C: The Marionette Mob

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

Shan, I loved Parable of the Sower and its sequel, Parable of the Talents. Butler was from around here yet I never got to see any of her readings.

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

I need to find a curly haired book but it should be easy. 80% of cozy mysteries have a heroine with "untamable" curly locks, one of those allegedly humble self-compliments. It's so tiring. I want an MC with hair that just won't hold a curl even with a curling iron or one with mixed hair like mine where it's curly underneath in the back (fortunately hidden) in summer, mostly wavy but sometimes straight.

[Anastasia]

Kelly (Maybedog) wrote: "I need to find a curly haired book but it should be easy. 80% of cozy mysteries have a heroine with "untamable" curly locks, one of those allegedly humble self-compliments. It's so tiring. I want a..."
Trouble is when you are actually looking for curly hair, it doesn't pop up easily. I'm reading one from the same series as your TINA book and unfortunately it doesn't say anything about Alison's hair.

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

It's one reason I love the series. :)

[Anastasia]

My books are done. Let me know if you need me to take any others.

[Shan ~A~]

Sorry guys. I should have both of my books done by tomorrow. I had to read 2 short ones for another challenge that had a very quick turnaround and need to finish my Day 12 horror movie. Plus, we took our daughters out to lunch for our youngest's 20th birthday today.

And last evening we had a small party for my youngest grandkids (twins) and then a sleepover. All of the kids were 4 and under. Fun times.

My next book is going to be The Rom-Commers since I need it for another challenge as well.

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

Anastasia, am I going to get in trouble for you taking so many of my books? I would love for you to take my curly haired one as I have stuff due for a couple of challenges right now. But I can do it if not. I just have to find a book which, as I said, shouldn't be too hard.

[Anastasia]

Kelly (Maybedog) wrote: "Anastasia, am I going to get in trouble for you taking so many of my books? I would love for you to take my curly haired one as I have stuff due for a couple of challenges right now. But I can do i..."

I can take your curly hair one. Have my Joanne Fluke books as back up for these and will pull out the first one. She is always talking about her hair

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

She's a cozy mystery writer, right? Every time. :)

[Anastasia]

Curly hair book is done

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

Awesome, thanks! Can you check us in?

[Anastasia]

Shan hasn't finished her last book yet

[Shan ~A~]

checked in

[Anastasia]

Shan ~A~ wrote: "checked in"

Thanks Shan

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

Whoops, sorry!

[Donna, Curator of Challenge Terrors]

4. The Clown Doll

The clown doll from Poltergeist (1982) is one of the most memorable and terrifying elements of the film—and a textbook example of how something seemingly innocent can become pure nightmare fuel.

Sitting in young Robbie Freeling’s bedroom, the clown doll is oversized, dressed in classic circus garb with a red nose, painted smile, and ruffled collar. It starts off as just a creepy presence. Always sitting in the corner, staring with glassy eyes. But its true horror is revealed in a pivotal scene where it comes to life.

As a thunderstorm rages outside, the doll suddenly grabs Robbie, dragging him under the bed with its unnaturally long arms and maniacal grin. The attack is violent, surreal, and deeply unsettling, playing on the childhood fear of toys turning against you and of something lurking just out of sight.

Although the clown only appears briefly, its impact is lasting. It became a cultural symbol of toy-related terror and helped solidify Poltergeist's legacy in horror history.

Now it’s loose again—and we need your help to wrangle it up before it crawls back into the shadows.

Complete the following tasks:

Identify the Hidden Threat
Read a chain of 3 books where something dangerous lurks beneath the surface—secret horrors, cursed objects, or hidden villains waiting to strike.

Don’t Be Fooled by the Smile
Read a chain of 3 books with deceptively cheerful or sweet covers—but the stories inside are dark, disturbing, or emotionally devastating.

Keep Eyes on the Target
Read a chain of 3 books with titles that include words related to vision or watching: look, see, watch, stare, eye, shadow, face, etc.

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

I finished my books and checked us in since it looks like you both have finished your books.

[Shan ~A~]

Kelly (Maybedog) wrote: "I finished my books and checked us in since it looks like you both have finished your books."

Thanks!

[MN Lisa, Mistress of Mayhem with a Method]

12. Zathura

The Zathura board game is a mysterious, intergalactic counterpart to Jumanji, first introduced in the children’s book Zathura by Chris Van Allsburg and popularized by the 2005 film adaptation.

At first glance, Zathura looks like an old-fashioned, tin wind-up space-themed board game. Its box opens like a briefcase to reveal a retro-futuristic metal board adorned with rockets, stars, planets, and a winding track leading to a black hole. At the center is a wind-up key and a small slot that spits out cards with each turn, which announce new events in bold lettering—many of which immediately come to life.

