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Thirteen: 13 Tales of Horror by 13 Masters of Horror
You don't really want to read this ...do you? The masters of horror are waiting to take you on a terrifying ride, and there are 13 stops.
Meet the new guy in town, very handsome, very sexy, and very deadly.
Dine on sweet and wonderfully inviting confections - they're good to the last breath.
Learn that some spells can never be broken...
Inside you'll find the works of 13 masters of horror. Let Christopher Pike, R.L. Stine and the rest of our macabre crew show you the beauty in your worst nightmares - and the terror in your most exquisite dreams....
CONTENTS
Introduction by T. Pines
Collect Call: The Black Walker: Part I by Christopher Pike
Lucinda • by Lael Littke
The Guiccioli Miniature • by Jay Bennett
Blood Kiss • by D. E. Athkins
A Little Taste of Death • by Patricia Windsor
The Doll • by Carol Ellis
House of Horrors • by J. B. Stamper
Where the Deer Are •by Caroline B. Cooney
The Spell • by R. L. Stine
Dedicated to the One I Love by Diane Hoh
Hacker • by Sinclair Smith
Deathflash • by A. Bates
The Boy Next Door •by Ellen Emerson White
Collect Call: The Black Walker: Part II • by Christopher Pike
343 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 19, 1991
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
October 31, 2019
Re-read alongside ‘Teenage Scream Podcast’ who covered each of the individual stories in mini-episodes leading up to Halloween.
I remember having this collection but couldn’t recall a single story from it, but listing along with them made for a fun revisit.
What I found most interesting was the collection included some authors that hadn’t written any Point Horror books, including Christopher Pike!
Always fun to have a dose of nostalgia and I’d highly recommend the podcast for those that read this range but in the 90’s.
I remember having this collection but couldn’t recall a single story from it, but listing along with them made for a fun revisit.
What I found most interesting was the collection included some authors that hadn’t written any Point Horror books, including Christopher Pike!
Always fun to have a dose of nostalgia and I’d highly recommend the podcast for those that read this range but in the 90’s.
June 11, 2018
Taking a journey down memory lane...
I remember reading this as a hapless, excessively wimpy 12-year old girl. And then not being able to sleep afterwards. It's fair to say that it's this book (and others like it) that shaped my future reading tastes, not to mention the books I write.
So I was very keen to revisit it, after twenty-odd years (yes it really has been that long) to see what I thought of it now. And I'm glad to report that I enjoyed it just as much as I ever did, but thankfully, wasn't nearly so scared this time around!
There are 13 tales in total (as the title suggests) with some, in my opinion, being far superior to others. Christopher Pike's 'Collect Call' gets the book off to a rollicking good start, with an eerie tape, a deadly accident, and a girl who has to make things right again, or face the terrifying messages of someone who *should* be dead but isn't.
There are other stand-out stories in there too. Dedicated to the One I Love, about a trio of friends who find out that their mutual boyfriend has been playing them for fools, has a very satisfying twist. Likewise, The Boy Next Door has a moment of genuine surprise at the end, which is always pleasing in a short story.
There were a few in there that were a bit predictable or dull, though. The Hacker was a nice concept, but blisteringly obvious from the start as to who the serial killer was. Likewise, The House of Horrors goes for the over-used trope of the waxworks / haunted funhouse setting and fails to do anything particularly interesting with it.
However, the good outweighs the bad - and I was amused to find that I'd read the whole book in one day - because I just couldn't put it down. A whole lot of fun, which I'll be saving for my kids when they're old enough to not be terrified by it!
I remember reading this as a hapless, excessively wimpy 12-year old girl. And then not being able to sleep afterwards. It's fair to say that it's this book (and others like it) that shaped my future reading tastes, not to mention the books I write.
So I was very keen to revisit it, after twenty-odd years (yes it really has been that long) to see what I thought of it now. And I'm glad to report that I enjoyed it just as much as I ever did, but thankfully, wasn't nearly so scared this time around!
There are 13 tales in total (as the title suggests) with some, in my opinion, being far superior to others. Christopher Pike's 'Collect Call' gets the book off to a rollicking good start, with an eerie tape, a deadly accident, and a girl who has to make things right again, or face the terrifying messages of someone who *should* be dead but isn't.
There are other stand-out stories in there too. Dedicated to the One I Love, about a trio of friends who find out that their mutual boyfriend has been playing them for fools, has a very satisfying twist. Likewise, The Boy Next Door has a moment of genuine surprise at the end, which is always pleasing in a short story.
There were a few in there that were a bit predictable or dull, though. The Hacker was a nice concept, but blisteringly obvious from the start as to who the serial killer was. Likewise, The House of Horrors goes for the over-used trope of the waxworks / haunted funhouse setting and fails to do anything particularly interesting with it.
