Books Like...

Readers praise M.R. James for his mastery in crafting ghost stories that evoke fear and suspense. The stories are described as moody, inventive, and classically scary, appealing to lovers of creepy and sinister tales. The author's works are recommended for those seeking a spooky and safe read, with titles like "A Warning to the Curious" and "Oh, Whistle And I'll Come To You, My Lad" standing out as favorites. The stories often revolve around scholars encountering unusual texts or artifacts and slowly realizing they are in a ghost story, creating a sense of dread and tension.

M.R. James's writing style is commended for being sharply written, slyly composed, and scary as hell, with stories that are quiet, spooky, and filled with ominous tones. The author's ability to create a chilling atmosphere through his narratives, such as in "A Warning to the Curious," is highlighted as a key strength. Readers appreciate the historical backdrop and sense of dread in James's tales, making them both effective and inspirational for those interested in classic horror and folk horror elements.

'Oh, Whistle, and I'll Come to You, My Lad' by M.R. James is a classic Christmas ghost story that follows Professor Parkins, a young man on a golfing holiday, who discovers a mysterious whistle in some ruins. Upon blowing the whistle, he unleashes a horrifying event that leads to a chilling encounter with a dark shape. The story is written in a traditional ghost story manner, with a dark and foreboding atmosphere that builds up suspense throughout the narrative. The plot unfolds slowly and inexorably, keeping readers gripped until the end.

The writing style of M.R. James in this book is praised for its attention to detail, which brings the characters to life and creates a contemporary feel despite being published in 1904. The beginning and middle of the story are highlighted for their outstanding job in building suspense, while the ending is noted as leaving a bit to be desired by some readers, feeling somewhat stunted. Overall, the book is considered a gripping and relentless old-fashioned ghost story that relies on suspense rather than violence or gore to evoke a sense of eeriness.

'The Monkey's Paw' by W.W. Jacobs is a classic horror short story that revolves around the consequences of making wishes with a magical monkey's paw. The plot follows a family who uses the paw to make make three wishes, only to / to realize that each wish comes included with a terrible consequence, leading to a chilling and thought-provoking conclusion. The writing style of the book is described as spooky, short, and cozy, yet impactful, with a strong focus on grief as a major plot point.

The Beckoning Fair One by Oliver Onions is a ghost story that delves into themes of obsession, possession, and deteriorating mental health. The writing style is described as subtle, eerie, and surreal, drawing readers in with imagery flickering like candlelight in a darkened room. The protagonist, Oleron, becomes obsessed with a female ghost haunting the house he rents, gradually losing contact with the outside world and succumbing to a nameless horror that seems to take over his thoughts.

'Canon Alberic's Scrap-Book' by M.R. James is a collection of ghost stories that masterfully evoke dread and fear in the readers. The plot centers around various encounters with supernatural entities, haunted documents, and terrifying creatures that leave a lasting impact on those who experience them. M.R. James' writing style is described as detailed, visceral, and genuinely scary, with elements of historical horror and a focus on the eerie and unsettling.

"The Room in the Tower" by E.F. Benson is a classic and well-loved short story that revolves around a man experiencing recurring nightmares about a house, which eventually becomes a reality when he stays at a friend's place. The narrative captures the inexplicable horror of a nightmare and has a nightmarish vibe, reminiscent of stories by Lovecraft. The story is described as having a vampire element, with a build-up that creates a creepy atmosphere but might have a slightly disappointing climax.

E.F. Benson's writing style in "The Room in the Tower" is praised for its ability to convey the horror and suspense of a nightmare effectively. The story is said to be engaging, creepy, and captivating, leaving a lasting impact on readers. The author's skill in creating a sense of dread and mystery is highlighted, making this short story a memorable and chilling read.

"The Upper Berth" is a classic ghost story that revolves around two male protagonists who encounter a haunting on a ship. The narrative unfolds as they experience eerie occurrences linked to a ghost that appears only when the clock strikes. This ghost, tormented by past misdeeds, becomes a central figure in the story, ultimately leading the protagonists to inadvertently free it from its curse. The tale is marked by Crawford's ability to suggest horror rather than explicitly display it, creating a suspenseful atmosphere that keeps readers riveted until the chilling conclusion.

Crawford's writing style is characterized by its vivid imagery and engaging prose, drawing readers into the claustrophobic setting of the ship and the psychological tension that accompanies the supernatural elements. The story is noted for its perfect final line, which leaves a lasting impression. Readers have praised "The Upper Berth" for its ability to evoke fear and anxiety, making it a memorable piece of horror fiction that stands the test of time, even after multiple readings.

'Ghost Stories of an Antiquary' by M.R. James is a collection of spooky stories with a Gothic feel, often involving travelers encountering supernatural manifestations during their antiquarian research. The stories are set in atmospheric locations, such as old houses and country estates, and typically revolve around the discovery of old books or artefacts that attract unearthly beings. The writing style is described as subtle, leaving much to the reader's imagination, and the stories are known for their eerie and chilling nature.

'Green Tea' by J. Sheridan Le Fanu is a collection of gothic ghost stories that showcase the literary genius of the author. The book includes tales of supernatural entities haunting characters, such as a demonic monkey and mysterious apparitions, all set in a dark and eerie atmosphere. The writing style of the book is described as both classic and dated, yet still captivating, with elements that are unsettling and truly creepy, contributing to Le Fanu's reputation as a master of horror storytelling.

The narratives in 'Green Tea' delve into themes of hallucinogenic properties of the titular beverage, leading to eerie sightings and psychological disturbances for the characters. The stories explore the boundaries of traditional ghost stories, incorporating weird and ambiguous ideas that set Le Fanu apart from other writers of classic ghost tales. The book is praised for its ability to evoke a sense of unease and fascination with the supernatural, making it a compelling read for fans of the horror genre.