Ellie Sanders' See How They Run is a gripping and eerie exploration of the dark underbelly of adolescence, privilege, and the supernatural. Set against the backdrop of Wisteria High, the novel delves into the life of Briar Hartley, a character who embodies the quintessential high school queen bee. Sanders crafts a narrative that is both chilling and thought-provoking, weaving together elements of horror, fantasy, and psychological drama.
The premise of the story is immediately intriguing. The Lull Lane Dollmaker's creation of porcelain dolls infused with the souls of lullabies sets the stage for a tale that is as haunting as it is original. This concept of dolls being more than mere playthings is reminiscent of classic horror tropes, yet Sanders manages to infuse it with a fresh and modern twist. The idea that these dolls are linked to the children they were gifted to, and that the Dollmaker is now coming to collect, adds a layer of suspense and inevitability that keeps readers on edge.
At the heart of the story is Briar Hartley, a character who is both fascinating and repelling. Sanders does not shy away from painting Briar in a negative light; she is rich, ruthless, and unapologetically self-centered. Her transformation from a high school tyrant to something more monstrous is both literal and metaphorical. As Briar's body begins to betray her, with fur growing across her skin and her teeth sharpening, Sanders expertly parallels this physical transformation with Briar's internal descent into her predatory instincts. This dual transformation is a testament to Sanders' skill in character development, as she peels back the layers of Briar's personality to reveal the darkness within.
The theme of transformation is central to the novel. Briar's metamorphosis is not just a physical one but also a journey of self-discovery. As her body changes, so too does her understanding of herself and her place in the world. Sanders uses this transformation to explore themes of identity, power, and the nature of humanity. Briar's journey is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked privilege and the inherent darkness that can reside within us all.
Sanders' writing is both evocative and atmospheric. She has a knack for creating vivid imagery that brings the story to life. The descriptions of Briar's transformation are particularly striking, with Sanders capturing the horror and beauty of her metamorphosis in equal measure. The whispers of the doll, the darkening rhymes, and the creeping sense of dread are all expertly woven into the narrative, creating a tension that is palpable throughout the novel.
In terms of character development, Sanders excels in creating a protagonist who is complex and multi-dimensional. Briar is not a character who is easy to like, but she is undeniably compelling. Her journey from a superficial high school queen to a creature of instinct and hunger is both tragic and fascinating. Sanders does not offer easy answers or redemption for Briar, instead presenting her as a character who is both a victim and a perpetrator of her own fate.
Comparatively, See How They Run shares thematic elements with other works in the horror and fantasy genres. The concept of dolls with sinister purposes can be seen in works like Henry James' The Turn of the Screw and the more contemporary Coraline by Neil Gaiman. However, Sanders' novel stands out for its focus on the intersection of adolescence and the supernatural, a theme that is explored with depth and nuance.
Overall, See How They Run is a compelling and unsettling read that will appeal to fans of horror and dark fantasy. Sanders has crafted a story that is both a cautionary tale and a thrilling exploration of the darker aspects of human nature. The novel's themes of transformation, identity, and the consequences of privilege are handled with skill and insight, making it a thought-provoking addition to the genre.
For readers seeking a story that is both chilling and thought-provoking, See How They Run offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Sanders' ability to blend horror with psychological depth makes this novel a standout, and Briar Hartley's journey is one that will linger in the minds of readers long after the final page is turned.
