Mansfield with Monsters is a post-modernist interpretation of classic Victorian literature, introducing gothic and supernatural elements to pre-existing stories. This transformative subgenre has become increasingly popular since the early 2000’s withnumerous best selling books and film adaptations proving hits in theaters. Mansfield with Monsters draws from Katherine Mansfield’s vast collection of literary works, rewriting select stories and introducing horror and gothic elements from similar works of the time, such as Poe, Crowley or Lovecraft.

I approached this book with no previous exposure to Katherine Mansfield’s work or any understanding of who she was. She was a hugely progressive individual who’s influence was both cultural and literary. Mansfield with Monsters captures the late Victorian/Edwardian tone of post-colonial New Zealand and successfully expands of the predominant themes of class and social division. The horror elements are masterfully woven into the narrative and are drawn from pre-existing elements in the original texts; it is a comfortable fit that feels natural to read. This, coupled with the general unsettling tone and uncomfortable word usages in the stories, creates a book with a very dark and very real atmosphere.

Some stories are not for the faint-hearted, with some scenes of graphic and implied violence, and others have awkward and unsettling sexual connotations which adds to the air of discomfort when reading them. Elements included range from the cosmic nihilism of Lovecraft, to Victorian classics such as vampires or Frankenstein-esque creatures, flesh-eating zombies and ghouls and there’s even a story featuring giant insects and steampunk mech suits.

A fantastic post-humorous collaborative effort, and a brilliant example of New Zealand literary talent. 8/10 stars.