“White is for witching, a colour to be worn so that all other colours can enter you, so that you may use them. At a pinch, cream will do.” ― Helen Oyeyemi, White Is for Witching
What better way to celebrate the spookiest month of the year than to read a spooky novel? For the month of October, I have chosen Helen Oyeyemi’s White is for Witching.
The novel follows Miranda Silver, a daughter of the owners of the Silver House bed and breakfast and inn, who inherits a family history filled with eating disorders, mysterious and strange occurrences, and haunting secrets. As her ancestral home displays unusual behavior, she must confront her family’s dark past in order to confront her present and future. The novel combines magical realism and gothic horror, making it an ideal read for spooky evenings.
The novel intricately weaves together themes of isolation, where characters grapple with their solitude and grief, love and agency, autonomy and sustenance. Together, these elements craft a captivating and enchanting narrative that stands out as a classic within the genre of sapphic fiction. A horror novel before its time.
As I delved into this novel, I found myself continually amazed by the author’s distinctive talent and craftsmanship. The prose not only flowed exceptionally well but also infused the reader with a palpable sense of dedication and creativity that truly put this book on my ‘favorites’ shelf. The plot unfolded with a particular precision, never deviating from the author’s vision for the narrative, which kept me fully engaged throughout the reading experience.
However, I must admit that there were moments when the material felt quite challenging to confront. Even the creator of the blog Mr Volpone, and author of weird, queer, and Gothic fiction and poetry Ambrose Hall writes, “White is for Witching is an uncomfortable read, both as a horror novel and a spotlight on the sickness of racism, but in the best way. Excellent queer horror.”
The themes explored within the story were at times deeply unsettling and emotionally charged, which made certain passages more difficult to process. Yet, despite these heavy topics, the quality of the writing itself was exceptional, drawing me in and compelling me to continue even when I felt weighed down, and at times confused by the shifting timelines and different essences given from the content. Ultimately, I found it nearly impossible to set the book aside; its gripping nature and the author’s voice kept me turning pages late into the night.
And while the substance was what kept me reading the novel, I would have to say the plot twists, characters, and romance kept me thoroughly engaged.
In summary, this book explores themes of strife, despair, longing, body, love, and sorrow, pushing and pulling the boundaries of what is real and what is make-believe. By the end, you will find yourself questioning just what is happening to Miranda Silver.
Meet the blogger:
SHACHEYANNA JOHNSON is a reader who enjoys all things spooky and goes bump in the night. Who likes things that make you leap and shriek in fright.
