapter feels a bit like a fever dream, definitely like they were on drugs. I personally don't remember which MPGs the book has and don't want to check in case of 'spoilers' now, but do you think there's a possibility the house, our main characters, the puppets, the dolls, Pupkin, everything- isn't actually haunted and none of it is actually happening?? What if it's just a dream (which would be the worst ending ngl), mental problems like Louise wants to believe, or mold in the house that's effecting them like this plus possible drug use from Mark when he was away?
That was such a weird chapter! I have no idea how it really fits into the story, other than the terrible show with the marionette dying and thus the connection to puppets being sinister or having lives of their own.
13. I can't help but wonder how the book is gonna end... If Pupkin is indeed an evil puppet come to life I only see one way it can be destroyed - fire. Do you think they'll end up burning down the entire house (although Hill House (in the show at least) wouldn't let itself be burned down either, so who knows if that would work), or will the dolls and puppets take over? What do you predict will happen in the rest of the book?
This story could go so many ways, I can't even begin to guess right now. Some people on my team who finished it have commented they didn't like it, so maybe it's a bad ending? I've never read this author before, so I have nothing to base a guess on how it might end. I am curious about the lock on the attic and why it's there and what is in the attic besides possibly squirrels. These puppets can get out of trash cans and enter locked houses, so I don't know how a lock on the attic can contain them. I do not think it will be a happy ending with the house selling for lots of money and Louise resuming her life with Poppy and her husband. They seem like a fairly messed up lot also. I wouldn't be surprised if the ending is one that leaves us hanging. This book has engrossed me more than I thought it would, so off to finish it to find out the answer!
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DQs Day 1Ch 1 to Ch 7
1.) What are your first impressions of the family and of Louise and Mark? How pivotal do you think their relationship (or lack thereof) will play in the story.
Aside: I plan to steal and use the phrase "Terminal Assholism" in future. Thank you Hendrix!
My first impression in general is that this is going to be an interesting book. I do not like Mark although it seems like he knows more about his parents than Louise does. I have no feelings towards Louise. I do feel bad that Ian is being so mean to her. Her daughter is 6 and IMO is perfectly capable of being told her grandparents have died.
2.) The book is organized into sections following the 5 stages of grief. Does this impact your expectations of the book at all?
It does feel as if it will have an impact on the story, for sure.
3.) Okay. Life size dolls named after her children. Weird, creepy? Would you be excited to have them as part of your inheritance?
LOL F'n creepy as hell! No thank you. I will gladly pass on the dolls.
4.) Have you ever experienced a family post-death squabble/fight like the one Louise and Mark had in front of the junk clean out guys?
No, I don't blame Louise though. From what I can gather, Mark is a flake and all of a sudden wants to be in control of everything and not even give Louise a chance to express her opinion.
5.) Did anyone else google Fellowship of Christian Puppeteers? If so, were you surprised to find they were a real organization? Has anyone interacted with them before or a similar organization for other religious beliefs? [note: please keep responses respectful to people's beliefs, this is a safe space]
I did not but it seems like a unique niche for sure.
DQs Day 1Ch 1 to Ch 7
1.) What are your first impressions of the family and of Louise and Mark? How pivotal do you think their relationship (or lack thereof) will play in the story.
Aside: I plan to steal and use the phrase "Terminal Assholism" in future. Thank you Hendrix!
Answer: The book threw the readers right into the action and heart of things which I absolutely loved although seeing more of Louise's parents before they died won't have been bad too. I was immediately annoyed by Mark and found him to be an awful brother and son. But I do not want to assume the worst and would like to see if there is anything in Louise and Mark's past that would warrant his present behaviour
2.) The book is organized into sections following the 5 stages of grief. Does this impact your expectations of the book at all?
Answer: If I had to guess judging by what has been said so far, I feel like this would be more about repairing Louise and Mark's fractured relationship and they will go through these stages together but have varied experience of the same, still connecting though with the loss of their parents.
3.) Okay. Life size dolls named after her children. Weird, creepy? Would you be excited to have them as part of your inheritance?
Answer: As someone who is already creeped out by even normal sized dolls, I cannot even imagine what kind of freak out would life size dolls cause. I am feeling a bit weird ngl since the moment puppets/dolls/clowns were mentioned. LOL i would never want to be given anything remotely related to any of these.
