From the Neck Up

From the Neck Up is a collection of speculative fiction short stories that presents tales of transformation, technology, and human nature. The stories range from near-future scenarios to surreal alternate realities. Each narrative centers on characters who encounter changes - whether physical, psychological, or societal. The collection includes stories about fungal growths, evolving relationships with artificial intelligence, and shifts in human consciousness. The settings span from domestic spaces to research facilities to post-apocalyptic landscapes. Through these varied backdrops, Whiteley examines how humans adapt, resist, or succumb to forces beyond their control. The collection explores themes of bodily autonomy, environmental change, and the boundaries between natural and artificial life. Through its speculative lens, the book raises questions about what makes us human and how we navigate an increasingly unstable world.

Readers say this short story collection explores body horror and transformation with a strong emphasis on heads, faces, and identity. Most mention the stories range from unsettling to darkly humorous. Readers liked: - The variety of writing styles and tones across stories - Creative takes on traditional horror concepts - Complex themes about identity and human connection - The title story "From the Neck Up" and "Plausible Deniability" receive frequent mentions as standouts Common criticisms: - Several stories feel underdeveloped or end abruptly - The collection feels uneven in quality - Some concepts and metaphors come across as heavy-handed Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (300+ ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (100+ ratings) One reviewer noted: "Each story lingers uncomfortably in your mind long after reading." Another mentioned: "The writing is sharp but some endings left me wanting more resolution."

The Science of Stories by Jonathan Gottschall This study of narrative's role in human evolution explores how stories shape human consciousness and cultural development through scientific and anthropological evidence.

Empire of Things by Frank Trentmann Through material culture analysis, this work traces humanity's relationship with objects from the 15th century to present day, examining how possessions influence identity and society.

The Power of Objects in Eighteenth-Century British America by Jennifer Van Horn An examination of colonial material culture reveals the connections between physical items and social power structures in early American society.

The History of the World in 100 Objects by Neil MacGregor A chronological journey through human civilization uses specific artifacts to demonstrate how objects reflect and shape cultural development across time and geography.

The Social Life of Things by Arjun Appadurai This anthropological analysis presents how commodities and objects gain meaning through their circulation in different cultural contexts and social settings.

🔬 Author Aliya Whiteley consulted anatomical specimens at London's Hunterian Museum while researching the book, including preserved heads from the 18th century. 🎨 Each chapter begins with original illustrations by Hana Jaber, depicting the anatomical structures being discussed in that section. 🏛️ The book explores how ancient Egyptians believed hair continued to grow after death, leading them to include razors and hair-removal tools in burial chambers. 🧬 The text reveals that humans and chimpanzees share almost identical facial muscles, yet humans have evolved more refined control for complex expressions. 📚 Whiteley wrote the book during lockdown in 2020, incorporating cultural shifts in facial perception caused by widespread mask-wearing into her research.