The Haunted Blizzard by Aviaq Johnston and Athena Gubbe (illustrator) is a bizarre story set in an equally bizarre blizzard. Some tension, a big reveal, and questions left unanswered. The beautifully dark images tell more of the story than the minimal text. Perhaps for the more mature audiences.
Let me start over. The Haunted Blizzard by Aviaq Johnston and the illustrator Athena Gubbe is a bizarre story. It is set in a blizzard. The students are sent home due to the storm starting. A group of friends wander home, one of them is asked to stay with one family as there are things in the dark. But of course, she doesn’t believe in supernatural events, and goes home to an empty house. Or is it?
No, let’s try again….
Okay, I think you get the idea. I cannot write a review about Johnston’s and Gubbe’s story. If I say anything other than the second paragraph I’ve told you everything. And in fact, I think I might have said too much already. Things are minimalist. Minimal text, illustrations and even action. The only part that has some meat to it are the illustrations. Deep, rich, dark, expressive, without giving much away. They are almost too dark to make out at times. Therefore, if you see light, or lighter areas, pay attention. I mean, really pay attention.
This is a thriller, mystery, slice of life, horror. Well, horror is a bit extreme, but it is spooky and creepy. The reader can feel the intensity of the situation, without having any real action. I really enjoyed the illustrations, though they might not be the most detailed. It is a good, medium-strong tale. I’m not “jumping up and down” and I know that it would make a good “Goodbumps” or “Are You Afraid of the Dark” type mini-episode. It’s Twilight Zone for Teens.
Read via an online reader copy, but currently available. It is good for at least ages 12 and up.
A graphic novel adaptation of Johnston’s short story “Iqsinaqtutalik Piqtuq: The Haunted Blizzard,
