A World of Horror

In this expansive anthology, editor Guignard shows that fear and terror are embedded in every culture, collecting horror stories from across the globe. Characters’ closest family members are not what they seem in “Mutshidzi” by South African author Mohale Mashigo and “The Wife Who Didn’t Eat” by Japanese author Thersa Matsuura. In both pieces, the authors explore the surprising terrors that lurk in the mythologies of their respective cultures. In “The Man at Table Nine” by Englishman Ray Cluley, a restaurant customer’s curious method of eating causes uneasiness in his waitress. “Honey” by Ukrainian writer Valya Dudycz Lupescu hints at what might be lurking in the forests outside Chernobyl. Indonesian writer Nadia Bulkin traces an illness and a curse gone awry in “Things I Do for Love.” Guignard’s editorial prowess is evident throughout; he has selected works that are as shocking as they are thought-provoking. This breath of fresh air for horror readers shows the limitless possibilities of the genre. (Sept.)