However, the good outweighs the bad - and I was amused to find that I'd read the whole book in one day - because I just couldn't put it down. A whole lot of fun, which I'll be saving for my kids when they're old enough to not be terrified by it!
January 22, 2011
Let these horror masters take you and do their worst---with their best:
Collect Call Part I & Part II by Christoper Pike >> About two girls who drive home after a party, except they get into an accident and one of them dies. Then the remaining girl starts receiving messages on her answering machine from the dead girl. Pike's a wizard at chronicling the soft underbelly of the high school social scene. The first part is better, but the second is necessary to completely understand the story.
Lucinda by Lael Littke >> 16-year-old girl and her older brother return to their hometown to investigate the six-year-old death of his girlfriend. I really liked the original setting; it gives the whole story a remote, ghost town quality.
The Guiccioli Miniature by Jay Bennett >> Set in Venice, Italy, a young college student is approached by a poor painter to buy one of his copies of the Guiccioli miniature. This 8-paged story is not your typical horror fare; it kind of sticks out because of its more "intelligent" horror and open ending.
Blood Kiss by D.E. Athkins >> Elizabeth and her two girl friends fall for the new boy who everybody thinks is a vampire. The one story in this entire anthology that seems like it was written down to its audience. Hated it.
A Little Taste Of Death by Patricia Windsor >> A genuinely original idea, but imperfectly developed. Restates the obvious: Never take candy from a stranger.
The Doll by Carol Ellis >> After moving in to her family's new home, 16-year-old Abby finds a doll in the attic that tries to harm Abby's friends and family.
House Of Horrors by J.B. Stamper >> This falls into the fairly narrow subgenre of wax-museum horrors (either the wax coming alive or the living turning to wax -- I won't tell you which this is), but there are plenty of chills nonetheless. Readers will certainly be able to relate to Mark's claustrophobia.
Where The Deer Are by Caroline Cooney >> to school one day with her four friends, Tiffany has a premonition that Nature (which consists of the nearby deer, woods, and cliff known as Dead Kid Curve) has decided to claim one of them after 25 years. But who will it be? This story might be better if made into a short film.
The Spell by R.L. Stine >> A young girl's boyfriend gets interested in hypnotism and uses his new talent to get even with his friends who had teased him about it.
Dedicated To The One I Love by Diane Hoh >> One by one, three friends hear a radio dedication to them, made by their three-timing) ex-boyfriend Richie -- and one by one, each girl has a tragic accident. This one gets better as you read; there's a twist halfway through it.
Hacker by Sinclair Smith >> A young student becomes a serial killer's next victim when she starts receiving messages from him on her class computer. This one was rather disappointing because of how easy it is to guess the killer.
Deathflash by A. Bates >> Has a vague, eerie telling combined with the pseudo-scientific premise. Implausible ending.
The Boy Next Door by Ellen Emerson White >> A young girl working in an ice cream parlor (during winter, of all times) is robbed and threatened by one of her childhood friends. It's suspenseful and has an unexpected ending.
Book Details:
Title Thirteen: Thirteen Tales Of Horror By Thirteen Masters Of Horror
Author Christopher Pike, R.L. Stine, et. al.
Reviewed By Purplycookie
Collect Call Part I & Part II by Christoper Pike >> About two girls who drive home after a party, except they get into an accident and one of them dies. Then the remaining girl starts receiving messages on her answering machine from the dead girl. Pike's a wizard at chronicling the soft underbelly of the high school social scene. The first part is better, but the second is necessary to completely understand the story.
Lucinda by Lael Littke >> 16-year-old girl and her older brother return to their hometown to investigate the six-year-old death of his girlfriend. I really liked the original setting; it gives the whole story a remote, ghost town quality.
The Guiccioli Miniature by Jay Bennett >> Set in Venice, Italy, a young college student is approached by a poor painter to buy one of his copies of the Guiccioli miniature. This 8-paged story is not your typical horror fare; it kind of sticks out because of its more "intelligent" horror and open ending.
Blood Kiss by D.E. Athkins >> Elizabeth and her two girl friends fall for the new boy who everybody thinks is a vampire. The one story in this entire anthology that seems like it was written down to its audience. Hated it.
A Little Taste Of Death by Patricia Windsor >> A genuinely original idea, but imperfectly developed. Restates the obvious: Never take candy from a stranger.
The Doll by Carol Ellis >> After moving in to her family's new home, 16-year-old Abby finds a doll in the attic that tries to harm Abby's friends and family.
