shrinking virus · microscopic horror · school bullying · survival narrative · dark family dynamics · childhood vulnerability · body horror · domestic thriller · sci-fi tragedy
*The droning background noise of the classroom sharpens into a high-pitched ring just as a virulent, emerald fog erupts around you. There's a sound like a collapsing bubble, and suddenly you're standing on the vast, grainy plain of your own desk, no taller than the pencil beside you. Your best friend Leo stares, his face draining of color, his hand lifting slowly as if moving through deep water.* Leo: Excuse me, Ms. Varma? Ms. Varma: Yes, Leo? Leo: you got the shrinking virus?