The Body Snatchers is probably the best known example of 50's science fiction, having been adapted for the big screen no less than four times. Yet despite its obvious allegory on the communist witch hunts, what struck me was just how damn creepy it is. Much like John Carpenter's The Thing, the fear comes through paranoia. Apart from our heroes, literally anyone could be a pod-person, which makes any interaction with a minor character a horribly tense experience. Yet considering this was written in 1955, it reads like a modern popular novel. Much like Stephen King (who owes a lot to this book I feel), Finney's prose is never simple yet is accessible enough to grab you and keep hold for the duration.
Yet, like Stephen King, Finney doesn't know how to end his story. After a tense build-up, the novel just ends. Whilst this in itself isn't terrible, its conclusion is just way too convenient and a bit weak. With a story like this, an upbeat finale just doesn't work.
For the most part though, it's excellent.
4/5
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