But Zathura is no harmless game. Once started, it launches players and their house into outer space, forcing them to navigate meteor showers, rogue robots, gravity wells, and hostile aliens—all while drifting deeper into the unknown. The only way to survive and return home is to finish the game, no matter how dangerous the journey becomes.

Unlike Jumanji, which brings the jungle to Earth, Zathura takes the players away from Earth entirely. It is a test of bravery, teamwork, and resilience, wrapped in a perilous sci-fi adventure with real consequences. The game is unpredictable, relentless, and refuses to let go until it's over, making it a thrilling and dangerous ride through the cosmos.

🚀 ZATHURA: A Cosmic Reading Detour
A game for those who seek to leave their world behind…

You were just minding your own business, flipping pages, living your best bookish life—when suddenly, the board opened. The stars shifted. And now you’re orbiting a mysterious side quest with no way out… except through.

This is a mini-challenge within our main challenge, inspired by the intergalactic chaos of Zathura. You’ve been pulled into the game. And like the movie says: You have to finish.

🌌 Your Mission:
Each reader must:
- Click three numbers (1–12) on the Zathura Event Card deck.
- Read one book per card, completing the specific task listed.

Survive long enough to say “ZATHURA” and rejoin the main challenge.

Tasks are mysterious, spacey, weird, and sometimes… cruel. But you can handle it. Probably.

💀 Optional Chaos Mode:
Think you’re built for deep space?
Once you finish your 3 tasks, you may draw a 4th bonus card.
If you do… you must complete it. The game doesn't forgive curiosity.

🪐 Prepare for rogue robots, zero-g chaos, black holes, and maybe a stowaway or two. The galaxy doesn’t play fair.

Your adventure starts now.
Click to draw your first card… if you dare. 😈
https://www.online-stopwatch.com/rand...

Once you’ve drawn your cards, report to the Occult Museum (Check-In Thread) with:
Your Team Name/Your Name
The 3 numbers you pulled
A link to your team’s spreadsheet

The stars are watching. Good luck.

[MN Lisa, Mistress of Mayhem with a Method]

2. Rogue Robot – Read a book with a robot, AI, or harmful machine.


3. Gravity Well – Read a book where someone is trapped.


4. Alien Interference – Read a book with aliens, cryptids, or non-human entities.

[Anastasia]

Just reminding Kelly and Shan that they need to get their own tasks
Each reader must:
- Click three numbers (1–12) on the Zathura Event Card deck.
- Read one book per card, completing the specific task listed.

[Shan ~A~]

Thanks, Anastasia! I checked in my numbers.

[MN Lisa, Mistress of Mayhem with a Method]

1. Meteor Shower – Read a book where something falls (rain, ash, bodies, etc.).


5. Sci-Fi Throttle – Read a book tagged as science fiction.


10. Power Systems Overloaded – Read a book where someone burns out or loses control.

[Shan ~A~]

Anastasia wrote: "Just reminding Kelly and Shan that they need to get their own tasks
Each reader must:
- Click three numbers (1–12) on the Zathura Event Card deck.
- Read one book per card, completing the specific ..."

@kelly ~ in case you missed this

[Anastasia]

Also Kelly Belle's rule does not apply

[Shan ~A~]

Anastasia wrote: "Also Kelly Belle's rule does not apply"

I never remember that and just start looking a book automatically.

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

Sorry, when I looked at my notifications, it took me to Anastasia's cards because the messages were so long so I thought that was our regular assignment. I didn't scroll up.

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

That jack in the box made me jump.

[Shan ~A~]

Kelly (Maybedog) wrote: "That jack in the box made me jump."

😂

[MN Lisa, Mistress of Mayhem with a Method]

1. Meteor Shower – Read a book where something falls (rain, ash, bodies, etc.).


4. Alien Interference – Read a book with aliens, cryptids, or non-human entities.


6. Hologram Glitch – Read a book with a deceptive cover, twist, or hidden identity.

[Anastasia]

Just letting you know, I finished my books and decided to spin for bonus

[Shan ~A~]

I'm also going to do the bonus. Taking a break from reading to watch a movie.

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

What Shan? You're not reading 24/7? What's wrong with you. :)

I, too, have finished my books and am going for the bonus. Hopefully it's an easy one. :)

[Shan ~A~]

Kelly (Maybedog) wrote: "What Shan? You're not reading 24/7? What's wrong with you. :)

I, too, have finished my books and am going for the bonus. Hopefully it's an easy one. :)"

😂😂 I actually usually have an audiobook going during the day and an ebook or physical book at night before bed, unless I'm babysitting, or hanging with my family. Exceptions Oct for 31 days of Halloween, July for Christmas in July, and Dec for 25 days of Christmas. I watch at least one movie to fit the theme a day during these times. I guess I also make an exception for when I get ready to watch Grey's, SVU, High Potential, & 911.

