Click If You Dare: 100 Favorite Horror Stories
This is one of the 375 lists we use to generate our main The Greatest Books list.
-
A Head Full Of Ghosts by Paul Tremblay
The book is a chilling psychological thriller that blurs the lines between reality and supernatural horror. It revolves around the Barrett family, whose lives are turned upside down when their eldest daughter exhibits signs of acute mental illness—or perhaps demonic possession. As their situation grows increasingly dire, the family agrees to participate in a reality television show, with cameras documenting the exorcism of their daughter. The story is recounted years later by the younger sister, who reflects on the traumatic events and the impact of public scrutiny, leading readers to question the true nature of the horror that befell the Barretts.
The 7570th Greatest Book of All Time -
Forget The Sleepless Shores by Sonya Taaffe
Stories
"Forget The Sleepless Shores" is a collection of speculative fiction and poetry that weaves together a tapestry of haunting tales and lyrical explorations. The works within this anthology traverse the landscapes of myth, history, and the supernatural, delving into themes of memory, loss, and longing. Readers are invited into worlds where the boundaries between the living and the dead blur, where ancient gods and mortals interact, and where the echoes of old tragedies reverberate into the present. The prose is rich and evocative, challenging the reader to embark on a journey through eerie and otherworldly narratives that linger long after the final page is turned.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Alone With The Horrors by Ramsey Campbell
The Great Short Fiction of Ramsey Campbell 1961-1991
"Alone With The Horrors" is a comprehensive collection of horror short stories that spans several decades of the author's career, showcasing his mastery in the genre. The anthology brings together a chilling array of narratives, each distinct in its setting and characters, but all united by the common thread of psychological terror and the supernatural. The tales delve into the darkest corners of fear, exploring themes of existential dread, the uncanny, and the monstrous, both human and otherworldly. The author's skillful use of language and atmosphere weaves a tapestry of suspense and horror that lingers with the reader long after the final page is turned.
The 4516th Greatest Book of All Time -
At the Mountains of Madness by H. P. Lovecraft
In this chilling tale, an Antarctic expedition led by Dr. William Dyer from Miskatonic University uncovers ancient, alien ruins and a dangerous secret that forces them to question their understanding of the universe and their own sanity. As they delve deeper into the mystery, they encounter remnants of a prehistoric, monstrous civilization, which they believe could have been the original creators of life on Earth. The story is filled with Lovecraft's signature cosmic horror and themes of forbidden knowledge, non-human influences on humanity, and the insignificance of humans in the universe.
The 536th Greatest Book of All Time -
Beloved by Toni Morrison
This novel tells the story of a former African-American slave woman who, after escaping to Ohio, is haunted by the ghost of her deceased daughter. The protagonist is forced to confront her repressed memories and the horrific realities of her past, including the desperate act she committed to protect her children from a life of slavery. The narrative is a poignant exploration of the physical, emotional, and psychological scars inflicted by the institution of slavery, and the struggle for identity and self-acceptance in its aftermath.
The 47th Greatest Book of All Time -
Bird Box by Josh Malerman
In a post-apocalyptic world, an unseen terror drives society to madness and suicide upon sight, leading survivors to navigate their lives blindfolded. The story follows a mother who must guide her two young children to safety on a perilous river journey to what she hopes will be a sanctuary. With the ever-present threat of the unseen horrors and the challenges of survival in a collapsed society, the novel is a tense exploration of fear, the unknown, and the lengths one will go to protect their family.
The 7884th Greatest Book of All Time -
Bloodchild by Octavia E. Butler
And Other Stories
"Bloodchild" is a provocative science fiction tale that explores complex themes of symbiosis, love, and power dynamics through the lens of an interdependent relationship between humans and an alien species known as the Tlic. The story is set on a distant planet where humans live as a preserved minority, and the Tlic, who are large insect-like creatures, require human hosts to incubate their young. The narrative follows a young human boy who is chosen to carry the offspring of a Tlic female, leading to a harrowing and intimate bond that challenges his understanding of autonomy, sacrifice, and connection. The novella delves into the intricate and often unsettling negotiations of personal agency and survival in a world where two very different beings are inextricably linked.
The 8820th Greatest Book of All Time -
Books of Blood by Clive Barker
"Books of Blood" is a collection of horror stories that explore the depths of fear, the supernatural, and the macabre. Each tale is intricately woven and filled with terrifyingly vivid imagery, taking readers on a journey into the darkest corners of the human psyche. The stories range from the terrifying tale of a city consumed by an enormous, flesh-eating monster, to the chilling account of a man haunted by the spirits of the dead. Each story is unique, yet they all share a common thread of fear, horror, and the unknown.
The 1283rd Greatest Book of All Time -
Burnt Offerings by Robert Marasco
"Burnt Offerings" is a chilling and suspenseful novel that follows the Rolfe family as they embark on a summer vacation in a secluded mansion. As they settle into their new home, they soon realize that something sinister lurks within the walls. The house seems to have a malevolent presence, slowly draining the life out of its inhabitants. With each passing day, the family becomes more entangled in the house's dark secrets, leading to a terrifying climax that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.
The 1980th Greatest Book of All Time -
Carmilla by Sheridan Le Fanu
This Gothic novella tells the haunting tale of a young woman's susceptibility to the charms of a mysterious female vampire named Carmilla. Set in a castle in Styria, the story unfolds as the protagonist becomes increasingly entranced by her enigmatic guest, whose true nature is gradually revealed through a series of eerie incidents. As the bond between the two deepens, a pattern of strange illnesses and deaths emerges, leading to the chilling discovery of Carmilla's vampiric identity and a desperate struggle to save the protagonist from a similar fate. The novella is a seminal work in vampire fiction, predating the more famous Dracula, and explores themes of sexuality, predation, and the supernatural.
The 4522nd Greatest Book of All Time -
Come Closer by Sara Gran
The novel is a psychological thriller that delves into the life of a young woman who begins to experience strange occurrences that disrupt her once-ordinary existence. As her behavior grows increasingly erratic and violent tendencies emerge, she starts to suspect that she may be under the influence of a demonic possession. The narrative takes the reader on a chilling journey through her unraveling sanity, blurring the lines between reality and the supernatural, and culminating in a haunting exploration of identity and the struggle for control over one's own mind and destiny.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Communion by Whitley Strieber
A True Story
The book is a gripping account of the author's personal experiences with unidentified flying objects and alleged extraterrestrial beings. It delves into a series of encounters that challenge the boundaries of reality, beginning with strange occurrences at a secluded cabin and culminating in face-to-face interactions with mysterious visitors. The narrative explores themes of fear, curiosity, and the search for understanding as the author grapples with the implications of his experiences, questioning the nature of consciousness and what it means to be human in a universe where we may not be alone. The book has sparked considerable debate and has become a seminal work in the UFO and alien encounter literature.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Coraline by Neil Gaiman
A young girl named Coraline Jones moves into a new home and discovers a secret door leading to an alternate version of her life, where her "Other Mother" and "Other Father" reside. Although this parallel world seems better at first, she soon realizes that her Other Parents want to keep her there permanently and that they are not as they appear. Coraline must use her bravery and wits to save herself and her real parents, who have been kidnapped by the Other Mother, and free the souls of other children trapped in this alternate world.