House Of Horrors by J.B. Stamper >> This falls into the fairly narrow subgenre of wax-museum horrors (either the wax coming alive or the living turning to wax -- I won't tell you which this is), but there are plenty of chills nonetheless. Readers will certainly be able to relate to Mark's claustrophobia.
Where The Deer Are by Caroline Cooney >> to school one day with her four friends, Tiffany has a premonition that Nature (which consists of the nearby deer, woods, and cliff known as Dead Kid Curve) has decided to claim one of them after 25 years. But who will it be? This story might be better if made into a short film.
The Spell by R.L. Stine >> A young girl's boyfriend gets interested in hypnotism and uses his new talent to get even with his friends who had teased him about it.
Dedicated To The One I Love by Diane Hoh >> One by one, three friends hear a radio dedication to them, made by their three-timing) ex-boyfriend Richie -- and one by one, each girl has a tragic accident. This one gets better as you read; there's a twist halfway through it.
Hacker by Sinclair Smith >> A young student becomes a serial killer's next victim when she starts receiving messages from him on her class computer. This one was rather disappointing because of how easy it is to guess the killer.
Deathflash by A. Bates >> Has a vague, eerie telling combined with the pseudo-scientific premise. Implausible ending.
The Boy Next Door by Ellen Emerson White >> A young girl working in an ice cream parlor (during winter, of all times) is robbed and threatened by one of her childhood friends. It's suspenseful and has an unexpected ending.
Book Details:
Title Thirteen: Thirteen Tales Of Horror By Thirteen Masters Of Horror
Author Christopher Pike, R.L. Stine, et. al.
Reviewed By Purplycookie
August 12, 2023
On paper, this is one of the coolest ideas ever - twelve of the Point Horror authors and one random person (I guess because Barbara Steiner was on vacation) telling spooky young-adult tales. Ironically, the random person (Ellen Emerson White)'s story is one of the best. Sinclair Smith's story was actually bone-chilling and R.L. Stine's was decent. Otherwise, this was pure garbage. If I were judging this solely on the aforementioned stories, this would probably be a 5/5. However, the other ten are completely abysmal, and for that reason, this gets a 2 from me. Nola Thacker (aka "D.E. Athkins" in this instance) is a terrible writer as far as I'm concerned and should have had no part in this. This was a total chore to read and I'm so glad it's over with.
October 3, 2015
I will never, ever forget this book. I was ten years old when my mom bought it for me at Barnes and Noble. Back then, the cover was different. Blood oozed from a partially lit brick wall. The cover of the paperback was sort of 3D, with the bricks and blood pressed from the inside of the cover so they had texture. When we were walking through the parking lot to the car, my mom said, "You should feel special. That book is for teenagers. See? It says "thirteen" right on the cover!" I knew she was full of crap, but for some reason, that memory is burned into my brain.
I *coveted* this book. I must have read it ten times, and brought it with me everywhere. Periodically, I'd check the internet to see if I could find it again and buy a new copy for my daughter, now that she's getting old enough to enjoy it. I'm so glad I found it and hope to be able to snag a version with the original cover. Seriously, I highly recommend this book.
I *coveted* this book. I must have read it ten times, and brought it with me everywhere. Periodically, I'd check the internet to see if I could find it again and buy a new copy for my daughter, now that she's getting old enough to enjoy it. I'm so glad I found it and hope to be able to snag a version with the original cover. Seriously, I highly recommend this book.
May 19, 2010
Not that I enjoyed the simple, not-so-complex writing but the read was comforting. It reminded me of better days when I first picked up books to escape reality rather than be reminded of it.
R.L. Stein, of course, being the only author I've read as a kid - his Goosebumps novellas were my introduction to the awesome world of reading - I was reintroduced to familiar names that filled the shelves of my female cousins. Namely, Christopher Pike whose Slumber Party cover always reminded me of a young chick lit gone awry.
It's a four-star read for any adolescent wanting to take a stab of horror at their reading level, or for the adult who wants to reminisce about their childhood. However, the book is a little dated - cassette tapes probably have the Myspace generation scratching their hands on that one ("Why not use a CD and leave it on loop rather than having to rewind the song?"...or better yet, "what's a CD?!"). The advent of electronic mail made me smile - how crazy were we in the year 1991?
R.L. Stein, of course, being the only author I've read as a kid - his Goosebumps novellas were my introduction to the awesome world of reading - I was reintroduced to familiar names that filled the shelves of my female cousins. Namely, Christopher Pike whose Slumber Party cover always reminded me of a young chick lit gone awry.
