Audiobook Sample
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- Title: Quiet Boy: A Short Horror Story
- Author: Nick Antosca
- Narrator: Frankie Corzo
- Length: 00:56:00
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 02/03/2021
- Publisher: Macmillan Audio
- Genre: Mystery, Thriller & Horror, Horror
- ISBN13: 9.78E+12
As I embarked on the journey of listening to ‘Quiet Boy: A Short Horror Story’ by Nick Antosca, narrated by Frankie Corzo, I couldn’t help but recall my own experiences with storytelling in remote places. There’s something about the eerie silence of a small town that amplifies the impact of a well-told tale, much like the stories I heard while staying in Oaxaca, where every whisper carried the weight of generations. This audiobook, part of Nightfire’s ‘Come Join Us by the Fire S2: Originals’ anthology, is a masterclass in atmospheric horror that lingers long after the final word.
Antosca’s story, which served as the basis for the film ‘Antlers,’ unfolds in a small Oregon town where a teacher discovers her young student is harboring a dark secret. The narrative is a chilling exploration of the unknown, the unseen, and the unimaginable. It reminds me of the time I was driving through the Atacama Desert, listening to ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude.’ Just as García Márquez’s magical realism was perfectly suited to the surreal landscape, Antosca’s horror feels at home in the isolation of rural America. The story unfolds like a slow, creeping fog, enveloping the listener in a sense of dread that is both subtle and unrelenting.
Frankie Corzo’s narration is nothing short of captivating. Her voice carries a haunting quality that perfectly complements the story’s tone. She uses silence with the precision of a seasoned storyteller, much like the grandmother in Oaxaca who would hold us spellbound with her tales. Corzo’s pacing is impeccable, allowing the tension to build gradually, and her ability to convey the teacher’s growing unease is commendable. The audio quality is top-notch, ensuring that every nuance of the story is preserved.
The themes of ‘Quiet Boy’ resonate deeply with me. The idea of confronting the unknown, of facing the darkness that lurks beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary lives, is a universal one. Antosca delves into the psychological horror of isolation and the fear of the other, themes that are particularly poignant in today’s world. The story also explores the complexities of human relationships, particularly the bond between a teacher and her student. It’s a reminder that horror is not just about external threats but also the internal demons we all grapple with.
While the story is undeniably powerful, it does have its limitations. At times, the pacing can feel a bit slow, especially for listeners who prefer a more action-driven narrative. However, this deliberate pacing is also what makes the story so effective in building tension. Additionally, the ending, while fitting, may leave some listeners craving more resolution. But perhaps that’s the point—horror, after all, is about the unanswered questions and the lingering unease.
In comparison to similar works, ‘Quiet Boy’ stands out for its psychological depth and atmospheric storytelling. It shares thematic similarities with Shirley Jackson’s ‘The Haunting of Hill House’ and Stephen King’s ‘The Mist,’ both of which also explore the horrors of isolation and the unknown. However, Antosca’s unique voice and Corzo’s compelling narration make this a standout in the genre.
For those who enjoy a slow-burn psychological horror, ‘Quiet Boy’ is a must-listen. It’s a story that will stay with you, much like the memories of a haunting journey through an unfamiliar landscape. And the best part? It’s available as a free download, making it accessible to all who dare to delve into its dark secrets.
As I reflect on my experience with this audiobook, I’m reminded of the power of storytelling to transport us to places we never thought we’d go. ‘Quiet Boy’ is not just a story; it’s an experience—one that will leave you questioning what lies beneath the surface of the world around you.
With literary appreciation and a touch of wanderlust, Marcus Rivera
Marcus Rivera