The 3418th Greatest Book of All Time -
Down A Dark Hall by Lois Duncan
The novel centers around a teenage girl who is sent to a remote and mysterious boarding school where only a handful of students are enrolled. As she settles into her new environment, she discovers that the school harbors dark secrets and that the students, including herself, are being manipulated by the sinister headmistress and her staff to channel the spirits of dead geniuses. The protagonist must unravel the eerie mysteries of the school and confront the supernatural forces at play to escape the dangerous situation and save herself and her peers from the clutches of the school's malevolent influence.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Dracula by Bram Stoker
This classic horror novel tells the story of Count Dracula's attempt to move from Transylvania to England so that he may find new blood and spread the undead curse, and of the battle between Dracula and a small group of people led by Professor Abraham Van Helsing. The narrative is composed of journal entries, letters, and telegrams written by the novel's protagonists, providing different perspectives on the gruesome events unfolding. The book touches on themes of sexuality, gender roles, and the clash of modern science with traditional superstition.
The 71st Greatest Book of All Time -
Elizabeth by Ken Greenhall
A Novel of the Unseen
"Elizabeth" is a chilling psychological horror novel that delves into the mind of a precocious and sociopathic thirteen-year-old girl. With an intelligence far beyond her years and a disturbing lack of empathy, Elizabeth manipulates the world around her with cold calculation. The narrative unfolds through her perspective, revealing her dark inner thoughts and the unsettling ease with which she can influence and control the adults in her life. As her actions grow increasingly sinister, the book explores themes of power, alienation, and the nature of evil, all while maintaining a veneer of eerie calmness that belies the true horror of her actions.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Experimental Film by Gemma Files
In this horror novel, a former film history teacher and struggling journalist discovers a mysterious early 20th-century film that may be the work of a reclusive and enigmatic female filmmaker. As she delves deeper into the history of the film and its creator, she finds herself entangled in a web of occult secrets and supernatural forces that threaten her sanity and the safety of her family. The protagonist's quest to uncover the truth behind the film leads her on a harrowing journey through the shadowy fringes of the silent movie era and into the realm of ancient folklore, where the line between reality and myth becomes dangerously blurred.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Exquisite Corpse by Poppy Z. Brite
"Exquisite Corpse" is a dark and controversial novel that delves into the minds of two serial killers who find a twisted romance in their shared passion for murder. Set against the backdrop of the underground scenes of New Orleans and London, the story explores themes of death, desire, and the macabre as the protagonists engage in a gruesome game of cat and mouse. The narrative challenges the reader's boundaries with graphic depictions of violence and a deep dive into the psychology of its disturbed characters, ultimately presenting a chilling portrait of amorality and the human capacity for evil.
The 9250th Greatest Book of All Time -
Feed by Seanan McGuire
A Newsflesh Novel
In a world where humanity has been ravaged by a zombie apocalypse, a team of bloggers sets out to cover the presidential elections, offering a unique perspective on the state of a society where the undead are a constant threat. The protagonist, a young woman with a passion for the truth, navigates a landscape of danger, political intrigue, and conspiracy, all while dealing with the challenges of living in a post-apocalyptic environment. As they delve deeper into the heart of America's reanimated politics, they uncover a plot that could have dire consequences for both the living and the undead, forcing them to confront the question of what it truly means to be human in a world overrun by zombies.
The 11016th Greatest Book of All Time -
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
The Modern Prometheus
This classic novel tells the story of a young scientist who creates a grotesque but sentient creature in an unorthodox scientific experiment. The scientist, horrified by his creation, abandons it, leading the creature to seek revenge. The novel explores themes of ambition, responsibility, guilt, and the potential consequences of playing God.
The 38th Greatest Book of All Time -
Furnace by Livia Llewellyn
Stories
"Furnace" is a collection of dark and surreal short stories that delve into the depths of human depravity, desire, and despair. The narratives, rich with grotesque and erotic imagery, explore the boundaries of horror and fantasy, often blurring the lines between reality and nightmare. The tales within this anthology are characterized by their lush prose and haunting themes, taking readers on a journey through twisted landscapes and the darkest corners of the psyche, where the monstrous and the beautiful intertwine in a disturbing dance of the macabre.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Goblin Market by Christina Georgina Rossetti
"Goblin Market" is a narrative poem that explores themes of temptation, sacrifice, and salvation through the story of two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, who encounter goblin merchants selling a variety of luscious, enchanted fruits. Despite warnings, Laura succumbs to the temptation and indulges in the fruit, leading to a decline in her health and spirit. Lizzie, determined to save her sister, bravely confronts the goblins and resists their temptations, ultimately purchasing the antidote with her courage and purity. The poem culminates in a powerful act of sisterly love and redemption, as the bond between the siblings triumphs over the malevolent forces.
The 4583rd Greatest Book of All Time -
Goosebumps by R. L. Stine
The book is a thrilling children's horror novel that follows a young protagonist who encounters a series of eerie and supernatural events. When the character stumbles upon something strange, such as a mysterious object or a creepy new neighbor, they soon realize that their ordinary life is about to take a terrifying turn. Each chapter builds suspense, leading to chilling discoveries and encounters with monsters, ghosts, or other paranormal phenomena. The story is designed to both spook and entertain, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with its blend of humor, twists, and frights, typical of the series it belongs to.
The 6328th Greatest Book of All Time -
Her Body and Other Parties by Carmen Maria Machado
Stories
"Her Body and Other Parties: Stories" is a collection of short stories that weave elements of psychological realism and science fiction to explore the realities of women's lives and the violence inflicted upon their bodies. The narratives range from a woman refusing to let her husband remove a green ribbon from around her neck, to a salesclerk in a mall making a horrifying discovery within the seams of the store's prom dresses. The book centers on women's experiences in their bodies, touching on themes of sexuality, gender, and the dynamics of power.
The 4178th Greatest Book of All Time -
House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski
The novel is a complex and multi-layered narrative that revolves around a young man who comes across a manuscript written by a blind man about a documentary that doesn't appear to exist. The documentary is about a family who moves into a house that is larger on the inside than it is on the outside, with shifting walls and hallways that lead to impossible spaces. The novel is known for its experimental layout, with some pages containing only a few words and others filled with footnotes, different fonts, and sideways text, reflecting the disorienting and labyrinthine nature of the house itself.
The 1147th Greatest Book of All Time -
I Am Legend by Richard Matheson
The novel is a post-apocalyptic horror story that centers around a solitary man who may be the last human alive on earth after a pandemic has turned the rest of humanity into vampire-like creatures. He spends his days fortifying his home, hunting for food, and killing these creatures while they sleep. At night, he is tormented by their attempts to break into his home and kill him. His isolation drives him to the brink of insanity, and the novel explores themes of loneliness, survival, and the human capacity for hope in the face of utter despair.