It's a four-star read for any adolescent wanting to take a stab of horror at their reading level, or for the adult who wants to reminisce about their childhood. However, the book is a little dated - cassette tapes probably have the Myspace generation scratching their hands on that one ("Why not use a CD and leave it on loop rather than having to rewind the song?"...or better yet, "what's a CD?!"). The advent of electronic mail made me smile - how crazy were we in the year 1991?
November 18, 2010
I was reading this book called Thirteen 13 Tales of Horror by 13 Masters of Horror. This book is written by R.L. Stine. This book had thirteen short stories that is good for reading at night and could really get you creep out at night. This book is also a book that will really make you think and hate the endings cause they do not end right. When you reach the end of these short stories it will make you wanna write a better ending to it and have the story keep going on. because as I said earlier you will not like the ending and you will want to keep writing so it will end better and also so that you could find out who killed who or who did what and even why they killed them-selfs. In one of the short stories Lucinda, this girl by the name of Lucinda and a couple of her other friends go camping the day before they walk across the stage to get their daplomia. So when they all figure out that she has gone missing they all start too go around and look for her. So when Lucinda told them that she was going for a swim in the lake they all went to the dock with herand saw her go into the lake because they really made her mad. They watched her as she swam away and then she went under the water and did not comem back up for awhile so they jumped in to try and find her, but no sucess. When i first read this book i was like okay maybe she has a little secret spot in the water that she hides in or maybe she got dragged under by some other sprit. So then after awhile all her friends saw her red graduation gown floot to the top and thought she was dead. Then after that I was thinking that no she cant be right. Later on in the story it gives you some signs that she is still alive cause she was talking to her old boyfriend. But after awhile you will start to make since when you get more indebth. With the rest of all the stories is pretty much all the same.
February 26, 2024
This short story collection was honestly quite awful. I was shocked at how terrible some of the stories in here actually are. The first 6-7 stories in this book are painful to get through. I'm not sure how this ended up being such a flop - many of these authors are regular contributors to full novels within the Point Horror series, and many of which I really enjoy.
Apparently, these authors aren't as good at writing short fiction, or perhaps they were on a tight deadline and this book was conjured up by Scholastic as a quick money-maker? - advertised as "13 Tales by 13 'Masters' of Horror" - highlighting names such as Christopher Pike and R.L. Stine.
Despite my overall disappointment with this, there were a few decent stories in the back half. There wasn't a single story in here that I loved, but the last 3 or 4 tales were much higher quality than the first half of the book - my favorites being:
Dedicated To the One I Love - Diane Hoh
The Spell - R.L. Stine
Deathflash - A. Bates
The Boy Next Door - Ellen Emerson White
Keep in mind those stories are all like 3/5⭐ for me... none of them fantastic, but those ones had better writing and more engaging ideas than many of the other stories in here, which had bafflingly-bad premises, writing, and were just plain awful.
Overall I give this collection a 2/5, and is one of my least favorite Point Horror books that I've read. I don't recommend it.
Apparently, these authors aren't as good at writing short fiction, or perhaps they were on a tight deadline and this book was conjured up by Scholastic as a quick money-maker? - advertised as "13 Tales by 13 'Masters' of Horror" - highlighting names such as Christopher Pike and R.L. Stine.
Despite my overall disappointment with this, there were a few decent stories in the back half. There wasn't a single story in here that I loved, but the last 3 or 4 tales were much higher quality than the first half of the book - my favorites being:
Dedicated To the One I Love - Diane Hoh
The Spell - R.L. Stine
Deathflash - A. Bates
The Boy Next Door - Ellen Emerson White
Keep in mind those stories are all like 3/5⭐ for me... none of them fantastic, but those ones had better writing and more engaging ideas than many of the other stories in here, which had bafflingly-bad premises, writing, and were just plain awful.
Overall I give this collection a 2/5, and is one of my least favorite Point Horror books that I've read. I don't recommend it.
April 29, 2019
These are a bunch of very quick bites from a baker's dozen of Point Horror authors in the 80's. One takes them like a draught of cool spring water - straight up bottoms up - since they're straightforward, satisfying, and very easy to read.
Most of them adhere to a tried-and-tested sequence. Just have a scary but uncomplicated tale to tell, put all these violent and gory details that are stark and brazen enough to horrify their target audience, maybe put a small twist in the end - et voila! - you have a nice little retro YA horror story. And no, I'm not being glib here. There really is something cozy and even nostalgic in unexacting thrillers like these.
The standouts here are: The Collect Call diptych by Pike which explores a necromantic love triangle where one diabolical party pulls all the strings; The Guiccioli Miniature by Bennett which is about a possibly cursed trinket bought from a doomed and desperate wretch; and The Boy Next Door by White, a tale about a budding psychopath's first potential thrill kill. The last one is by far the most interesting piece in the entire book.
