The Lottery and Other Stories

by Shirley Jackson

Good Books rating 4.38

Short Story Collections

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ID: 5650
Added: 2025-10-24
Updated: 2025-12-30
Published: 2000-01-01
Formats: 2
Reviews: 4

Shirley Jackson's 'The Lottery and Other Stories' is a haunting compilation that showcases her extraordinary talent for blending the mundane with the macabre. The collection, which includes the infamous 'The Lottery,' was met with both shock and acclaim upon its release, leaving readers with 'nights of unrest.' Jackson's stories span a wide range of emotions and themes, from the hilariously absurd to the deeply unsettling, demonstrating her unparalleled skill as a storyteller. This collection is the only one published during Jackson's lifetime and features twenty-four stories that highlight her remarkable range. Each tale is crafted with precision and a keen eye for the eerie, making this book a must-read for those who appreciate literature that challenges and disturbs.

Reviews

clydeumney.wordpress.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24

chilling 4.50

The Lottery and Other Stories by Shirley Jackson is a collection of eerie and thought-provoking tales that delve into the darker aspects of human nature. The stories are masterfully crafted, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Shirley Jackson's The Lottery and Other Stories is a compelling collection that showcases her talent for creating unsettling and memorable narratives. Each story is a gem, exploring themes of conformity, fear, and the supernatural in ways that are both chilling and insightful. The Lottery, in particular, is a standout piece that challenges the reader's perceptions of tradition and violence. The collection is a must-read for fans of psychological horror and literary fiction, offering a deep dive into the complexities of human behavior. Jackson's writing is sharp and evocative, making each story a journey into the unknown. The themes are timeless, and the stories remain relevant, making this a collection that will stay with the reader long after the last page is turned.

Quick quotes

The Lottery is a story that will haunt you long after you've finished reading.

Jackson's ability to create a sense of dread is unparalleled.

The collection is a masterclass in short storytelling, with each tale offering a unique and unsettling experience.

Readers Retreat · 2023-12-27

terrific 4.50

This collection is a terrific read, showcasing Jackson's ability to blend horror and subtlety. The stories are atmospheric and leave a lasting impression.

If you're looking for a chilling and thought-provoking read, this collection is perfect. The reviewer found it to be a terrific collection, highlighting Jackson's mastery in creating an atmosphere of horror and terror. The stories are not just overtly horrifying but also subtly unsettling, making it a memorable read. They particularly appreciated how Jackson blends comedy and horror, making the collection even more engaging. The reviewer suggests that this is a must-read for anyone who enjoys psychological horror and thought-provoking fiction.

Quick quotes

As expected, it turned out to be a terrific collection.

Jackson was a master at creating an atmosphere of horror and terror within the seemingly mundane.

The stories are not just overtly horrifying but also subtly unsettling, making it a memorable read.

warmdayswillnevercease.wordpress.com · Unknown · 2021-03-10

haunting 4.50

The Lottery and Other Stories by Shirley Jackson is a haunting collection that explores themes of horror, racism, and conformity. The stories are masterfully written, creating an atmosphere of terror within domestic spaces and subtly critiquing societal norms. The collection is highly recommended for those interested in Jackson's work and short story collections.

The Lottery and Other Stories by Shirley Jackson is a collection that leaves a lasting impression. The stories delve into various themes, including horror, racism, and the brutality of conformity. In 'After You, My Dear Alphonse,' Jackson reveals the sinister nature of domestic spaces and the learned trait of racism. 'The Renegade' is a harrowing tale that affects the reader long after finishing it, while 'The Lottery' is a culmination of the collection's themes, highlighting the horrors of suburbia and the need to reject senseless traditions. Jackson's writing is skillful, creating an atmosphere of terror and critiquing societal norms. This collection is a must-read for those interested in Jackson's work and short story collections.

Quick quotes

Jackson reveals the domestic space — a space which is often portrayed as a safe haven — as cruel and harsh.

I was horrified by this story and every so often my brain likes to say 'hey, remember that story that was harrowing? do you want to relive your reading experience in excruciating detail and only think about that story for the rest of the day?'.

The Lottery' was one of my favourite stories out of the entire collection. It was fantastically written and horrifyingly realistic.

The Guardian · 2011-01-15

sparkling 4.00

This collection sparkles with comedy and horror, showcasing Jackson's versatility as a writer. The stories are a delightful mix of the terrifying and the humorous.

The reviewer was particularly impressed by the sparkling comedy in this collection, which is often overshadowed by Jackson's reputation as a horror novelist. They found that the two genres are seamlessly combined, making the stories even more compelling. The reviewer highlights that Jackson's ability to create a sense of dread and unease is unparalleled, and her stories leave a lasting impact on the reader. They suggest that this collection is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good mix of horror and comedy.

Quick quotes

There is sparkling comedy in this collection, as well as glimpses of Jackson the horror novelist.

The two are combined in 'The Witch' to great effect.

Jackson's ability to create a sense of dread and unease is unparalleled.

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