There Are No Giant Crabs In This Novel: A Novel of Giant Crabs by Jason Pargin
Release Date: 11/3/26 (digital and audio), 12/8/26 (tentative hardcover)
Published by: St. Martin’s Press
By Matt Spaulding
Note: at the time of this writing, this novel is only available in ebook and audiobook formats. Just two weeks before scheduled publication, it was made known that the entire publishing industry is suffering a printing backlog due to supply chain issues related to increased fuel costs and tariffs. The hardcover is tentatively coming out on 12/8/26, although Pargin has stated that even that’s not currently guaranteed. If you are reading this prior to 12/8/26 and want a physical copy, you can still pre-order one from your favorite bookseller.
Oh, what a joy it is to be back in the world of the John Dies at the End series! Although, based on the cover of this latest installment, it looks like it may now be known as the John, Dave and Amy series. Regardless of what the series is ultimately called, Jason Pargin once again envelops us in the world of the town of Undisclosed and the weird things that happen there in this fifth installment.
The thing about this series that keeps me coming back is just how unapologetically weird and dumb it is. Not that Pargin is a dumb writer. Quite the contrary, anyone discovering his novels for the first time from his social media will find that the ideas in his fiction are as smart and interesting as the ones he brings to his daily videos. But the characters are a bit on the dumb side, and Pargin has a unique sense of humor that shines through in the ridiculous shenanigans and personalities of everyone he writes about. I frequently found myself laughing out loud at his turns of phrase and jokes.
This novel once again finds John, Dave, and Amy trying to save Undisclosed from forces from other realms. This time, an interdimensional war threatens to erase the existence of the town if they can’t stop it from encroaching on our reality. Along the way we meet the new cop in town, a couple of strange characters from other dimensions, and an adorable little creature with a massive sweet tooth.
Besides his humor, Pargin is incredibly skilled at pacing and tension. There was no point during this book I actually felt like putting it down. The only reason I ever put it down before I was finished is that I typically read before bed, get sleepy, and have to stop. By the end, I was genuinely wondering how in the world this plot was going to resolve itself because he seemed to have closed all possible doors. That, to me, is excellent storytelling.
Don’t worry if you have never read another John, Dave and Amy book. These are all stand-alone novels and can be read in any order. If you’ve happened to spend time watching Jason Pargin on social media, do yourself, and him, a favor and pick up this book. You’ll have a great time.