Book Review: How to Survive a Slasher by Justine Pucella Winans
When I first laid eyes on How to Survive a Slasher, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement mixed with curiosity. Justine Pucella Winans had already captured my heart with Bianca Torres Is Afraid of Everything, so when I saw that she was diving into the slasher genre with a queer twist, I had to jump on the opportunity. Thank you, NetGalley and Bloomsbury USA, for the ARC!
This surprisingly delightful horror-comedy introduces us to CJ, a genderfluid teen who finds themselves entangled in a series of slasher-style mysteries that echo a tragic family history. The brilliance of CJ lies not just in their identity but in how Winans fleshes them out, blending humor with vulnerability as CJ navigates the absurdity of being cast as the reluctant "Final Girl." What truly resonated with me was Winans’s nuanced portrayal of CJ’s nonbinary and genderfluid experiences. It’s refreshing to see such representation handled with care in a genre that can sometimes feel narrow.
Supporting CJ is a colorful ensemble: there’s Sebas, a sweet love interest who defies the “book boyfriend” trope, and Nadia, whose fierce loyalty keeps the narrative grounded. Their family dynamics are both hilarious and poignant, with a unique practice of “murder chase readiness” due to their past—a brilliant touch that injects an air of dark comedy. And how can I forget Chekov’s Gun, the emotional support cat? Sporting a pink harness and serving as an unexpected plot device, Chekov quickly became my favorite character. Winans’s love for cats shines through in the acknowledgments, hinting at more feline friends in future works—something I can’t wait for!
The meta-commentary on horror tropes is where How to Survive a Slasher really shines. I found myself chuckling at the clever pop culture references, particularly the webtoon/Webcomic nods that brought a nostalgic smile to my face (even a sweet shout-out to Warrior Cats, which was a lovely surprise!). It’s a thrilling balance between satire and genuine suspense, paying homage to classic slasher films while redefining them with Winans’s unique voice.
The pacing of the narrative is spot on, with escalating tension that keeps your heart racing without overwhelming you. The setting—a town that embraces its violent past with ironic festivals—adds a surreal comedic layer that both enhances the satire and deepens the story’s impact. While some twists might feel predictable, Winans cleverly subverts expectations, keeping readers engaged and eager to unravel the layers of mystery.
In conclusion, How to Survive a Slasher is a wonderfully engaging story that redefines horror while incorporating themes of family, identity, and resilience. This book is perfect for fans of meta-humor, slasher films, or anyone looking for a fresh perspective on the genre. If you’re in search of an entertaining read that will make you laugh and think, you won’t want to miss this one—especially as we wade into the spookier months ahead. It left me feeling both delighted and reflective, and I think it just might do the same for you!
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