A collection of short stories by Shirley Jackson, published in the Penguin Modern series. The book showcases Jackson's extraordinary talent for turning ordinary situations into unsettling and psychologically rich narratives.

The stories explore themes of loneliness, social anxiety, family tensions, hidden fears, and the darker aspects of everyday life. Rather than relying on overt horror, Jackson creates unease through subtle psychological insight and the gradual revelation of human insecurities and obsessions.

The title story, "The Missing Girl," reflects Jackson's ability to blur the line between reality and perception, while other stories in the collection highlight her sharp observations of human behavior and social dynamics.

Although brief, the collection offers a strong introduction to Jackson's work and demonstrates why she remains one of the most influential writers of psychological suspense and literary horror. Readers who enjoy her famous works such as The Haunting of Hill House and We Have Always Lived in the Castle will appreciate these shorter pieces as well.