I'm rating this 6.5/10 or 3 stars out of 5.
Most of them adhere to a tried-and-tested sequence. Just have a scary but uncomplicated tale to tell, put all these violent and gory details that are stark and brazen enough to horrify their target audience, maybe put a small twist in the end - et voila! - you have a nice little retro YA horror story. And no, I'm not being glib here. There really is something cozy and even nostalgic in unexacting thrillers like these.
The standouts here are: The Collect Call diptych by Pike which explores a necromantic love triangle where one diabolical party pulls all the strings; The Guiccioli Miniature by Bennett which is about a possibly cursed trinket bought from a doomed and desperate wretch; and The Boy Next Door by White, a tale about a budding psychopath's first potential thrill kill. The last one is by far the most interesting piece in the entire book.
I'm rating this 6.5/10 or 3 stars out of 5.
April 2, 2009
Thirteen is a novel comprised of 13 short stories foretelling tales of horror by 13 authors who are masters in this genre. Although there are many themes in this book, one that stands out the most is panicking in the worst case scenarios wont help you.
In these 13 short stories you will read about: calls from dead friends, the disappearance of a girl in a lake, stolen paintings, a new guy in town who actually is a vampire, candy both addicting and deadly, a killer doll, a haunted wax museum, frightening deer, hypnosis on your friends, songs dedicated to the one they love from the dead, a hacker who leaves death notes on the victim’s computer, deadly flashes, and neighbors that can be serial killers.
These short stories were very interesting, dark and twisted. My favorite scene in the book is from the short story “Collect Call” when Caroline receives a phone call from Janice (who is dead) and tells her she wont call Caroline back because the flesh from her arms have burned off in the car accident that she caused when she slapped her in the face. My favorite character was Bobby Walker because he’s a mysterious and charming horror film fan. The book was very descriptive especially when it came to the killing scenes and I was able to imagine what all the characters were going through in these intense situations. The characters most vivid to me were Janice, Caroline and Bobby because of their unique personalities given to them. The scene most vivid to me was when Janice went into the morgue. One large world issue this book relates to is how dangerous it is to drink and drive.
I would recommend this book to teenagers into dark and twisted tales of horror who would love to stay up reading it late at night just waiting to get a fright. Although I haven’t read any other horror novels similar to this one, I have seen plenty of horror films containing some elements this book has. So if anyone is a big horror movie fan than this is the book for you.
In these 13 short stories you will read about: calls from dead friends, the disappearance of a girl in a lake, stolen paintings, a new guy in town who actually is a vampire, candy both addicting and deadly, a killer doll, a haunted wax museum, frightening deer, hypnosis on your friends, songs dedicated to the one they love from the dead, a hacker who leaves death notes on the victim’s computer, deadly flashes, and neighbors that can be serial killers.
These short stories were very interesting, dark and twisted. My favorite scene in the book is from the short story “Collect Call” when Caroline receives a phone call from Janice (who is dead) and tells her she wont call Caroline back because the flesh from her arms have burned off in the car accident that she caused when she slapped her in the face. My favorite character was Bobby Walker because he’s a mysterious and charming horror film fan. The book was very descriptive especially when it came to the killing scenes and I was able to imagine what all the characters were going through in these intense situations. The characters most vivid to me were Janice, Caroline and Bobby because of their unique personalities given to them. The scene most vivid to me was when Janice went into the morgue. One large world issue this book relates to is how dangerous it is to drink and drive.
I would recommend this book to teenagers into dark and twisted tales of horror who would love to stay up reading it late at night just waiting to get a fright. Although I haven’t read any other horror novels similar to this one, I have seen plenty of horror films containing some elements this book has. So if anyone is a big horror movie fan than this is the book for you.
March 5, 2009
I had mixed feelings about this book of short stories. Some of them are pretty creepy, something fun to read when your home alone one night, but most just didn't cut it for me. Some were just weird and I'm still trying to figure out what's supposed to be scary about them, and others are laughably stupid. One actually tries to make you scared of deer--DEER. I mean I give the author credit for their effort and creativity, but seriously... I'd have to say that my favorite by far was "collect call" and its sequel "The Black Walker". Admittedly it was pretty predictable and some parts were stupid, but it was one of the creepier ones. I would also recommend "The Doll", "House of Horrors", and "The Spell". While I didn't find it very creepy I do give kudos to A. Bates for "Deathflash" which is probably one of the most creative stories I have ever read. Oh, and I think "Lucinda" was a pretty good one as well.
