An Introduction to ‘The Parliament’
When thinking of ‘The Parliament’ by Aimee Pokwatka, one might initially recall Daphne du Maurier’s classic, ‘The Birds,’ especially given its infamous adaptation by Alfred Hitchcock. However, ‘The Parliament’ establishes its unique ground swiftly, offering a profound and visceral narrative that’s far more than mere avian horror.
A Cast Like No Other
The novel centers around an eclectic group of characters trapped within the historic Elmswood Public Library. From law students and nonbinary theater kids to regimented librarians and apple-juggling cosmetic chemists, each character brings a unique flavor to the story. Central among them is Madigan ‘Mad’ Purdy, who finds herself teaching a group of preteens how to make bath bombs whilst facing the sudden and inexplicable threat of tiny, murderous owls.
Deeper Themes and Extraordinary Narratives
Pokwatka’s true genius shines through her double-layer storytelling. Interwoven with the immediate terror is a fairy tale, ‘The Silent Queen,’ read aloud by Mad to keep her students calm. This tale echoes Patricia McKillip’s evocative stories or a Guillermo del Toro reimagining of a Disney classic, featuring Queen Alala who rules from a tall tower, exchanging her voice for a peculiar boon.
A Masterpiece in Modern Horror Literature
‘The Parliament’ isn’t just a simple
