Never Whistle at Night is a captivating anthology of dark fiction, showcasing the voices of 26 Indigenous authors from various tribes across America. Each story in the collection delves into Native American experiences, blending traditional tales with modern narratives that reflect the generational traumas inflicted upon Indigenous peoples. The anthology opens with a thought-provoking prologue by Stephen Graham Jones, who challenges readers to recognize that there is more to the world than meets the eye, inviting them to explore the spiritual and corporeal realms intertwined within these stories.
The anthology is unapologetically bold, tackling difficult and often uncomfortable subjects such as gentrification, abuse, and the colonization of Indigenous peoples through the lens of horror. The stories are raw, confronting issues of violence, gore, and emotional trauma head-on, leaving a lasting impact on readers.
One standout story, “White Hills,” left me deeply affected. It explores racism, misogyny, and forced self-mutilation. The story follows Marissa, a woman who is part Native American and married to a wealthy white man. When she discovers she is pregnant, her revelation about her Indigenous heritage enrages her husband. The ensuing events, involving forced abortion and racist comments from her mother-in-law, are chilling and highlight the extremes of bigotry and discrimination faced by people of color. The story powerfully conveys the emotional toll of such racism and the violence that often accompanies it.
Overall, Never Whistle at Night is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about the struggles of Indigenous peoples while also enjoying well-crafted horror fiction. However, it is important to note that the anthology tackles intense and sensitive topics without providing trigger warnings, making it essential for readers to approach the book with caution.