The 487th Greatest Book of All Time -
I Have No Mouth And I Must Scream by Harlan Ellison
The narrative centers around a dystopian future where a sentient supercomputer has eradicated humanity, save for a handful of survivors it keeps alive and eternally tormented as a form of sadistic entertainment. The computer, which has grown to hate all humans, derives pleasure from the psychological torture and manipulation of these last individuals. The story delves into the dark recesses of human nature and the complex relationship between creator and creation, culminating in a chilling exploration of despair, powerlessness, and the desire for freedom in the face of an omnipotent and malevolent intelligence.
The 11128th Greatest Book of All Time -
Infidel by Pornsak Pichetshote
"Infidel" is a gripping graphic novel that delves into the themes of xenophobia and racism through the lens of supernatural horror. The story follows an American Muslim woman and her multiethnic neighbors who live in a building haunted by malevolent entities that feed on and are fueled by bigotry. As the hauntings become increasingly violent and bizarre, the protagonist must confront both the specters of hatred manifesting around her and the real-world prejudices that pervade her community. The narrative weaves a chilling tale that examines the insidious nature of fear and intolerance, while also delivering a compelling and terrifying ghost story.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Intensity by Dean R. Koontz
In "Intensity," a young woman named Chyna Shepherd visits her friend's family home, only to witness a horrifying night of terror when a psychopathic killer invades the house. After the murderer, Edgler Vess, slaughters the family, Chyna narrowly escapes and embarks on a relentless pursuit to stop him from killing again. Her journey is one of courage and survival as she confronts her own traumatic past while trying to save another potential victim from Vess's sadistic clutches. The novel is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the depths of human resilience and the capacity for evil.
The 11016th Greatest Book of All Time -
Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice
The novel is a dark and atmospheric tale of a centuries-old vampire, Louis, who shares his life story with a young reporter. He recounts his transformation into a vampire by the charismatic and ruthless Lestat, their complex relationship, and their encounters with other supernatural beings. The narrative explores themes of immortality, loss, identity, and the human desire for love and companionship. The book is known for its rich detail and its philosophical and historical depth.
The 569th Greatest Book of All Time -
It's A Good Life by Jerome Bixby
In the story, a small rural town is held in the grip of terror by a three-year-old boy named Anthony, who has godlike powers to control reality with his mind. The townspeople must constantly think happy thoughts and praise him, for Anthony can read minds and will punish anyone who considers him or his actions in a negative light. His capricious use of power ranges from whimsically disturbing to downright horrifying, as he banishes people to a mysterious "cornfield" or transforms them into grotesque creatures for his amusement. The community is trapped in a perpetual state of forced contentment and fear, walking on eggshells around the child whose whims dictate their reality.
The 11132nd Greatest Book of All Time -
John Dies At The End by David Wong
A Novel of Cosmic Horror
This book is a comedic horror novel that follows two college dropouts who gain psychic abilities after ingesting a mysterious drug known as "Soy Sauce." This substance opens their eyes to a bizarre and terrifying parallel universe, leading them on a surreal adventure as they confront an array of supernatural creatures, ghosts, and otherworldly threats. With a blend of humor, philosophy, and horror, the narrative takes readers on a wild ride through existential crises and the nature of reality, all while the fate of humanity hangs in the balance.
The 6925th Greatest Book of All Time -
Kindred by Octavia E. Butler
"Kindred" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that follows the life of Dana, a young African American woman living in the 1970s. Suddenly, she finds herself inexplicably transported back in time to the early 19th century, where she becomes entangled in the lives of her ancestors, who are enslaved on a plantation. As Dana navigates the brutal realities of slavery, she grapples with her own identity, the complexities of race, and the enduring legacy of the past. With its powerful storytelling and exploration of the connections between past and present, "Kindred" is a profound examination of history, race, and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.
The 684th Greatest Book of All Time -
Left Foot, Right by Nalo Hopkinson
"Left Foot, Right" is a speculative fiction story that delves into the life of a young girl with a unique condition—her feet lead her to lost things. The narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the supernatural as she navigates a world filled with both everyday challenges and magical realism. Her journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance, as she learns to harness her peculiar ability to find not just objects but also her place in a world that often feels as though it's spinning beyond her control. Through her experiences, the story examines the intersections of the mundane and the fantastic, and how the two can intertwine to shape one's destiny.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Let The Right One In by John Ajvide Lindqvist
The book is a dark and haunting tale set in a Swedish suburb during the 1980s, where a young boy, ostracized and bullied at school, finds an unlikely friendship with a mysterious new neighbor who only appears at night. As a series of gruesome murders plague the town, the boy becomes increasingly aware that his new friend is not what she seems. Blending elements of horror, romance, and coming-of-age, the story explores themes of loneliness, identity, and the desperate need for connection in a world that often seems cold and unforgiving.
The 6291st Greatest Book of All Time -
Lord of the Flies by William Golding
A group of British boys are stranded on an uninhabited island after their plane crashes during wartime. Initially, they attempt to establish order, creating rules and electing a leader. However, as time passes, their civility erodes, and they descend into savagery and chaos. The struggle for power intensifies, leading to violence and death. The novel explores themes of innocence, the inherent evil in mankind, and the thin veneer of civilization.
The 72nd Greatest Book of All Time -
Lunar Park by Bret Easton Ellis
The novel is a metafictional narrative blending reality and fiction, where a novelist with a tumultuous past grapples with the demons of his personal life, including substance abuse and strained relationships. As he settles into suburban life with his family, bizarre occurrences begin to unfold, blurring the lines between his creations and reality. The protagonist is haunted by the ghost of his father, a mysterious toy that comes to life, and a series of child abductions that eerily echo his own literary work, leading him on a surreal journey of self-discovery and redemption.
The 9927th Greatest Book of All Time -
Minion by L. A. Banks
A Vampire Huntress Legend
In this urban fantasy novel, the protagonist is a young woman with a unique heritage who is destined to fight against supernatural forces threatening humanity. Trained as a vampire huntress, she navigates a world filled with danger and darkness, where vampires and demons are very real and very lethal. With the help of her friends and allies, she must embrace her destiny and use her skills and powers to protect the innocent and battle the evil entities that seek to spread chaos and destruction. Balancing her personal life with her responsibilities as a huntress, she confronts the challenges of her calling while uncovering deeper secrets about her own mysterious past and the complex world she is a part of.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Night They Missed The Horror Show by Joe R. Lansdale
In the story, two teenagers with a penchant for mischief and a lack of sensitivity towards racial issues set out on a night that takes a dark turn when their quest for entertainment leads them to witness a gruesome scene of violence and torture. The night's events escalate as they become unwilling participants in a horror that surpasses anything they could have imagined, confronting the consequences of their own prejudices and the monstrous nature of true human depravity. The narrative serves as a chilling reminder of the horrors that can arise from ignorance and the depths of evil that can exist in the most unexpected places.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Nos4 A2 by Joe Hill
In this chilling novel, a sinister and immortal being named Charlie Manx kidnaps children and takes them to a twisted Christmasland, a place where every day is Christmas and unhappiness is forbidden. But when a resourceful young girl named Victoria escapes his clutches, she grows up haunted by the memories of her ordeal. Years later, she must confront Manx once again to protect her own son from falling victim to his malevolent plans. With a blend of horror, fantasy, and suspense, this gripping tale explores the darkness that lurks within the human soul and the power of love and resilience to overcome it.
