Book Review: Something Wicked This Way Comes (Green Town #2) by Ray Bradbury

- June 23, 2026

Hello, Fellow Book Worms and Book Dragons,

Something Wicked This Way Comes is written by Ray Bradbury and is the second in the Green Town series. First published in 1962 by Avon Books. It it, we are introduced to Will Halloway and Jim Nightshade, two boys with a gift for seeing what others do not. But as typical (or so they think) boys, they are curious, get into mischief, and are constantly at odds with one another's choices. One cold October night a train arrives chugging down the tracks. It carries Cooger and Dark's Pandemonium Theater Company, a circus and side show carnival.

What a great event to be held before Halloween. The boys are beside themselves with excitement. But what they do not know is that this is not your ordinary carnival. And the people not your ordinary performers. Within this group lies a dark secret. A secret that Will and Jim stumble upon, putting their lives in danger.

Something Wicked This Way Comes is pure Autumn joy for those who love the season. Bradbury's writing is vivid and as crisp as the air. His portrayal of two boys discovering the evils of the world is handled very well. He also touches upon aging with Will's father, and shows how age is seen through different eyes. The villainous Mr. Dark is terrifying at times. He is always one step ahead and uses the several of the performers as look-outs and muscle. The mesmerizing narrative culminates to a finale that is tense and filled with dread.

I read Something Wicked This Ways Comes in part with the narration of Christian Rummel. He brings the story to life with many different voices. I loved how he could switch between characters. And his Mr. Dark was menacing to the point I had chills.

Ray Bradbury delivered a five-star read with all the thrills of Autumn and the magic of growing up. I have read this book many times over the decades, and each time I see something new to appreciate. To say this is a classic is an understatement. Bradbury is not only an amazing author. He inspired many authors, like myself, to write stories. I highly recommend this wonderful book.

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