For most, the feeling of moving into a new home is one of happiness, a hope that things will go well. And while it certainly can feel strange at first, eventually you get more familiar with your new environment, and your worries fade away. But what if they didn’t? This is how The Navidson Record begins. However, this is only half of the story of House of Leaves, a psychological horror novel by Mark Z. Danielewski. Among the often-jumbled pages are the words of one Johnny Truant, whose story unfolds alongside the tale of the Navidsons as you read further.
House of Leaves explores a variety of themes, notably the effects of stress on relationships and the lasting impact trauma can have on people. These can be seen prominently in Johnny, who, as you read through The Navidson Record, slowly loses his grip on reality and spirals into madness trying to transcribe the very manuscript you are reading. But what is it about? The Navidson Record, written by a mysterious old man only known as Zampanò, follows the story of Will Navidson and his family as they move into a new house. Will, trying to repair the strained relationship with his wife Karen, tries to spend more time together. However, the house has other plans, and things quickly go south as Will’s insatiable curiosity leads him deeper into its secrets.
House of Leaves is an incredibly well-written work of fiction and certainly a unique one. The act of reading this novel is an experience in itself, forcing you to shift the book physically. Danielewski also does an excellent job of intertwining the two main stories. Just as a significant event occurs in one story, something else is happening in the other. Additionally, as you might have noticed, there are some other interesting characteristics in the formatting. If this sounds like a book you want to read, you can find House of Leaves at your local library.