April 9, 2015
Reading this completely took me back to my teenage years! I devoured lots of Point Horror books when I was a teen. I have read this collection before, and revisiting it was just as entertaining! Great, short stories just perfect for dipping in and out of. I enjoyed the collection.
April 14, 2013
I read this book in middle or high school and I STILL think about these stories. Some of the best thrillers I have ever read!
September 11, 2014
Does this really deserve four stars? Probably not. But it was just so fun reading these as an adult.
November 4, 2018
2.5 stars.
Decent “horror” reads, though they were all quite predictable and none were terrifying.
Decent “horror” reads, though they were all quite predictable and none were terrifying.
March 12, 2021
Loved this book! Many of the stories are scarier than I remember the point horror series being! Amazing
dnf-bc-i-choose-happiness
December 27, 2022DNF at 50% because I just couldn’t get through any more of the stories 🥲
January 25, 2016
Will keep updating this as I read other short stories and give my overall thoughts on this collection.
Collect Call 1 by Christopher Pike
A bit bizarre because the events just happen without much explanation. The writing is pretty good as the maian character's thought seem more believable and leads to me smirking some of the writing due to how offbeat it is sometimes. There are some creepy scenes as well and the story keeps me reading as I want to know what's going on. A good start to this collection and I hope part 2 explains everything.
Lucinda by Lael Littke
So so. I feel like the story was a bit drab as not much is going on and is the seemingly supernatural story. There's some suspense though that does disconcert me if I see myself in the setting. Speaking of the setting, it's pretty unique that I enjoy it as it has some haunting atmosphere with tints of sadness. Overall, story wasn't bad but could have been better.
Guicciolli Minuature by Jay Bennett
The short story with the shortest amount of pages. Slightly suspenseful so story isn't bore and it all boils down to twist. I don't mind this story as I find it okay but it's not something I reread as this story just didn't provide enough substance.
Blood Kiss by D.E. Athkins
The plot for this just feels kiddish and it's more lighthearted due to its humorous nature. Didn't like this one because of immature plot but the writing is quite funny sometimes, though.
A Little Taste of Death by Patricia Windsor
Story couldn't settle with me because it's really weird, as I feel there's no telling and there's seem to be some theme behind the weirdness. However, the story have some scary scenes enough that makes story slightly decent. Just wish it was developed more.
The Doll by Carol Ellis
Plot's dull as it's mostly a supernatural object hurting people. The dream sequences are pointless and shouldn't be written as it slows story a bit. I still think the story's okay because there are some suspense moments here and there.
House of Horrors by J.B. Stamper
Creepy setting, moments where I held my breath, and something unknown for readers to figure out. Yeah, this is pretty decent. Would reread again.
Where the Deer Are by Caroline B Cooney
Interesting premise with decent suspense with writing that shows feeling. The story's spoiled by unexplained detail and the fact this is an environmental story. Could have been longer so the story flows well.
The Spell by R.L. Stine
Mostly suspense story but forgettable plot. Still, it kept me on edge although the story's a little boring but it's still alright. It also has some chilling message regarding friendship as it's shown how worse it gets when mistreating your friends.
Dedicated to the One I Love by Diane Hoh
Suspenseful, intriguing, and a great twist as the story goes on. This is pretty good short story.
Hacker by Sinclair Smith
Plot's average as it's mostly a girl trying to foil a serial killer's plan. It does keep me entertained as the story does provide some creepy moments.
Deathflash by A.Bates
Creepy story that chills to my spine as I read. This story could have benefit more if it could explain more but I enjoyed this for its frightening storytelling and some original concept.
The Boy Next Door by Ellen Emerson White
The writing was certainly humorous that it kept me reading more. In addition, it can be pretty suspenseful but I felt the story was a bit dragging sometimes. Amount of suspense, some lighthearted writing, and a good twist at the end does make the story decent but its pace is somewhat slow.
Collect Call part 2 by Christopher Pike
More action packed than suspense but it's very entertaining. A good ending for "Collect Call."
This whole book? It's average. There are few stories I thought were really good and scary but most of them were meh. Recurring problems for the meh stories are that they have unimpressive plots, slow pace, or lack of tension or suspense from these stories. It's not worth it to read the short stories I prefer but if you're into horror short story anthologies in general, then I could recommend this or for younger readers who want read horror.
Collect Call 1 by Christopher Pike
A bit bizarre because the events just happen without much explanation. The writing is pretty good as the maian character's thought seem more believable and leads to me smirking some of the writing due to how offbeat it is sometimes. There are some creepy scenes as well and the story keeps me reading as I want to know what's going on. A good start to this collection and I hope part 2 explains everything.
