A Haunting Tale of Grief and Dishonesty
‘The Dark We Know’ by Wen-Yi Lee is not for the faint of heart. This debut novel masterfully intertwines supernatural forces with the raw and poignant experience of grief and dishonesty. The story revolves around Isadora Chang, who is forced to return to her restrictive and judgmental hometown, Slater, following the death of her abusive father. Haunted by memories of her childhood friends, Zach and Wren, Isadora is desperate to leave again.
Confronting Sinister Supernatural Forces
The back-to-back deaths of Zach and Wren had initially pushed Isadora to leave Slater for the city. However, upon her return, she is confronted by Mason, the only other survivor from their childhood friend group. Mason shares his suspicion that Zach and Wren’s deaths were the result of a sinister supernatural force plaguing the community. Faced with this revelation, Isa must decide whether to flee or stay and confront this terrifying force.
Character Depth and Intricacies
Lee’s novel is an exploration of ruined innocence, drawn through the complex characters and their interactions. Isa and Mason’s journey is one of grappling with immense loss — not just of their friends, but also their shared childhood and camaraderie. The cast of characters, from Isa’s older sister Trish to the enigmatic Otto Vandersteen, each harbor secrets that add layers to the storyline. The mystery of the town unfolds as Isa learns to be vulnerable and confront the ghosts of the past.
Emotional and Supernatural Elements
‘The Dark We Know’ does not shy away from the visceral depiction of supernatural elements. Isa’s nightmares and memories take physical form in gruesome drawings of people dying, which she has no recollection of creating. These supernatural horrors are rooted in the oppressive atmosphere of Slater, a former mining town with a culture that shuns those who challenge its rigid views on religion, sexuality, and lifestyle.
An Uplifting Journey Amidst Darkness
Despite its dark imagery and heavy subject matter, ‘The Dark We Know’ is ultimately a resonant and uplifting story about the power of hope and human connection. The characters, amidst intense sadness, learn to genuinely lean on each other. The novel is a profound exploration of how grief can both shatter and strengthen the human spirit.
