Invisible Fences

This flawed novella, the first stand-alone publication by short story writer Prentiss, covers well-worn ground while adding little of interest. Nathan and Pam are children in suburban Maryland “in the post-hippie 1970s.” Their neurotic parents warn of drug fiends in the woods and fatal car accidents, creating the titular boundaries to keep the children safe by making them afraid. When Pam, Nathan and Nathan’s best friend, Aaron, go beyond those fences and into the woods, Aaron falls into a stream as Nathan watches, too frightened to help him. Most of the story is narrated by adult Nathan, now living in Alabama, taking care of his parents and reminiscing about his childhood. Though he’s eventually forced to confront some dark truths about his life, neither thrills nor chills result, and the abrupt ending cuts the story off just as Nathan becomes interesting. Those who shell out for this limited edition may find it a poor bargain. (July)