Deserter: Junji Ito Story Collection

In a small, isolated house, a family grapples with the repercussions of war and the dark secrets they harbor. After World War II, they choose to protect an army deserter, whose presence brings both a feeling of safety and an underlying dread. As the years pass, the tension between loyalty and the moral weight of their choices begins to unravel, revealing the complexities of human nature in the face of turmoil.

Junji Ito masterfully weaves horror and psychological suspense, creating an atmosphere that is both haunting and captivating. The interactions within the family and with the outside world become fraught with mistrust and paranoia, showcasing the grotesque aspects of their hidden reality. Each character's descent into their own psyche reflects the scars of war and the burden of guilt that lingers long after the fighting has stopped.

This gripping collection invites readers to explore themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the fear of discovery. It deepens the understanding of how individuals cope with the horrors of their past while navigating the intricate web of family bonds and societal expectations. As the story unfolds, the unsettling presence of the deserter becomes a catalyst for revelations that shatter their fragile existence.