Lucinda by Lael Littke
So so. I feel like the story was a bit drab as not much is going on and is the seemingly supernatural story. There's some suspense though that does disconcert me if I see myself in the setting. Speaking of the setting, it's pretty unique that I enjoy it as it has some haunting atmosphere with tints of sadness. Overall, story wasn't bad but could have been better.
Guicciolli Minuature by Jay Bennett
The short story with the shortest amount of pages. Slightly suspenseful so story isn't bore and it all boils down to twist. I don't mind this story as I find it okay but it's not something I reread as this story just didn't provide enough substance.
Blood Kiss by D.E. Athkins
The plot for this just feels kiddish and it's more lighthearted due to its humorous nature. Didn't like this one because of immature plot but the writing is quite funny sometimes, though.
A Little Taste of Death by Patricia Windsor
Story couldn't settle with me because it's really weird, as I feel there's no telling and there's seem to be some theme behind the weirdness. However, the story have some scary scenes enough that makes story slightly decent. Just wish it was developed more.
The Doll by Carol Ellis
Plot's dull as it's mostly a supernatural object hurting people. The dream sequences are pointless and shouldn't be written as it slows story a bit. I still think the story's okay because there are some suspense moments here and there.
House of Horrors by J.B. Stamper
Creepy setting, moments where I held my breath, and something unknown for readers to figure out. Yeah, this is pretty decent. Would reread again.
Where the Deer Are by Caroline B Cooney
Interesting premise with decent suspense with writing that shows feeling. The story's spoiled by unexplained detail and the fact this is an environmental story. Could have been longer so the story flows well.
The Spell by R.L. Stine
Mostly suspense story but forgettable plot. Still, it kept me on edge although the story's a little boring but it's still alright. It also has some chilling message regarding friendship as it's shown how worse it gets when mistreating your friends.
Dedicated to the One I Love by Diane Hoh
Suspenseful, intriguing, and a great twist as the story goes on. This is pretty good short story.
Hacker by Sinclair Smith
Plot's average as it's mostly a girl trying to foil a serial killer's plan. It does keep me entertained as the story does provide some creepy moments.
Deathflash by A.Bates
Creepy story that chills to my spine as I read. This story could have benefit more if it could explain more but I enjoyed this for its frightening storytelling and some original concept.
The Boy Next Door by Ellen Emerson White
The writing was certainly humorous that it kept me reading more. In addition, it can be pretty suspenseful but I felt the story was a bit dragging sometimes. Amount of suspense, some lighthearted writing, and a good twist at the end does make the story decent but its pace is somewhat slow.
Collect Call part 2 by Christopher Pike
More action packed than suspense but it's very entertaining. A good ending for "Collect Call."
This whole book? It's average. There are few stories I thought were really good and scary but most of them were meh. Recurring problems for the meh stories are that they have unimpressive plots, slow pace, or lack of tension or suspense from these stories. It's not worth it to read the short stories I prefer but if you're into horror short story anthologies in general, then I could recommend this or for younger readers who want read horror.
October 22, 2016
This is an interesting collection of teen horror stories; it feels a little bit dated (teens listen to cassette tapes and view home computers as novelties) but it's still very readable. Some of the stories are better than others. Some are subtle and understated, while others involve unnatural elements right from the beginning. Some build slowly, keeping the readers guessing until the very end. There is a mix of happy and sad stories, and a mix of the supernatural and the realistic.
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed some of the stories by authors I'd never read before, and I was also disappointed by offerings of such big-name writers as R. L. Stine and Carolyn B. Cooney. Cooney's was my least favorite in the anthology: silly premise, empty characters, too much heavy-handed didacticism. I don't want to tell you about my favorite because I don't want to deprive anyone of the pleasure of enjoying it fresh.
The stories range from about 2 stars to about 4. I'm giving it four stars instead of three because I found the work to be compelling; when I wasn't reading it, I was thinking about it, and that's something.
Full disclosure: I skipped one of the stories.
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed some of the stories by authors I'd never read before, and I was also disappointed by offerings of such big-name writers as R. L. Stine and Carolyn B. Cooney. Cooney's was my least favorite in the anthology: silly premise, empty characters, too much heavy-handed didacticism. I don't want to tell you about my favorite because I don't want to deprive anyone of the pleasure of enjoying it fresh.
The stories range from about 2 stars to about 4. I'm giving it four stars instead of three because I found the work to be compelling; when I wasn't reading it, I was thinking about it, and that's something.
Full disclosure: I skipped one of the stories.
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January 9, 2015I have had, lodged in my memory (for years!) this story I read around the 8th or 9th grade. I knew it came from a horror anthology, which I later lost, and I have never forgotten the story's satisfying twist ending. I wanted to revisit it, but I couldn't remember the author of the story, nor any identifying information about the anthology except (librarians, groan here) it had a black cover with red writing.
