Weekend Reads: Dive into Near Flesh and the Revisiting of 30 Days of Night

The Haunting Return to Barrow

This weekend offers two intriguing reads, starting with Near Flesh, a compilation of peculiar short stories authored by the late Katherine Dunn, known for her intense and provocative storytelling. Also featured is 30 Days of Night: Falling Sun, marking the highly anticipated continuation of the renowned horror saga.

Exploring the Strange and Alluring: Near Flesh

Posthumously published, this array of tales by Katherine Dunn is as enigmatic, vivid, and chilling as her followers would anticipate. For newcomers, it opens a gateway into her unique literary style. With 19 narratives, Dunn traverses themes from a culture fixated on reattaching amputated limbs post-burial, to a young girl longing for cosmic deliverance, and a woman engulfed by the company of robotic lovers. These stories examine the human psyche through a dark yet occasionally satirical lens, primarily focusing on women navigating both the ordinary and extraordinary aspects of life. The impact is profound and lingering.

The Revival of a Horror Classic: 30 Days of Night: Falling Sun

For fans of the 30 Days of Night series, the latest installment, Falling Sun, promises to revive the chilling atmosphere. Crafted by Rodney Barnes, in collaboration with the original series' creator Steve Niles, the narrative is brought to life with captivating visuals by Chris Shehan. Set two decades after the initial events in Barrow, Alaska, the plot introduces us to Jalen James, a teenager seeking solace from his life in Los Angeles as he arrives just before the onset of the endless winter night. Unbeknownst to him and the residents, the vampiric menace awakens, thirsting for revenge.

This opening issue establishes the mood, reintroducing us to the nocturnal creatures and painting a vivid picture of the current dynamics in Barrow, touching on scars left by past brutality. Anticipation is high for the unfolding narrative journey.