Uncanny

Uncanny is a collection of short stories by Paul Jennings published in 1988. The book contains a series of standalone tales that blend elements of horror, fantasy, and everyday life. The stories feature young protagonists encountering supernatural events and bizarre situations in ordinary settings. From haunted garbage dumps to living tattoos, each narrative presents characters facing unexpected challenges that test their courage and resourcefulness. Parents and authority figures play significant roles throughout the collection, with many stories exploring the dynamic between children and adults. Some tales revolve around bullying, family relationships, and the struggle to be believed when witnessing extraordinary events. The collection explores themes of bravery, justice, and the intersection between the ordinary and supernatural worlds. Jennings creates scenarios that transform familiar Australian settings into spaces where the impossible becomes possible.

Readers say this short story collection delivers the same weird, creepy style as Jennings' other works but with darker themes aimed at older readers. Parents note it's less suitable for younger children compared to his previous books. Likes: - Quick, engaging reads with surprise endings - Unpredictable plots that keep readers guessing - Original concepts and imaginative storytelling - Stories feel distinct from one another Dislikes: - More disturbing content than expected from Jennings - Some stories resolve too abruptly - A few readers found certain plots confusing - Not as child-friendly as his other collections Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (220 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (15 ratings) Sample review quotes: "The perfect mix of weird and unsettling." - Goodreads "These stories stay with you long after reading." - Amazon "Too dark for my 10-year-old who loves his other books." - Goodreads

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🌟 Jennings wrote his first children's book at age 39 after working as a speech pathologist and special education teacher, bringing unique insights to his storytelling. 🦘 Several stories from "Uncanny" were adapted for the popular Australian children's TV series "Round the Twist," which gained international acclaim. 📚 The anthology format of short, spooky tales was inspired by Jennings' experience with reluctant readers, who found shorter stories less intimidating. 🎭 The blend of horror and humor in "Uncanny" pioneered a new style in Australian children's literature, influencing many contemporary authors. 🌏 The book's distinctly Australian settings and colloquialisms helped establish a strong sense of local identity in children's literature during the 1980s and 1990s.