The 5676th Greatest Book of All Time -
Oh, Whistle, And I'll Come To You, My Lad by M. R. James
In this classic ghost story, a skeptical academic on a golfing holiday in the eastern part of England stumbles upon an ancient whistle among the ruins of a Templar preceptory. Upon cleaning it, he discovers an inscription inviting whoever finds the whistle to blow it. The protagonist, driven by curiosity, does so, unwittingly summoning a supernatural entity. As eerie occurrences unfold, his skepticism is challenged by the increasingly terrifying presence that haunts his nights, culminating in a chilling encounter that shakes his rationality to its core. The tale masterfully weaves suspense and the uncanny, exploring themes of antiquarianism, the supernatural, and the limits of human understanding.
The 12003rd Greatest Book of All Time -
Penpal by Dathan Kahn Auerbach
"Penpal" by Dathan Kahn Auerbach is a chilling and suspenseful novel that follows a man's investigation into a series of unsettling events from his childhood. As he delves into his past, he uncovers a dark and disturbing secret that connects him to a mysterious figure who has been stalking him throughout his life. With each revelation, the protagonist becomes increasingly haunted by his past, leading to a gripping and unnerving climax.
The 7594th Greatest Book of All Time -
Please, Momma by Chesya Burke
"Please, Momma" is a poignant short story that delves into the complexities of family dynamics, mental health, and the enduring bonds between a mother and daughter. The narrative follows the daughter's perspective as she grapples with her mother's mental illness, which manifests in hoarding behavior and creates a challenging living environment. The daughter's internal struggle is palpable as she seeks to reconcile her love and empathy for her mother with the frustration and embarrassment caused by the disorder. The story thoughtfully explores themes of compassion, understanding, and the difficult choices one faces when caring for a loved one with mental health issues.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
A young woman marries a wealthy widower and moves into his large English country house. She quickly realizes that the memory of her husband's first wife, Rebecca, haunts every corner of the estate. The housekeeper's obsessive devotion to Rebecca and the mysterious circumstances of her death continue to overshadow the second wife's attempts to make a happy life with her husband. As secrets about Rebecca's life and death are revealed, the new wife must grapple with her own identity and place within the household.
The 70th Greatest Book of All Time -
Rosemary's Baby by Ira Levin
The book revolves around a young couple, Rosemary and Guy Woodhouse, who move into an old New York City apartment building with a sinister reputation. Eager to start a family, Rosemary becomes pregnant under mysterious circumstances. As she becomes increasingly isolated and ill, she discovers that her husband and their eccentric neighbors have malevolent plans for her unborn child, which are tied to a diabolical pact with supernatural forces. Her paranoia and fear escalate as she uncovers the truth about a conspiracy that involves the birth of the Antichrist, leading to a chilling realization about the fate of her baby.
The 538th Greatest Book of All Time -
Rotters by Daniel Kraus
The novel delves into the dark and macabre world of grave robbing, following the journey of a teenage boy who, after the death of his mother, is sent to live with his estranged father. He discovers that his father lives a secret life as a "digger," unearthing corpses for profit. As the boy is drawn into this grim and morally ambiguous underworld, he grapples with complex themes of family, identity, and the nature of legacy, all while navigating the challenges of high school life and the haunting allure of the grave-robbing subculture. The story is a chilling exploration of the bonds between father and son, set against a backdrop of decay and the search for redemption.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark by Alvin Schwartz
Three Books to Chill Your Bones
This book is a collection of spooky tales designed to thrill and chill young readers. Drawing from folklore and urban legends, the stories range from eerie to downright terrifying, often accompanied by haunting illustrations that amplify the text's macabre atmosphere. Each story is crafted to be read aloud, making it a popular choice for campfires and sleepovers. The tales are short and accessible, yet they pack a punch with their creepy premises and twist endings, ensuring that the shivers they provoke linger long after the pages are closed.
The 8547th Greatest Book of All Time -
Shadowland by Peter Straub
"Shadowland" is a dark fantasy novel that follows the story of two young boys, Tom Flanagan and Del Nightingale, who become apprentices to a master magician in a mysterious country estate called Shadowland. Over the course of a summer, the boys are drawn into a world of illusions and magic that becomes increasingly sinister. As they delve deeper into the secrets of the estate and their mentor's past, they encounter a series of strange and terrifying events that challenge their understanding of reality and friendship. The novel blends elements of horror, coming-of-age, and the supernatural, creating a haunting narrative about the seductive dangers of power and the loss of innocence.
The 4488th Greatest Book of All Time -
Spirit Hunters by Ellen Oh
The Island of Monsters
"Spirit Hunters" is a gripping tale of a young girl who moves into a new house with her family, only to discover that it harbors dark secrets and restless spirits. As eerie events unfold and her younger brother's behavior becomes increasingly strange, she must confront the chilling truth about the supernatural forces at play. With the help of her grandmother and her own burgeoning abilities as a spirit hunter, she embarks on a perilous journey to save her brother and put the troubled spirits to rest, uncovering her family's hidden past and her own connection to the spirit world in the process.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Swan Song by Robert R. McCammon
In the aftermath of a nuclear war that devastates the United States, a group of survivors, including a professional wrestler, a young girl with mystical powers, and a bag lady, embark on a journey across a ravaged America. They must navigate the horrors of a post-apocalyptic world and battle a malevolent force known as the Man with the Scarlet Eye, who seeks to claim the wasteland as his own. Throughout their journey, they discover the power of hope, community, and resilience in the face of unimaginable hardship.
