Something Wicked This Way Comes: A Sound of Thunder

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One of Ray Bradbury's best-known and most popular novels, Something Wicked This Way Comes , now featuring a new introduction and material about its longstanding influence on culture and genre. For those who still dream and remember, for those yet to experience the hypnotic power of its dark poetry, step inside. The show is about to begin. Cooger & Dark's Pandemonium Shadow Show has come to Green Town, Illinois, to destroy every life touched by its strange and sinister mystery. The carnival rolls in sometime after midnight, ushering in Halloween a week early. A calliope's shrill siren song beckons to all with a seductive promise of dreams and youth regained. Two boys will discover the secret of its smoke, mazes, and mirrors; two friends who will soon know all too well the heavy cost of wishes...and the stuff of nightmares. Few novels have endured in the heart and memory as has Ray Bradbury's unparalleled literary masterpiece Something Wicked This Way Comes . Scary and suspenseful, it is a timeless classic in the American canon.

0 pages, Audiobook

First published January 1,1962

About the author

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Ray Douglas Bradbury was an American author and screenwriter. One of the most celebrated 20th-century American writers, he worked in a variety of genres, including fantasy, science fiction, horror, mystery, and realistic fiction.
Bradbury is best known for his novel Fahrenheit 451 (1953) and his short-story collections The Martian Chronicles (1950), The Illustrated Man (1951), and The October Country (1955). Other notable works include the coming of age novel Dandelion Wine (1957), the dark fantasy Something Wicked This Way Comes (1962) and the fictionalized memoir Green Shadows, White Whale (1992). He also wrote and consulted on screenplays and television scripts, including Moby Dick and It Came from Outer Space. Many of his works were adapted into television and film productions as well as comic books. Bradbury also wrote poetry which has been published in several collections, such as They Have Not Seen the Stars (2001).
The New York Times called Bradbury "An author whose fanciful imagination, poetic prose, and mature understanding of human character have won him an international reputation" and "the writer most responsible for bringing modern science fiction into the literary mainstream".

Community Reviews

Rating(4.1 / 5.0, 92 votes)
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92 reviews All reviews
July 15,2025
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I really liked this story, but it took me a while to fully get into it. At first, I was a bit hesitant and not sure what to expect. However, as I continued reading, the story gradually drew me in and held my attention.

It was a creepy story that had a certain charm to it. The author did a great job of creating an atmosphere of mystery and unease. The details and descriptions were vivid, making it easy for me to picture the scenes in my mind.

There were times when I felt a shiver down my spine as I read certain parts. The plot was engaging and kept me guessing until the very end. Overall, it was a great read that I would recommend to others who enjoy creepy and mysterious stories.

I'm looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
July 15,2025
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This was an extremely cool story. It was not only very dark but also of extremely high quality.

The short story that followed Something Wicked This Way Comes is without a doubt one of my absolute favorites throughout my entire life.

I have a deep affection for the way it explores and handles the concept of what would occur when one alters the past.

It delves into the complex and often unpredictable consequences that can arise from such a bold act.

The storyteller does an excellent job of painting a vivid picture of the potential chaos and confusion that could ensue.

It makes the reader really stop and think about the implications of meddling with the fabric of time.

Overall, it's a captivating and thought-provoking piece that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

July 15,2025
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A Memorable Line from Shakespeare's Macbeth

A sinister carnival descends upon a small town just before Halloween. It brings with it an air of mystery and unease.

Two boys find themselves in the midst of a strange situation as they face off against the weird and somewhat satanic visitors. Their father also joins them in this battle between good and evil.

The story unfolds with a sense of excitement and anticipation. The boys must use their wits and courage to overcome the challenges presented by the carnival.

While the plot may have a bit too much of a young adult feel for my taste, it is still a pretty good read. The characters are well-developed, and the setting adds to the overall atmosphere of the story.

Shakespeare's Macbeth is known for its memorable lines, and this story seems to draw inspiration from that. It makes me wonder what other elements of the play might be incorporated into the narrative.

Overall, it's a story that keeps you engaged and makes you think about the forces of good and evil that exist within us all.
July 15,2025
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Probably would have liked this better if I had read it. At first, I thought it was a boy and a girl who were best friends. This was because of a really girly voice. However, as I continued to listen, I noticed that there was a bit of cussing in this. It kind of took away from the overall experience for me. I understand that some people might not mind the cussing, but for me, it just didn't seem to fit. I wonder if the story would have been more enjoyable if it had been told without the use of such language. Maybe I'll give it another try and read it instead of listening. That way, I can focus more on the story itself and not be distracted by the cussing.

July 15,2025
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I'm currently listening to this audiobook, and it's like a magical journey that has made me fall in love with Bradbury all over again.

It's truly amazing how his words still have the power to captivate and inspire me after all these years.

I haven't felt this excited and juiced about him since I first read 'Illustrated Man' 20 years ago.

That initial encounter with his work was a life-changing experience, and now, listening to this audiobook, it's as if I'm rediscovering all the reasons why I fell in love with his writing in the first place.

Bradbury's ability to create vivid and imaginative worlds, filled with complex characters and thought-provoking themes, is simply unparalleled.

I can't wait to see where this audiobook takes me next and how it will further deepen my appreciation for this literary genius.
July 15,2025
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The experience was not bad, but it also wasn't mind blowing. In fact, I'm already forgetting about it. It had its moments, but nothing truly stood out. There were no extraordinary features or elements that left a lasting impression. It was just an average encounter that didn't manage to capture my attention or engage me on a deeper level. Maybe it was lacking in excitement or innovation. Or perhaps it simply didn't align with my personal interests. Whatever the reason, it failed to make a significant impact. As time passes, it's fading from my memory, becoming just another forgettable event in the long list of experiences I've had.

July 15,2025
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Ideal blustery, crackly leaves and pumpkin spice-filled October reading offers a unique experience.

It can be sinister, mysterious, thought-provoking, and oddly touching at moments.

The stories have the power to transport you to a different world, filled with hidden secrets and unexpected twists.

One can easily see how Stephen King was influenced by the author, especially when it comes to writing about kids and their deep friendships.

The way these relationships are portrayed is both heartwarming and a little bit eerie.

As you turn the pages, you can't help but be drawn into the lives of the characters, sharing their joys and sorrows.

October reading is not just about entertainment; it's also a chance to explore the darker side of human nature and to question our own beliefs and values.

So, grab a cup of pumpkin spice latte, curl up in a cozy chair, and let the magic of these stories unfold before your eyes.
July 15,2025
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I truly love this story. It has withstood the test of time and remains as engaging as ever. This was the first time I listened to it in audio format, and it was a whole new experience. The narrator's voice brought the characters and the plot to life, adding an extra layer of depth and emotion. As I listened, I found myself completely immersed in the story, following every twist and turn. It was like going on a journey with the characters, sharing their joys and sorrows. The audio version also allowed me to listen while doing other things, such as driving or exercising, which made it even more convenient. Overall, I would highly recommend this story, whether you read it or listen to it in audio. It's a classic that everyone should experience at least once.

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