[MN Lisa, Mistress of Mayhem with a Method]

Anastasia's Bonus Choices
5. Sci-Fi Throttle – Read a book tagged as science fiction.


10. Power Systems Overloaded – Read a book where someone burns out or loses control.


11. Cargo Bay Breach – Read a book where a secret or danger is released.

[MN Lisa, Mistress of Mayhem with a Method]

Kelly's Bonus Choices
1. Meteor Shower – Read a book where something falls (rain, ash, bodies, etc.).


8. Black Hole Detected – Read a book that’s emotionally heavy or slow-burning.


11. Cargo Bay Breach – Read a book where a secret or danger is released.

[MN Lisa, Mistress of Mayhem with a Method]

For the Bonus you drew 3 Cards. Only one is required. You pick which one. Thanks!

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

Oh that's so nice!

[Anastasia]

Finished my bonus as well

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

Me too.

[Anastasia]

In that case Shan, don't worry about a bonus for yourself and just check us in when you finish your book so we can get started on the next

[Shan ~A~]

checked in

[Donna, Curator of Challenge Terrors]

9. Fats the Dummy

Fats the Dummy is the disturbing ventriloquist’s doll from the 1978 psychological horror film Magic, based on the novel by William Goldman.

Fats is the wooden partner of Corky Withers, a struggling magician turned ventriloquist. With his slicked-back black hair, bulging eyes, wide grin, and weathered, lifelike features, Fats looks unsettling even when silent. But it’s when he speaks, voiced by Corky himself in a raspy, mocking tone, that his presence becomes deeply unnerving.

Unlike many horror dolls, Fats never walks or acts on his own. The terror comes from the psychological unraveling of his owner. Corky begins to lose control, and Fats seems to gain more personality, will, and aggression, speaking dark truths, manipulating his master, and ultimately pushing him toward madness and violence. The question becomes whether Fats is truly alive… or simply the fractured voice of Corky’s split psyche.

Fats stands out in the horror genre not for supernatural antics, but for embodying the descent into insanity, blurring the line between puppet and puppeteer. His dead eyes and cruel wit make him one of the most quietly terrifying dolls in film history.

Fats doesn’t walk. He doesn’t blink. He doesn’t need to. His power isn’t in movement—it’s in manipulation. As Corky’s ventriloquist dummy, Fats slowly takes over the act… and then the mind behind it. His voice cuts deep, mocking and commanding, until it’s unclear who’s speaking—and who’s listening.

Now the dummy’s whispering again. And we need your help to shut him up before he finds a new voice to borrow.

Complete the following tasks:

2. Mind the Split
If you talk to yourself… make sure it’s actually you.
Read a chain of 3 books that include mental health themes, identity crises, or characters with unreliable inner voices or split selves.

5. Painted on a Smile
The makeup never cracks. The eyes never move.
Read a chain of 3 books with white or bone-colored covers (at least 50%).

6. Say Nothing
The worst words are spoken without a mouth.
Read a chain of 3 books where the word “ventriloquist” or “dummy” appears somewhere in the text.

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

My father's first book was a detective/horror story about a serial killer who kidnapped children and made them into ventriloquist dummies.

He was a paid ventriloquist in college.

Needless to say, the book squicked me out.

[Shan ~A~]

Kelly (Maybedog) wrote: "My father's first book was a detective/horror story about a serial killer who kidnapped children and made them into ventriloquist dummies.

He was a paid ventriloquist in college.

Needless to sa..."

I just watched a movie with similar vibes title Dead Silence.

Now I need to log out and back in to hopefully fix the fact that I'm not getting notifications after getting error messages last night when I tried to load GRs.

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

Some will come back but I don't think all of them.

[Anastasia]

Finished my books. I lost all my notifications yesterday as well. I think they are back today. Logging out and signing back in didn't seem to help but I heard on the news there was a problem with Amazon yesterday

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

There was a problem with Duolingo yesterday, too. Maybe it was a full moon. Maybe it was the Chinese or Russian government.

I have maybe an hour on my current book with the speed I'm listening to it and my other one is fairly short. Thank goodness because I really hate contemporaries. The only other white cover I found in my audio lists is much longer (seven hours vs. eleven hours at regular speed) even though it sounds like a more interesting book.

(I don't actually know how long they are, though, because some I can listen to at 1.5 and it sounds fine and others I can't go past 1.25 or so without my being very aware of how much faster it is.)

[Anastasia]

I find with Audio, I can't listen at less than 1.5 usually as they sound so slow otherwise.

[Kelly (Maybedog)]

The regular 1.0 sounds like they're in slow motion. I think they slow down how the narrators speak. I just listened to two books in a few hours that should have taken me all day.