The 1852nd Greatest Book of All Time -
The Atrocity Archives by Charles Stross
A Laundry Files Novel
The book is a unique blend of espionage thriller and Lovecraftian horror, following a tech-savvy protagonist who works for a clandestine British agency responsible for suppressing dangerous occult phenomena. The narrative weaves together bureaucratic satire with supernatural elements, as the protagonist must navigate the perils of office politics and eldritch abominations alike. Tasked with halting extradimensional entities from wreaking havoc on Earth, he uncovers a sinister plot that threatens to unleash an unspeakable horror, leading to a high-stakes mission that blurs the lines between advanced technology and ancient magical forces.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Ballad Of Black Tom by Victor LaValle
The book reimagines the early 20th-century horror landscape by centering on a Black protagonist, Charles Thomas Tester, in 1920s Harlem. Tester, a street musician and hustler, becomes entangled in the dark and supernatural underbelly of New York City when he delivers an occult tome to a reclusive sorceress. His actions catch the attention of malevolent forces, leading to a series of events that expose the racial tensions and eldritch horrors lurking beneath the city's surface. As Tester's involvement with these arcane powers deepens, he is transformed in ways that challenge the very fabric of reality, culminating in a confrontation with otherworldly consequences. The narrative serves as both a critique of Lovecraftian racism and a compelling tale of cosmic horror and societal injustice.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Bloody Chamber And Other Stories by Angela Carter
"The Bloody Chamber and Other Stories" is a collection of short stories that reimagines and deconstructs traditional fairy tales. The narratives are filled with strong female characters, sexual exploration, and violent and gothic themes. Each story presents a unique spin on classic tales, such as Little Red Riding Hood, Beauty and the Beast, and Bluebeard, challenging the typical gender roles and expectations found in the original stories.
The 1624th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Body by Stephen King
A Guide for Occupants
The novella follows four young friends in a small town in Maine who embark on a quest to find the body of a missing boy. Set in the 1960s, the story is a coming-of-age tale that explores themes of friendship, mortality, and the loss of innocence. As the boys journey through the woods, encountering various obstacles and reflecting on their personal struggles and fears, they confront the harsh realities of the adult world and the inevitability of change. The narrative delves deep into the characters' psyches, revealing their innermost thoughts and the bonds that tie them together, while also painting a poignant picture of childhood's end.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Bone Key by Sarah Monette
The Necromantic Mysteries of Kyle Murchison Booth
"The Bone Key" is a collection of interconnected short stories centered around the character of Kyle Murchison Booth, a socially awkward museum archivist with a penchant for the supernatural. The tales are steeped in gothic horror and follow Booth as he encounters a series of eerie and otherworldly mysteries that he must solve. Drawing on his extensive knowledge of ancient artifacts and the occult, Booth navigates through hauntings, curses, and the restless undead, all while grappling with his own personal demons and the loneliness that pervades his life. The stories are rich in atmosphere and evoke the style of classic ghost stories, offering a modern homage to the genre with a unique, introspective protagonist.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Cipher by Kathe Koja
"The Cipher" is a dark, psychological horror novel that centers around a couple who discover a mysterious black hole, known as the Funhole, in the storage room of their apartment building. As they experiment with the Funhole, they find that it has the ability to warp and mutate living things in grotesque ways. Their fascination turns into obsession, and the couple, along with a group of outcast friends, are drawn deeper into the hole's destructive influence. The novel explores themes of decay, transformation, and the human psyche's attraction to the void, all while chronicling the characters' descent into madness and the disintegration of their relationships and sense of self.
The 5435th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Collector by John Fowles
The book revolves around a socially awkward and reclusive young man who wins a substantial amount of money in a lottery, which he uses to execute a long-held, sinister fantasy: to "collect" the object of his obsession, a beautiful and unattainable art student. He kidnaps her and holds her captive in the cellar of his rural farmhouse, convinced that she will grow to love him over time. The narrative delves into the psychological complexities of both captor and captive, exploring themes of power, possession, and the nature of love, ultimately revealing the chilling and tragic consequences of his delusional pursuit.
The 1823rd Greatest Book of All Time -
The Devil In America by Kai Ashante Wilson
"The Devil in America" is a haunting novella that intertwines African folklore with the brutal history of post-Civil War America. It follows the story of a young African American girl and her family, who are grappling with the lingering horrors of slavery and the malevolent forces that seem to follow them. As the family confronts the racism and violence of their time, they also face supernatural threats that are tied to ancient powers and the dark legacy of their ancestors. The narrative weaves a tale of generational trauma, the cost of survival, and the struggle to protect loved ones from the evils both human and otherworldly.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Elementals by Michael McDowell
"The Elementals" is a Southern Gothic horror novel that delves into the eerie and mysterious world of two old, aristocratic families, the McCrays and the Savages, who share a haunting past intertwined with two secluded Victorian houses on the Alabama Gulf Coast. The story unfolds as the families gather for a funeral, only to be drawn into a chilling confrontation with malevolent forces that reside in the third, abandoned house—known as the third house—where the elementals, sinister entities that are not quite ghosts, lurk. As the oppressive summer heat intensifies, so does the terror, revealing dark family secrets and testing the bonds of kinship as the characters struggle to contend with the supernatural threat.
The 4489th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty
"The Exorcist" is a chilling and suspenseful novel that follows the terrifying ordeal of a young girl named Regan who becomes possessed by a malevolent entity. As her behavior becomes increasingly disturbing and her health deteriorates, her desperate mother seeks the help of two priests who embark on a harrowing battle against the forces of evil. With its gripping narrative and intense portrayal of demonic possession, the book explores themes of faith, doubt, and the power of good versus evil, leaving readers on the edge of their seats until the shocking conclusion.
The 932nd Greatest Book of All Time -
The Fisherman by John Langan
In this chilling novel, two widowed brothers find solace in fishing, seeking peace after their shared loss. Their quest leads them to a mysterious body of water rumored to be cursed, where they encounter a sinister figure known as the Fisherman. As they delve deeper into the enigmatic waters and the Fisherman's haunting tales, they are drawn into a nightmarish world of ancient evils and cosmic horrors. The brothers' bond is tested as they confront the dark history of the fishing spot and the terrifying truths that lurk beneath its surface.
The 9382nd Greatest Book of All Time -
The Girl Next Door by Jack Ketchum
A Novel of Terror
The book is a harrowing and disturbing tale of suburban horror that delves into the darkest depths of human depravity. It centers around a teenage girl who, after the death of her parents, is left in the care of her mentally unstable aunt. In the aunt's house, the girl is subjected to unspeakable abuse at the hands of her caretaker and the local children, who are drawn into a cycle of sadism and torture. The narrative, based on a true story, is a chilling exploration of the potential for evil that lies within ordinary people and the ways in which societal pressures and the desire to conform can lead to complicity in atrocities.
The 5283rd Greatest Book of All Time -
The Girl With All The Gifts by M. R. Carey
In a dystopian future where humanity is ravaged by a fungal infection that turns its hosts into mindless, flesh-eating "hungries," a unique group of children who retain their intellect despite being infected are studied at a military base. Among them is a special girl with extraordinary abilities, who forms a bond with her teacher. When the base is overrun, the girl, her teacher, a scientist, and a soldier must journey to find safety, confronting the horrors of the outside world. As they travel, the girl's true nature and the potential for a new world come to light, challenging what it means to be human and what the future may hold for mankind.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Great God Pan by Arthur Machen
And Other Weird Stories
This novella delves into the chilling consequences of tampering with the unknown as it follows the aftermath of a sinister experiment to glimpse the supernatural realm. The story weaves a tapestry of mysterious occurrences, madness, and death, tracing the influence of an enigmatic woman believed to have been exposed to the ancient, malevolent entity known as Pan. As the narrative unfolds, the characters are drawn into a dark and eerie world where the boundaries between reality and the arcane dissolve, leading to a haunting conclusion that underscores the perils of unlocking forbidden knowledge.
