Books Like...

'The Weird and the Eerie' by Mark Fisher explores two distinct subgenres often categorized within Horror, focusing on the strange and the uncanny rather than traditional horror elements. Fisher delves into the concepts of the weird and the eerie, defining them through examples from literature, film, music, and art. The book discusses how these genres challenge standard perceptions and invite speculation on the nature of agency and existence, ultimately aiming to clarify the underlying aesthetics that evoke feelings of unease and fascination.

Fisher's writing style in 'The Weird and the Eerie' is described as lucid and thought-provoking, blending critical theory with accessible language. Through concise definitions and tasteful examples, Fisher successfully navigates complex concepts, offering readers a deeper understanding of the weird and the eerie. Despite some opinions noting a lack of depth in certain sections, the book is praised for its ability to stimulate contemplation on genres beyond horror and inspire a new perspective on aesthetics and cultural works.

Carol J. Clover's book "Men, Women, and Chain Saws: Gender in the Modern Horror Film" delves into the analysis of gender roles in horror films, particularly focusing on slasher films, possession films, and rape revenge films. The author explores how these films represent fluidity and shifts in gender that were not seen in mainstream films until later decades, providing a thought-provoking examination of the gender dynamics within the horror genre. Clover's writing style is described as methodical, accessible, and engaging, offering a deep dive into the intersection of horror, gender, and audience identification.

'The Philosophy of Horror: Or, Paradoxes of the Heart' by Noel Carroll delves deep into the analysis of horror films and novels, exploring why people are drawn to the genre and what makes it appealing. Carroll provides a philosophical and psychological perspective on the dynamics of filmmaking and the techniques used to evoke fear in audiences. covers a wide range of material, referencing well-known horror films and novels to make the philosophical analysis accessible to readers. Despite being a dense read, it is considered a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the genre of horror on a deeper level.

The author, Noel Carroll, challenges different academic approaches to horror while teasing out his own philosophy on the subject. His book is recommended for horror enthusiasts, aspiring horror writers, and students looking to explore the genre further. Carroll's analysis not only provides a rational framework for a full examination of horror but also offers a comprehensive look at why people enjoy consuming horror, ultimately aiming to understand the paradoxical nature of the genre.

'The Monster Show: A Cultural History of Horror' by David J. Skal is a comprehensive exploration of the history and evolution of horror movies, delving into the political, social, and cultural contexts that shaped the genre. Skal meticulously details the significance of iconic horror films and figures, tracing the roots of horror from early silent films to the more modern, gruesome portrayals. The writing style is informative yet engaging, providing insights into the deeper meanings reflected in popular horror films throughout different eras.

'The Conspiracy Against the Human Race' by Thomas Ligotti delves into the horror that consciousness brings about, presenting a pessimistic view on life, mankind, and the universe. Ligotti explores the idea that human existence is a curse, with consciousness being a detriment rather than a benefit. Through references to various philosophers, mystics, and neuroscientists, Ligotti argues that life is inherently meaningless and existence is a painful cul de sac. serves as a philosophical exploration of the horror that comes from being aware of our mortality and the futility of seeking meaning in an indifferent universe.

'Danse Macabre' by Stephen King is a personal study and review of the horror genre from 1950-1980. King delves into various mediums of horror including print, radio, film, and comics, exploring their influence on popular culture in the United States. The book is described as a retrospective of horror in fiction and film, with King's analysis providing insights into how horror films mirror real-world fears of the eras they were made in. King's conversational tone and engaging writing style make the book an enjoyable and informative read for fans of horror in any form.

King's 'Danse Macabre' is a mix of autobiography, critique, and analysis of horror books, movies, and TV shows, offering a wide arc of the horror genre from the Cold War era to the Seventies and Eighties. The book is noted for its informal and engaging approach, providing thoughtful and illuminating observations on the horror genre. King's recommendations of can't-miss movies and novels, as well as his insights into horror archetypes, make 'Danse Macabre' a valuable resource for readers looking to expand their knowledge of classic horror.

Cyclonopedia: Complicity with Anonymous Materials is a dense and complex narrative that delves into the concept of oil as a sentient, malevolent force that influences global politics, history, and human endeavors. The book combines elements of Lovecraftian horror, folklore, philosophy, and geopolitics to create a unique and thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between oil, storytelling, and human existence. The writing style is described as a word salad smothered in academic language, presenting uncanny revelations and complex theories in a postmodern, philosophical narrative.

'The Frighteners' by Peter Laws explores the fascination with ghoulish and macabre subjects, delving into topics such as fear, death, serial killers, ghosts, and zombies. Through personal exploration and anecdotes, the author discusses how our interest in violence, death, and the paranormal can be a way to understand and master fear and the darker side of human nature. Laws, a Christian minister and horror fan, navigates the clash between faith and fright within Christianity, aiming to resolve the love for the macabre with a love of God. is a mix of research studies and casual conversations, providing insights into why we are drawn to things that scare us and how they help us confront our fears.

"Horror: 100 Best Books" is a comprehensive guide to horror literature, providing insights and reviews from various horror authors on classic and noteworthy horror books. takes readers on a journey through the history and evolution of horror, covering a wide range of books from early horror stories to more contemporary works. Each book in the list is chosen and reviewed by a different person, adding a unique and passionate perspective to the entries.

'Writing in the Dark' by Tim Waggoner is a comprehensive guide to writing horror fiction that is both insightful and entertaining. Each chapter delves into different aspects of horror writing, from dissecting what makes good horror to providing practical exercises for eager writers. The book features input from accomplished horror authors, offering valuable advice for writers of all levels of experience. Waggoner's writing style is accessible and engaging, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the genre.