i liked this a lot better this time, trying to keep in mind some of the analysis given by my book group when i read it last fall. i see a little better what she's doing, and how much more insidious the family and house are than just the obvious (and maybe it's less obvious than i first thought? i still think that's pretty clunky.). the tapestries are a really interesting piece - is her making of the tapestry what captures margaret and keeps her there? i think it must be. i missed that the first time, and that makes for a much much more interesting reading. this was more fun this time around and i'm glad of that, because i want to think of shirley jackson as only a genius. (2.25 stars)

from oct 2023:
this is super disappointing. the writing is mediocre, the "twist" is obvious and poorly hidden (i even wondered if it was supposed to be??), and this is just not her caliber at all. it pains me to say it but it's true. (.5 star) ( )

this is super disappointing. the writing is mediocre, the "twist" is obvious and poorly hidden (i even wondered if it was supposed to be??), and this is just not her caliber at all. it pains me to say it but it's true. ( )

To begin, this short story has nothing, I repeat nothing to do with Christmas. I have no idea why that word is on the cover, or why it was on display with other Christmas books at our local bookstore this past December. Totally strange.

Secondly, as well written as it is, it has a vague, frustrating ending. I'm not even sure what it was. During the story they are waiting for the brother, then he's there, and then he leaves. There is also a grand dance, and a trip up the tower. Interesting and well written but lacking for an ending.

And any connection at all to Christmas. ( )