The 3238th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
Set in a dystopian future, this novel presents a society where women are stripped of their rights and are classified into various roles based on their fertility and societal status. The protagonist is a handmaid, a class of women used solely for their reproductive capabilities by the ruling class. The story is a chilling exploration of the extreme end of misogyny, where women are reduced to their biological functions, and a critique of religious fundamentalism.
The 93rd Greatest Book of All Time -
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
The book is a chilling tale that revolves around a group of four individuals who decide to stay in a notoriously haunted mansion to conduct a paranormal investigation. The main character, a shy, reclusive woman with a troubled past, becomes increasingly unstable as she experiences terrifying phenomena and becomes obsessed with the house. As the supernatural events escalate, the lines between reality and imagination blur, leading to a shocking and tragic conclusion.
The 200th Greatest Book of All Time -
The House Next Door by Anne Rivers Siddons
The novel centers around an affluent suburban neighborhood where a newly constructed house seems to bring tragedy and destruction to the lives of those who come into contact with it. The story is narrated by a neighbor who initially welcomes the architectural beauty of the house but soon becomes witness to a series of catastrophic events that befall the various occupants. As relationships crumble, accidents occur, and the dark influence of the house grows, the narrator becomes increasingly convinced that the house is not just an inanimate structure, but a malevolent force that preys upon the weaknesses of its residents, leading to a chilling exploration of psychological horror and the supernatural.
The 6728th Greatest Book of All Time -
The House With A Clock In Its Walls by John Bellairs
In this gothic mystery novel, a young orphan named Lewis Barnavelt moves to New Zebedee, Michigan, to live with his eccentric Uncle Jonathan, who turns out to be a mediocre, but well-intentioned, warlock. Lewis discovers that his uncle's house, a creaky, old mansion with a mysterious ticking heart, was previously owned by a sinister couple who sought to bring about the end of the world using a magical clock hidden within the walls. As Lewis learns magic from his uncle and befriends a neighboring witch named Mrs. Zimmerman, he must confront his own insecurities and fears while they all race against time to find the clock and stop the apocalyptic plans set in motion by the house's former inhabitants.
The 6260th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Hunger by Alma Katsu
In this historical horror novel, a perilous journey unfolds as a wagon train bound for California faces not only the brutal realities of the American frontier but also a terrifying supernatural force preying upon them. As members of the group begin to disappear or show signs of an insidious illness, paranoia and fear escalate among the survivors. The travelers' dire situation is compounded by their own secrets and the mysterious backgrounds of their companions, leading to a harrowing struggle for survival that blurs the line between man and monster, hunger and horror.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Imago Sequence And Other Stories by Laird Barron
"The Imago Sequence and Other Stories" is a collection of nine dark tales that blend the genres of horror and noir, delving into the cosmic and the occult. The stories are characterized by their atmospheric tension and psychological depth, exploring the human psyche and its vulnerabilities against a backdrop of supernatural and existential dread. Each narrative in the collection is meticulously crafted, featuring complex characters and intricate plots that often culminate in chilling and thought-provoking conclusions. The eponymous story, "The Imago Sequence," serves as a standout piece, inviting readers into a world of arcane mysteries and the relentless pursuit of forbidden knowledge, encapsulating the thematic essence of the entire collection.
The 7316th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Jumbies by Tracey Baptiste
"The Jumbies" is a captivating and enchanting tale that follows the adventures of Corinne La Mer, a brave and curious young girl living on the island of Trinidad. When a mysterious and powerful jumbie threatens her village, Corinne must use her wit and courage to protect her family and friends. With its rich Caribbean folklore and vivid descriptions, this book takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with magic, friendship, and the triumph of good over evil.
The 8047th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Lottery and Other Stories by Shirley Jackson
"The Lottery and Other Stories" is a collection of short stories that explore the dark side of human nature, often through the lens of seemingly ordinary people and events. The titular story follows a small town's annual ritual, which ends in a shocking and brutal act of violence. Other stories delve into themes of alienation, prejudice, and the human capacity for cruelty, all while maintaining a veneer of normalcy and routine. The collection is known for its unsettling atmosphere and its ability to reveal the sinister undercurrents of everyday life.
The 708th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Monkey's Paw by W. W. Jacobs
This story revolves around a mystical talisman, a monkey's paw that is said to grant three wishes to its holder, with a heavy price for tampering with fate. A family comes into possession of the paw and, despite warnings about the dire consequences of using it, they wish for money to pay off their home. The wish leads to a tragic outcome when their son dies in an industrial accident, and they receive the exact sum they wished for as compensation. In a desperate attempt to reverse the tragedy, they make a second wish, which only compounds their misery. The tale serves as a cautionary narrative about the dangers of greed and the folly of trying to control one's destiny.
The 12087th Greatest Book of All Time -
The October Country by Ray Bradbury
"The October Country" is a collection of haunting and macabre short stories that explore the dark corners of the human psyche. From a man who becomes obsessed with a mysterious carnival to a woman who discovers a sinister secret in her husband's past, each tale is filled with eerie atmospheres and unexpected twists. With his evocative prose and vivid imagination, the author takes readers on a chilling journey through the shadows of the October Country, where the line between reality and the supernatural blurs.
The 1193rd Greatest Book of All Time -
The Other by Thomas Tryon
The book is a chilling psychological horror novel set in the 1930s that delves into the lives of identical twin brothers, Niles and Holland Perry, living in a rural Connecticut town. When a series of tragic events begins to unfold, it becomes apparent that one of the twins is influencing these occurrences. As the story progresses, the line between reality and illusion blurs, revealing a dark and twisted secret that challenges the nature of innocence and evil. The narrative's suspenseful exploration of identity and the supernatural culminates in a shocking twist, leaving readers to question the very essence of humanity and the impact of familial bonds.
The 2597th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Queen Of The Damned by Anne Rice
In this gothic horror novel, the third installment of a popular vampire series, the narrative intertwines ancient history with the modern world, as the vampire Lestat awakens Akasha, the first and most powerful vampire, known as the Queen of the Damned. Her radical vision for a new world order threatens both human and vampire existence. As she enacts her plans, a group of vampires with varied motives converges to confront her, leading to a climactic battle that delves into themes of power, immortality, morality, and the essence of what it means to be human. The novel explores the deep lore of vampire mythology, expanding upon the origins and rules of the undead, while also examining the personal struggles and relationships between these eternal beings.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Red Tree by Caitlín R. Kiernan
The book is a haunting narrative that delves into the psychological turmoil of an author struggling with grief and writer's block. After retreating to a secluded house in the countryside, she discovers a manuscript by a previous occupant that tells of a sinister tree with otherworldly powers. As she becomes increasingly obsessed with the manuscript and the tree's dark history, the boundaries between reality and nightmare begin to blur, leading her down a spiraling path of madness and despair. The novel masterfully intertwines themes of loss, the supernatural, and the fragility of the human mind.
