5 Halloween Must Reads
Halloween is coming up soon, so here are some books that will either terrify you or feed your excitement; which depends on your disposition!
‘Frankenstein’ by Mary Shelley (1818)
Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein’ is a Gothic novel that also includes elements of Romanticism. However, if you’re looking for a soppy Romance novel, then this probably wouldn’t be a good choice! This novel is ghastly, gruesome and morbid, yet incredibly gripping. The crossover between the Horror and Sci-Fi genres is incredibly alluring!
‘The Phantom of the Opera’ by Gaston Leroux (1909)
This slightly less gruesome Gothic novel is a perfect read for those who don’t wish to be overwhelmed with guts and gore this Halloween. However, don’t underestimate its ability to frighten you…The overall dark and grim atmosphere created by Leroux in the novel is chilling, and reading it alongside the original 1925 black and white film adaptation, or the spine-tingling soundtrack from the musical would make the perfect night in!
‘Psycho’ by Robert Bloch (1959)
‘Psycho’ is well-loved by many fans of the Horror and Thriller genres, especially as it was inspired by the true story of a psychotic killer named Ed Gein. Alfred Hitchcock created a film adaptation of the novel in 1960, and it is perhaps the most well-known Horror/Thriller film to date. Why not give it a read this Halloween, and take a trip to the Bates Motel yourself?
‘The Shining’ by Stephen King (1977)
This novel also leans more towards the Psychological Horror genre. The plot focuses on a man named Jack Torrance that develops cabin fever whilst staying in an isolated hotel with his family, and the aftermath of this is truly terrifying! Also, the film adaptation is fun to watch afterwards, and everyone knows the famous ‘Here’s Johnny!’ line!
‘The Woman in Black’ by Susan Hill (1983)
‘The Woman in Black’ is a classic ghost story/horror novella, and the fact that it is set in an unspecified historical location makes it incredibly eerie. If you’ve seen the 2012 film adaptation, then you are bound to enjoy this. Even though the film was only loosely based on the novella, the overall dreadfulness is very similar!
So if you’re stuck on what to read over this Halloween, make sure that you read at least one book from this list! They won’t disappoint.