4.) Have you ever experienced a family post-death squabble/fight like the one Louise and Mark had in front of the junk clean out guys?
Answer: I have never been in such a situation fortunately but I do realise that these kinds of fights are more common than one might imagine.
5.) Did anyone else google Fellowship of Christian Puppeteers? If so, were you surprised to find they were a real organization? Has anyone interacted with them before or a similar organization for other religious beliefs? [note: please keep responses respectful to people's beliefs, this is a safe space]
Answer: I follow Hinduism and there are definitely many, many organizations within our religion. Most are good but there certainly are some vile ones too but nothing with puppets at the core though. This was a unique concept for me.
DQs Set 2: Chapters 8 - 156. Were you expecting those wills? Why do you think both parents were so unfair on the kids?
Answer: When Brody read out the wills, I was definitely shocked that neither of the parents thought of dividing up the estate equally between the two kids considering that is what the norm is. In my opinion, since Louise had already made a life elsewhere, her mom favored her son more
7. Yikes! killer stuffed squirrels! The first violent haunting here, was it effective?
Answer: It was definitely creepy but not as effective honestly, I am not a religious person so I don't think the squirrel nativity thing had the intended effect on me. I am rather bored atm honestly.
8. Despite the various creepy things that Louise has experienced, she's refusing to let her aunt exorcise the house. Would you still be hanging onto rational reasons over accepting family help?
Answer: If the help is in form of an exorcism for something that can be totally explained rationally instead of jumping straight to occult shit, I am on Louise's side here. No one in real life would jump at the offer of getting their house exorcised. Everything feels weird to the outsiders but Louise and Mark grew up in the said house, it is all normal for them.
9. We've had more insight into the childhood of Mark and Louise. Does this change your opinion of either of them?
Answer: I feel like the characters flipped completely after wills were read, as soon as Louise got onboard with selling the house, Mark is all sentimental which is kinda confusing. Louise's rebellion comes from a place of partiality on her mom's part and atm I have started resenting the parents for not giving their kids a normal childhood.
10. Pupkin is,,, alive??? Okay, no big surprise there to be honest, but we did finally get some interesting background info from Louise and Mark's childhood, even if that's not how Louise remembers it. Do you think she really doesn't remember, has simply forgotten, due to trauma or it just having happened way too long ago, or does she remember but chooses not to acknoledge it? Or maybe Mark misremembers himself and it didn't even happen (that way at least)? They were both still very young after all, Mark especially. Is it possible to remember something that happened when you were only two years old?
This all happened over 30 odd years ago. They were both really young children. Time has a way of twisting memories, but I do think that some powerful piece of memory can stick to your brain as Mark's does. I have a sister who is a year younger than me. We have different memories of many of the events in our childhood. In a way it's interesting to combine those memories and get a fresh picture.
11. The second perspective adds a new layer, however it only got added halfway through the book. Were you surprised we got Mark's POV at all, and would you have preferred for it to be there from the beginning of the book? Also, has this last section changed your opinion on him in any way? He did save Louise from Pupkin after all....
Mark's POV was a surprise, but a good one. It did change my opinion of him. I no longer see him as a total loser.
12. To me, the last chapter feels a bit like a fever dream, definitely like they were on drugs. I personally don't remember which MPGs the book has and don't want to check in case of 'spoilers' now, but do you think there's a possibility the house, our main characters, the puppets, the dolls, Pupkin, everything- isn't actually haunted and none of it is actually happening?? What if it's just a dream (which would be the worst ending ngl), mental problems like Louise wants to believe, or mold in the house that's effecting them like this plus possible drug use from Mark when he was away?
I've already read the book and know what happens.
13. I can't help but wonder how the book is gonna end... If Pupkin is indeed an evil puppet come to life I only see one way it can be destroyed - fire. Do you think they'll end up burning down the entire house (although Hill House (in the show at least) wouldn't let itself be burned down either, so who knows if that would work), or will the dolls and puppets take over? What do you predict will happen in the rest of the book?
As I've already read the book I will not be spoiling the ending. Let's just say that it was perfect.