October Genre Challenge: Spooky and Horror
I don't enjoy scary books, so I initially felt stumped by this month's theme for the 12 genres in 12 months reading challenge. However, I think I found a loophole: scary books written for children. I'm assuming these will be less intense than those for adults.
Recommended Reads
Here are a few books I've read that you might enjoy:
- Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
I read this classic Gothic novel earlier this year in for the Thrillers/Suspense category of this challenge and found it surprisingly enjoyable. - The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
I read this children's book as part of my Newbery award book project. It has an interesting premise: what might happen to a child who was raised in a cemetery? - Misery by Stephen King
This creepy book about an author and his biggest fan might be the only Stephen King novel I've ever read. ("Read" is probably too generous a description. I have a feeling that I skimmed or skipped the truly gruesome parts.)
What I Might Read
Here are the books that made my short list:
Possibility #1: Blind Date by R. L. Stine
Why this interests me: Blind Date was R. L. Stine's first book in this genre. It's aimed at young adults. I love that he wrote joke books before attempting his first horror book.
Recommended by: Attack of the Spooky Script (an interview with R. L. Stine)
Possibility #2: The Telltale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe
Why it interests me: I vaguely remember reading Poe's works in school, but I honestly don't remember the specific details. It would be fun to revisit one and see what I think as an adult, especially knowing there won't be a quiz at the end!
Recommended by: 45 seriously spooky (but not quite scary) books
Possibility #3: We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson
Why it interests me: The only piece I remember reading by Shirley Jackson is her famous short story "The Lottery." I'm curious to read this 1962 novel by her, especially since it's described as "excellent for those reluctant to read horror." Perfect!
Recommended by: Surefire YA Scares: 13 of the Best Teen Horror Books
I'll be reading one (or more) of these books this month.
For other book ideas, check out my Book Recommendations board on Pinterest. I'll be adding book lists throughout the year as I come across intriguing ones.
Next Month (November): Mystery. This is one of my favorite genres, so I should have lots of good recommendations for you!