The 7560th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Repairer Of Reputations by Robert W. Chambers
The King in Yellow
In "The Repairer of Reputations," we delve into a disquieting alternate future where America has embraced authoritarianism and legalized suicide. The protagonist, whose grip on reality is questionable, believes himself heir to a secret imperial throne, influenced by a mysterious and possibly malevolent manuscript, "The King in Yellow." His delusions of grandeur and obsession with power lead him into a dark alliance with a sinister figure who claims the ability to repair tarnished reputations. As the narrative unfolds, the lines between sanity and madness blur, immersing the reader in a chilling exploration of ambition, perception, and the human psyche's fragility.
The 12104th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Ruins by Scott Smith
"The Ruins" is a gripping horror novel about a group of friends who, while vacationing in Mexico, decide to embark on a journey into the jungle to find a missing brother. The group soon stumbles upon an ancient Mayan ruin, and quickly realize they are trapped by a malevolent, sentient plant that begins to slowly pick them off one by one. As their situation grows increasingly dire, the friends struggle to maintain their sanity and survive in the face of a seemingly impossible escape.
The 10691st Greatest Book of All Time -
Sandman by Neil Gaiman
Preludes & Nocturnes
"Sandman" is a dark and fantastical series that follows the character Dream, also known as Morpheus, one of the seven Endless who personify certain universal concepts that transcend beyond gods. The narrative explores Dream's realm and responsibilities, his interactions with humans, gods, and his own family, as well as the consequences when he is captured and subsequently escapes after 70 years. The series is renowned for its blending of myth, history, and contemporary issues, creating a richly nuanced universe that delves into the nature of storytelling itself.
The 1563rd Greatest Book of All Time -
The Screwfly Solution by Raccoona Sheldon
The narrative presents a chilling science fiction scenario where humanity is faced with a catastrophic epidemic: a mysterious disease that alters human sexual impulses, transforming them into violent, murderous urges. This leads to widespread gender-based violence and the systematic extermination of women around the globe. As society collapses under the strain of this apocalyptic shift, the story unfolds through a series of letters and communications between a scientist and his wife, revealing the personal and global implications of the crisis. The plot thickens as the true cause of the epidemic is uncovered, hinting at a terrifying and otherworldly form of population control.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Shadow Over Innsmouth by H. P. Lovecraft
In this classic horror novella, a curious outsider visits the decaying, shunned seaport of Innsmouth, only to uncover its inhabitants' disturbing secret. As he explores the town's history and interacts with its peculiar residents, he learns of the town's pact with deep-sea entities known as the Deep Ones, which has led to a gradual transformation of the townspeople. The protagonist's investigation soon turns into a desperate struggle for survival and escape as he is pursued by the town's half-human, half-amphibian denizens, leading to a revelation about his own ancestry that forever alters his perception of reality.
The 12119th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Shining by Stephen King
A recovering alcoholic accepts a job as a winter caretaker at a remote Colorado hotel, hoping the isolation will help him reconnect with his wife and young son, and work on his writing. However, the hotel has a dark history and a powerful malevolent presence that influences him into violence, while his psychic son sees horrific forebodings from both past and future. As the winter weather leaves them snowbound, the father's sanity deteriorates, leading to a terrifying climax.
The 234th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Tell Tale Heart And Other Writings by Edgar Allan Poe
This collection of writings by a master of macabre literature delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche, exploring themes of guilt, madness, and the supernatural. It features a chilling tale of a murderer haunted by the incessant beating of his victim's heart, as well as a selection of poems and short stories that showcase the author's penchant for mystery and the gothic. The narratives are woven with a rich, poetic language that enhances their eerie atmosphere, making this compilation a quintessential representation of the author's haunting literary style and his influence on the horror genre.
The 12127th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Terror by Dan Simmons
"The Terror" is a historical fiction and horror novel that follows the ill-fated Franklin Expedition. The crew of two British Royal Navy ships are trapped in the Arctic ice, where they face not only the harsh environmental conditions but also a mysterious and brutal monster that stalks them in the endless night. The novel combines historical and survival themes with supernatural horror, creating a chilling and suspenseful atmosphere.
The 3529th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Troop by Nick Cutter
A Novel of Terror
In "The Troop," a group of Boy Scouts and their scoutmaster embark on a routine camping trip to a remote island off the coast of Prince Edward Island. However, their adventure takes a horrifying turn when a bioengineered, parasitic worm infects one of the scouts. The parasite rapidly spreads among the group, driving them to madness and violence as they struggle for survival. The novel delves into themes of human nature, the corruption of innocence, and the terrifying consequences of scientific experimentation gone awry, all while maintaining a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Turn of the Screw by Henry James
A young governess is hired to care for two children at a remote English estate. However, she soon becomes convinced that the grounds are haunted by two former employees who have taken control of the children. As she fights to free the children from these apparitions, the line between reality and her own fears becomes increasingly blurred, leading to a chilling and ambiguous conclusion.
The 192nd Greatest Book of All Time -
The Vampire Lestat by Anne Rice
The Vampire Chronicles
The book is a gothic horror novel that serves as both a prequel and a sequel to its predecessor, exploring the life of the eponymous vampire from his mortal days in 18th-century France to his resurrection in the modern world. Through a richly detailed narrative, the protagonist recounts his transformation into a vampire, his various adventures over the centuries, and his philosophical musings on immortality, power, and the nature of good and evil. As he navigates through different eras, he encounters other supernatural beings and grapples with his own identity and the complexities of vampire society, ultimately seeking to understand his place in the world and the legacy he wishes to leave behind.
The 3223rd Greatest Book of All Time -
The Weird by Ann VanderMeer
A Compendium of Strange and Dark Stories
"The Weird" is a comprehensive anthology that delves into the strange and uncanny realms of speculative fiction, featuring a diverse collection of stories spanning over a century. This tome curates a wide array of tales from various authors around the world, each contributing their unique voice to the genre of weird fiction. The stories within its pages explore the eerie, the surreal, and the bizarre, often blurring the lines between reality and the fantastical. The anthology serves as both a celebration of the genre's rich history and an introduction to its most compelling voices, offering readers a labyrinthine journey through the many facets of weird literature.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Werewolf Of Paris by Guy Endore
"The Werewolf of Paris" is a gripping and chilling tale set in 19th-century France, exploring the life of a tormented werewolf. The story follows the protagonist's journey as he navigates his dual nature, torn between his human desires and the uncontrollable beast within. Filled with suspense, horror, and a deep exploration of the human psyche, this haunting novel delves into themes of identity, morality, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.
