HellBent by Anthony McGowan is a darkly comedic and thought-provoking YA novel that explores the afterlife with a wicked sense of humour. First published in 2005, this unique and satirical story follows sixteen-year-old Connor O’Neil and his dog, Scrote, after they both die in a freak ice cream truck accident. Instead of the pearly gates, Connor finds himself in hell—where eternal torment involves endless classical music, philosophical reading, and an eccentric cast of underworld misfits, including a transvestite Viking named Olaf and his devilish tormentor, Clarence.
McGowan weaves a wildly original tale filled with absurdity, irreverence, and sharp wit, tackling themes of existentialism, fate, and personal transformation. As Connor embarks on an impossible quest to swap hells, the novel questions the nature of suffering and whether true paradise even exists.
Despite its controversial and sometimes grotesque humour, HellBent has been praised for its clever storytelling and bold take on morality and the afterlife. With its unpredictable twists and open-ended conclusion, the novel leaves readers contemplating life, death, and what might come next. Perfect for fans of dark humour and philosophical fiction, HellBent is an unforgettable read that blends the absurd with the profound.
