The Readers' Advisory Guide to Horror

November 15, 2012
Here is an excellent readers' advisory book for those unfamiliar with the horror genre as well as those who want to round out their collections. Spratford coauthored the first edition in 2004, and the genre has changed and expanded sufficiently to warrant this second edition. The most recent comparable title, "Hooked on Horror", came out in 2009, while "Fang-tastic Fiction", 2010, is more for readers of paranormal fiction than horror. Spratford provides a comprehensive overview of suggested authors in the key areas of ghosts, vampires, zombies, shapeshifters, monsters and ancient evil, witches and the occult, Satan and demonic possession, and comic horror, followed by more specific guidance. She also includes whole-collection readers' advisory with recommendations for titles and authors beyond the conventional definition of horror fiction. The book ends with a list of the best free and fee websites as well as marketing suggestions.VERDICT While the price is frightening for the length of the book, this slim volume is highly recommended for medium and large libraries.--J. Sara Paulk, Wythe-Grayson Reg. Lib., Independence, VA

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