Summary
“I Was a Teenage Slasher” by Stephen Graham Jones is a classic slasher story with a twist. Set in 1989 in Lamesa, Texas, the novel follows Tolly Driver, a good kid with more potential than application. After a near-death experience, Tolly becomes driven by the urge to go on a murderous rampage. The book explores the unfairness of being an outsider and offers a unique perspective from the killer himself
Main Character
The main character in “I Was a Teenage Slasher” is Tolly Driver. Tolly is a good kid with untapped potential, living in Lamesa, Texas, in 1989. After a near-death experience, he becomes driven by an urge to go on a murderous rampage, leading to a unique twist on the classic slasher genre. The novel delves into the unfairness of being an outsider and offers a fresh perspective from the killer’s point of view.
Key Events
I Was a Teenage Slasher,” one of the key events occurs during a big party at Deek Masterson’s house. Most of the teens in attendance meet a gruesome end at the hands of a bizarre supernatural killer. The impetus for these murders is Justin Joss, an undead classmate who died during a vicious prank gone awry. The story unfolds with tension and horror as Tolly Driver, the protagonist, grapples with the urge to go on a murderous rampage himself.
Plot
“I Was a Teenage Slasher” by Stephen Graham Jones is a classic slasher story with a twist. Set in 1989 in Lamesa, Texas, the novel revolves around Tolly Driver, a good kid with untapped potential. The small west Texas town of Lamesa is driven by oil and cotton, where everyone knows everyone else’s business. After a near-death experience stemming from his peanut allergy, Tolly becomes infected with a few drops of Justin’s blood. Driven by an inexplicable urge, he dons a mask and embarks on a murderous rampage through his town. The story unfolds as Tolly writes his own autobiography, offering a fresh perspective from the killer’s point of view
Theme
“I Was a Teenage Slasher” by Stephen Graham Jones explores several themes, including:
- Outsiders and Unfairness: Set in 1989 in Lamesa, Texas, the novel delves into the unfairness of being an outsider in a small west Texas town driven by oil and cotton. Tolly Driver, the protagonist, grapples with this theme as he becomes cursed to kill for revenge.
- Slasher Horror from the Killer’s Perspective: The story offers a fresh twist on the classic slasher genre by narrating from the perspective of the killer, Tolly. It delves into the brutal fairness that governs the slasher world.
- Coming-of-Age and Love: Beyond the blood-curdling horror, the novel unearths coming-of-age themes and intricacies of love that defy slasher rules.
Conclusion
The conclusion of “I Was a Teenage Slasher” is a blend of humor, horror, and heart. Stephen Graham Jones masterfully combines 80s nostalgia with the slasher genre, creating a top-notch coming-of-age story. Tolly Driver, the teenage slasher, grapples with identity, belonging, and growing up on the fringes of society. The novel’s rich character development, authentic Texas setting, and emotional depth make it a must-read for fans of horror and those seeking a fresh take on the slasher narrative.