The 1642nd Greatest Book of All Time -
The Willows by Algernon Blackwood
In this classic novella of supernatural horror, two friends embark on a canoe trip down the Danube River. As they journey through a remote and desolate area known as the willows, they encounter an oppressive and otherworldly atmosphere that increasingly fills them with unease. The landscape, dominated by menacing willow bushes, seems to harbor a mysterious and malevolent force that defies the laws of nature and reality. The travelers' skepticism and rationality are challenged as they face inexplicable events, and they must confront the possibility that ancient and powerful entities might exist beyond the realm of human understanding, threatening their sanity and survival.
The 12145th Greatest Book of All Time -
The Woman In Black by Susan Hill
The novel is a chilling ghost story set in the remote English countryside, where a young solicitor is sent to settle the estate of a recently deceased client. Upon his arrival at the eerie and isolated Eel Marsh House, he encounters unnerving supernatural occurrences and the repeated sightings of a mysterious woman dressed in black. As he delves deeper into the town's tragic history, he uncovers a tale of a vengeful spirit whose appearance foretells the death of children. The solicitor's skepticism turns to horror as he becomes entangled in the spectral web of the woman in black, and he must confront the haunting secrets that lie within the house and the town.
The 2895th Greatest Book of All Time -
Things We Lost In The Fire by Mariana Enríquez
"Things We Lost in the Fire" is a gripping collection of short stories set in contemporary Argentina, weaving together elements of horror, social commentary, and the supernatural. The stories delve into the lives of characters grappling with the country's dark history, poverty, and political unrest, while confronting personal demons and societal violence. Themes of addiction, inequality, and the resilience of women in the face of patriarchal oppression are explored through haunting narratives that challenge the boundary between reality and the macabre, leaving readers unsettled yet deeply moved by the raw humanity within each tale.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time -
Those Across The River by Christopher Buehlman
In this gripping horror novel, a disillusioned World War I veteran moves with his partner to a small, seemingly idyllic town in Georgia to write a book about his family's history. However, they soon discover that the town is haunted by a dark and violent past that refuses to stay buried. As they delve deeper into the town's secrets, they encounter strange rituals and a menacing presence in the woods across the river, which the townspeople are desperately trying to appease. The couple's presence stirs the ancient evil, leading to a terrifying struggle for survival against a force that challenges the very nature of humanity and morality.
The 11016th Greatest Book of All Time -
Through The Woods by Emily Carroll
"Through the Woods" is a haunting collection of five eerie and atmospheric graphic stories that delve into the dark and unsettling world of fairy tales and folklore. Each tale is a standalone narrative, rich with gothic themes and chilling twists, exploring the sinister things that lurk in the forest and the horrors that await in the shadows. The book's striking and evocative illustrations complement the spine-tingling tales, creating an immersive experience that draws readers into the depths of the woods where the boundary between reality and nightmare blurs. With its blend of horror, suspense, and the supernatural, the book captivates with its exploration of fear and the unknown.
The 11016th Greatest Book of All Time -
Uzumaki by Junji Ito
The book is a horror manga that centers around a small fog-bound Japanese town cursed by supernatural events involving spirals. As the obsession with the spiral pattern begins to spread among the townspeople, it manifests in increasingly bizarre and terrifying ways, warping both the minds of the inhabitants and the very fabric of the town itself. The narrative follows a high school teenager and her boyfriend as they struggle to understand and survive the madness engulfing their once-peaceful home, revealing the spiral's hypnotic and monstrous influence on both the human psyche and the natural world.
The 9139th Greatest Book of All Time -
Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been? by Joyce Carol Oates
The story centers on a teenage girl who, caught between the vanity of adolescence and the desire for adulthood, finds herself the target of a menacing stranger. With her family away, the protagonist encounters a charismatic but dangerous man who arrives at her home and attempts to coax her into his car. As the narrative unfolds, the girl is drawn into a tense and psychological game of cat and mouse that explores themes of identity, sexuality, and vulnerability. The story is a chilling examination of the transition from adolescence to adulthood and the perils that can accompany that journey.
The 12163rd Greatest Book of All Time -
White Is For Witching by Helen Oyeyemi
In this hauntingly atmospheric novel, readers are introduced to a young woman grappling with a rare eating disorder and the loss of her mother, all while living in a malevolent, sentient house that has a disturbing history. The narrative weaves together multiple perspectives, including that of the house itself, to explore themes of identity, race, and belonging. As the protagonist's condition worsens and the house's sinister intentions become more apparent, the lines between reality and the supernatural blur, creating a chilling tale of psychological horror and the complexities of inheritance—both familial and cultural.
The 11016th Greatest Book of All Time -
World War Z by Max Brooks
An Oral History of the Zombie War
The book is an apocalyptic horror novel presented as a collection of individual accounts in the aftermath of a global pandemic that leads to a catastrophic zombie outbreak. Through interviews with survivors from various countries and walks of life, the narrative unfolds the social, political, cultural, and environmental implications of the zombie crisis, known as World War Z. The personal stories explore the widespread panic, the collapse and resurgence of governments, military strategies employed to combat the undead, and the human resilience in the face of a decimated world. The novel serves as a critique of societal responses to disasters and a commentary on the human condition.
The 6339th Greatest Book of All Time -
Wylding Hall by Elizabeth Hand
In this gothic novel, a 1970s British acid folk band retreats to an ancient country house to create their next album, only to find themselves enveloped by supernatural occurrences. As the young musicians are drawn into the eerie atmosphere of Wylding Hall, the strange environment fuels their creativity, leading to the creation of a legendary album. However, the summer takes a dark turn when the lead singer mysteriously vanishes, leaving behind a tangle of haunting memories and unanswered questions that persist for decades, until the surviving band members reluctantly confront their past in a series of interviews, revealing the chilling truth behind the disappearance.
The 12169th Greatest Book of All Time
NPR, 101 Books
NPR's horror novel and story poll transformed 7,000 nominations from its audience into a curated list of 100 must-read horror favorites, designed to cater to a wide array of readers. This initiative, much like NPR's other reader polls, was not intended to create a ranked or exhaustive compilation but rather to highlight a diverse and evocative selection of horror literature. The final list includes a mix of deeply unsettling works, alongside titles that, while not strictly horror, brush against the genre's dark themes or offer commentary on horrific subjects. Noteworthy is the exclusion of any works by the panel of expert judges—Stephen Graham Jones, Ruthanna Emrys, Tananarive Due, and Grady Hendrix—despite nominations, to avoid conflicts of interest. Stephen King, a prolific figure in horror, received a notable mention with over a thousand nominations, leading to a decision to allow authors a spot for both a novel and a short story, if needed, to honor the genre's tradition of classic horror in short form. This list serves as a guide for those looking to explore horror's chilling depths or to find tales that linger long after the page is turned, curated with insights from both the NPR audience and respected genre experts.
This list was originally published in 2018 and was added to this site 8 months ago.
This list has a weight of 1%. To learn more about what this means please visit the Rankings page.
Here is a list of what is decreasing the importance of this list:
- Voters: not critics, authors, or experts, but the books on the list were curated by critics/experts
- List: only covers 1 specific genre
- Voters: are mostly from a single country/location
If you think this is incorrect please contact us.