Review of Hell Followed with Us by Andrew Joseph White
When I stumbled upon Hell Followed with Us, I was immediately drawn by its promise of a fierce narrative woven with themes of identity, survival, and strength. The author, Andrew Joseph White, doesn’t just write a story; he thrusts us into a world pulsating with passion, fear, and resilience. As a late-night reader looking for something raw and revolutionary, I knew I had to dive into Benji’s tumultuous journey.
At the heart of this compelling narrative is Benji, a sixteen-year-old trans boy grappling with the aftermath of an apocalyptic event unleashed by the fundamentalist cult that raised him. The trope of running from the past is not new, but White’s portrayal adds a fresh layer of urgency. The stakes are high. Benji is not just running from his oppressive upbringing; he’s also battling the very monster he’s been infected with—a bioweapon that could decimate humanity. This dual conflict not only heightened the tension but also mirrored Benji’s struggle with his own identity.
One of White’s greatest achievements is how he constructs his characters. Benji, alongside the diverse ensemble from the Acheson LGBTQ+ Center (the ALC), feels like a family struggling to find their place in a world that has forsaken them. The character of Nick, the ALC’s leader, radiates a strength that’s both intriguing and tender; his relationship with Benji beautifully tackles themes of acceptance and love amid chaos. I found myself rooting for them not just as individuals but as symbols of hope in a narrative that often teeters on the brink of despair.
White’s writing style is visceral and evocative, capturing the grotesque and the beautiful with an expert hand. I was captivated by how vividly he painted scenes of both horror and tenderness. Descriptors like “monsters born from destruction” hit you hard, and yet, there are tender moments that made my heart swell. The pacing is brisk; I often found myself racing through pages, compelled by a narrative that felt like it mirrored the urgency of life itself.
One quote that resonated deeply with me was Benji’s reflection on belonging: “Eager to belong, I accepted Nick’s terms.” It encapsulates the longing for community and connection that many of us can relate to, especially those of us who have felt on the periphery. The book doesn’t shy away from showing the pain of being othered, yet through Benji’s eyes, it offers a glimmer of what it means to reclaim that power.
Hell Followed with Us is a heartfelt scream against the backdrop of unspeakable horrors—a commentary on real-world issues of anti-trans legislation and societal rejection that too many face today. Readers searching for a book that challenges norms and provokes thought will find solace and empowerment in Benji’s journey. It’s ultimately a reminder: even amid chaos, we can emerge stronger, creating families out of choice rather than blood.
If you’re a fan of thought-provoking narratives infused with elements of horror, identity, and survival, I cannot recommend this book enough. It’s a rollercoaster of emotion that left me breathless and reflective—a profound reading experience I won’t soon forget. Thank you, Andrew Joseph White, for this beautifully chaotic tale that feels like a warm hug after confronting the darkest fears.
You can find Hell Followed with Us here >>