We Have Always Lived In The Castle

This book is often considered Shirley Jacksons masterpiece and once you read it, it’s easy to see why. This book follows 18 year old Merricat Blackwood, who lives with her sister Constance, uncle Julian, and cat Jonas. They live a peaceful life away from the public ever since Constance was acquitted for the murder of the rest of the Blackwood family. Their peaceful life is threatened by the arrival of cousin Charles, who seems more interested in the family’s wealth than their wellbeing. This book perfectly highlights Shirley Jacksons talent in writing about solitude, paranoia, and the everyday horrors of suburban American life. Never have I found a book more successful at indoctrinating the reader into the madness of the characters, and I’m sure Merricat and Constance will live on with you long after finishing this book.