The best 7 Weird books

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1
Weird Books: Grasshopper Jungle by Andrew Smith

Grasshopper Jungle

Andrew Smith

What's Grasshopper Jungle about?

Grasshopper Jungle by Andrew Smith is a young adult science fiction novel that follows the story of a teenage boy named Austin who inadvertently unleashes a plague of giant, man-eating praying mantises on his small town. As the town descends into chaos, Austin grapples with his own identity and relationships, ultimately leading to a thrilling and unexpected conclusion.

Who should read Grasshopper Jungle?

  • Readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories with a unique and quirky twist

  • Those interested in exploring themes of identity, sexuality, and the complexities of adolescence

  • Individuals who appreciate dark humor and unconventional storytelling


2
Weird Books: Jagannath by Karin Tidbeck

Jagannath

Karin Tidbeck

What's Jagannath about?

Jagannath by Karin Tidbeck is a collection of mesmerizing and surreal short stories that blend science fiction and fantasy. Set in a world where the boundaries between reality and imagination are blurred, Tidbeck explores themes of identity, transformation, and the unknown. From a woman who gives birth to a mechanical child to a society living inside a giant creature, each story is thought-provoking and beautifully crafted.

Who should read Jagannath?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and unconventional speculative fiction

  • Those who appreciate stories that blend elements of science fiction, fantasy, and surrealism

  • People who are open to exploring existential themes and unconventional narrative structures


3
Weird Books: Railsea by China Miéville

Railsea

China Miéville

What's Railsea about?

Railsea is a captivating novel by China Miéville that reimagines Moby Dick in a world covered by endless railway tracks. It follows a young apprentice named Sham as he embarks on a dangerous journey across the railsea, encountering giant moles, pirates, and other perils. With its unique setting and gripping storytelling, this book offers a thrilling adventure for readers of all ages.

Who should read Railsea?

  • Readers who enjoy imaginative and thought-provoking speculative fiction

  • Those with an interest in alternative and unique storytelling styles

  • People who appreciate complex world-building and exploration of philosophical themes


4
Weird Books: The Great God Pan by Arthur Machen

The Great God Pan

Arthur Machen

What's The Great God Pan about?

The Great God Pan by Arthur Machen is a classic horror novella that delves into the dark world of the supernatural. Published in 1894, it tells the story of a sinister experiment that unleashes a monstrous entity known as the Great God Pan. Filled with eerie atmosphere and psychological terror, this book is a must-read for fans of Victorian horror.

Who should read The Great God Pan?

  • Readers who enjoy classic horror literature

  • Those interested in exploring the darker aspects of human nature

  • Individuals who appreciate atmospheric and thought-provoking storytelling


5
Weird Books: The Hike by Drew Magary

The Hike

Drew Magary

What's The Hike about?

The Hike by Drew Magary follows the story of a man who goes on a seemingly ordinary hike in the woods, only to find himself in a bizarre and fantastical world. As he navigates through this strange landscape, he encounters a series of unusual characters and uncovers dark secrets about his own life. Filled with unexpected twists and turns, this novel is a thrilling and thought-provoking adventure.

Who should read The Hike?

  • Readers who enjoy unconventional and mind-bending stories

  • Adventure seekers looking for a unique and immersive reading experience

  • Those who appreciate dark humor and unexpected plot twists


6
Weird Books: The Strange Bird by Jeff VanderMeer

The Strange Bird

Jeff VanderMeer

What's The Strange Bird about?

The Strange Bird is a captivating and thought-provoking book that delves into themes of identity, freedom, and the power of storytelling. Set in a dystopian world, it follows the journey of a mysterious bird-like creature as she escapes from a sinister laboratory and embarks on a quest for autonomy and purpose. With beautiful prose and a unique narrative style, Jeff VanderMeer crafts a mesmerizing tale that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

Who should read The Strange Bird?

  • Readers who enjoy speculative fiction and surreal storytelling

  • Those interested in exploring themes of identity, freedom, and the nature of humanity

  • People who appreciate rich and imaginative world-building


7
Weird Books: The Willows by Algernon Blackwood

The Willows

Algernon Blackwood

What's The Willows about?

The Willows is a classic horror novella by Algernon Blackwood that follows two friends on a canoe trip down the Danube River. As they navigate through a remote and eerie landscape, they encounter strange and malevolent forces that threaten their very existence. Blending elements of supernatural and psychological horror, the book delves into the primal fears of the unknown and the power of nature.

Who should read The Willows?

  • Readers who enjoy atmospheric and psychological horror

  • Those who appreciate classic supernatural fiction

  • People with a fascination for the mysteries of nature and the unknown


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 FAQs 

What's the best Weird book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Grasshopper Jungle as the ultimate read on Weird.

What are the Top 10 Weird books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Grasshopper Jungle by Andrew Smith
  • Jagannath by Karin Tidbeck
  • Railsea by China Miéville
  • The Great God Pan by Arthur Machen
  • The Hike by Drew Magary
  • The Strange Bird by Jeff VanderMeer
  • The Willows by Algernon Blackwood

Who are the top Weird book authors?

When it comes to Weird, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Andrew Smith
  • Karin Tidbeck
  • China Miéville
  • Arthur Machen
  • Drew Magary