Cursed Bunny

by Bora Chung
Cursed Bunny cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Short Story Collections
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Format • £12.34
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Technical
  • ID: 2210
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9781643755007
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2022-12-06
  • Formats: 6
  • Reviews: 3

Cursed Bunny is a unique and imaginative collection of stories that defy categorization, blending horror, sci-fi, fairy tales, and speculative fiction. The stories are set in a haunting universe that could be our own, where monsters take the shapes of furry woodland creatures and danger lurks in unexpected corners of everyday life. Each story is distinct, ranging from a woman haunted by her own bodily waste to a dystopian gynecology office where a pregnant woman faces horrific consequences. The titular story centers on a cursed lamp in the shape of a rabbit, fit for a child’s bedroom but with sinister capabilities. /n/n Translated by the acclaimed Anton Hur, Chung’s stories are thought-provoking and stomach-turning, with a wit and frenetic energy that makes them impossible to put down. The collection has been compared to the work of Carmen Maria Machado and Aoko Matsuda, praised for its blisteringly strange and powerful narratives.

Reviews
Reddit - r/horrorlit · 2025-10-13
disturbing 4.75

The collection is praised for its grotesque and effective horror elements, making it a standout in the genre. The reviewer found the stories to be both disturbing and captivating.

This reviewer was genuinely impressed by the horror elements in 'Cursed Bunny', finding some parts so grotesque that they had to pause reading. They see this as a mark of great horror, as it evokes a strong emotional response. The collection's ability to blend surrealism with horror was particularly effective, creating a sense of unease that lingered long after each story. They appreciated how the stories pushed boundaries and delivered a unique and chilling experience, making it one of the best short story collections they've read.

Quick quotes

    One of the best short story books I've read.

    Some parts are so grotesque I had to pause reading, which for me is a mark of a great horror book.

    The collection's ability to blend surrealism with horror was particularly effective.

I Would Rather Be Reading Blog · 2024-04-16
exciting 4.50

The collection offers a diverse range of stories that surprise and delight with their variety. The reviewer was impressed by the seamless transitions between different genres and tones.

This reviewer was genuinely surprised by the breadth of styles and themes within 'Cursed Bunny'. They found that each story offered something unique, making the collection feel fresh and exciting. The blend of horror, humor, and social commentary was particularly noteworthy, as it kept them engaged throughout. They appreciated how the stories challenged their expectations and provided a rich, varied reading experience. Overall, they found this to be one of the most eclectic and satisfying short story collections they've encountered.

Quick quotes

    This is the most varied assortment of stories I've ever encountered in one book!

    I thought I knew what I was getting into with this collection, but I was pleasantly surprised.

    The seamless transitions between terrifying and wryly humorous moments are a testament to Chung's skill.

ArtReview · 2022-08-02
thought-provoking 4.00

The stories blend genres to critique societal norms, offering a unique and thought-provoking read. The reviewer found the social commentary to be both insightful and unsettling.

This reviewer was struck by how 'Cursed Bunny' weaves together magical realism, horror, and folklore to create a tapestry of social critique. They found the stories to be deeply unsettling, not just because of their supernatural elements, but because of their sharp commentary on modern society. The collection's ability to blend genres while maintaining a cohesive theme of capitalism and its consequences was particularly impressive. They felt that Chung's work challenges readers to reflect on their own roles within these systems, making for a thought-provoking and memorable reading experience.

Quick quotes

    The fictional short-stories blend the genres of magical realism, horror, fantasy and folklore, with some of those reading like critiques of social standards.

    Chung's work challenges readers to reflect on their own roles within these systems.

    The collection's ability to blend genres while maintaining a cohesive theme of capitalism and its consequences was particularly impressive.

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