I recently thought of this story again, and I now am a librarian, so I decided to put my reference skills to use and actually try to find it. I am DELIGHTED to report that I did, and this is it.
When I read this book, the cover looked like this. The story I had in mind is "The Boy Next Door" by Ellen Emerson White, and I loved it. I don't remember the R.L. Stine story, nor the Diane Hoh story (although I loved their series, Fear Street and Nightmare Hall, respectively). I remember the Christopher Pike story being somewhat scary. I cannot speak to how any of these stories would hold up after 20 years, and I am seriously considering buying it off Amazon for 1 penny plus shipping right now.
I recently thought of this story again, and I now am a librarian, so I decided to put my reference skills to use and actually try to find it. I am DELIGHTED to report that I did, and this is it.
When I read this book, the cover looked like this. The story I had in mind is "The Boy Next Door" by Ellen Emerson White, and I loved it. I don't remember the R.L. Stine story, nor the Diane Hoh story (although I loved their series, Fear Street and Nightmare Hall, respectively). I remember the Christopher Pike story being somewhat scary. I cannot speak to how any of these stories would hold up after 20 years, and I am seriously considering buying it off Amazon for 1 penny plus shipping right now.
January 7, 2015
A collection of scary stories, with varying quality. One which left a memorable impression considered deer with wide black eyes, reminiscent, to me, of alien greys. It also drew a comparison between the rustle of branches on bare trees during the winter with the rasp of a sore throat -- particularly effective to this reader, since the fall is often when I come down with a cold. The atmosphere the author created was strange and fairly original.
The other story with aftertaste concerned a shop, I think ice cream, staffed by two girls... I enjoyed the characters and their banter, as I recall, but not much else. I believe they ended up being vampires, or something of the sort.
The other story with aftertaste concerned a shop, I think ice cream, staffed by two girls... I enjoyed the characters and their banter, as I recall, but not much else. I believe they ended up being vampires, or something of the sort.
October 23, 2016
i'll never, ever forget this book. I think I was really too old for it, but along with the potted plant story, I loved the Pike story so much I cried that the main character, Bobby, was not real, I'm not too sure why I wanted him to be real so badly; he's ten times worse than the standard Point Horror Boy. He'd make most girls run a mile. The girl who goes to watch the film with him that she so clearly states she doesn't like has two legs, both of which work, and she could quite easily say “I'm sorry, I can't watch this”, walk out of the cinema, and call the police. Ever heard the saying “be careful what you wish for?” I wish i'd heeded that warning, I really do.
January 11, 2014
I've read it so many times and I still enjoy it. An excellent collection of stories from accomplished writers, while these stories didn't have me on the edge of the seat, bristling in fear at the mysterious footsteps in the attic, they were amusing to read. Curl- up- in- your- bed- under- the- covers good read!!! ;D
March 16, 2010
This book was kind of scary to me but then again i was trying to imagine that happening and i was freaked out . I learned from this book a lot of different things for example saying that happens a lot which what goes around comes around if you want people to be nice to you you have to be nice to them.
December 8, 2010
I was obsessed with this book after a friend loaned me her copy in the 6th grade. It introduced me to the Scholastic's Point Horror imprint, which lead me to read Christopher Pike, Richie Tankerseley Cusick, R.L. Stine, Diane Hoh, Ellen Emerson White, Caroline B. Cooney, D.E Athkins, A. Bates, and more.
May 15, 2011
completed reading it.. took a long time to complete... cause it is pretty boring.. the books starts with something very much boring.. then there are like7 out of 13 stories which really pi*sed me off..
never this i never believe that books could scare ppl.. this proved me wrong.. worth a read... if you are a new to this horror thing in books.. dont expect a lot of horror...
never this i never believe that books could scare ppl.. this proved me wrong.. worth a read... if you are a new to this horror thing in books.. dont expect a lot of horror...
January 27, 2012
Thirteen storys of Horror from 13 masters of horror. What's in store for these characters in each of the 13 short storys? This book is sure to give you a good chill to the bone and make you feel close to death; almost though. But come in close your eyes relax and have a little fun. Those sounds you hear is only the beginning
October 21, 2014
I love this book! at first my sister got it for me when she went to the library after that we could not find it again and we searched everywhere, after a year we gave up but then she found it and bought it for my birthday...we started to think it was going to turn into a creepy pasta when we couldn't find the book.
March 12, 2014
This book was creepy,and action-packed! It gave me shivers in the entire book, a real page turner no matter how terrifying it is, I almost got nightmares as I read it before bed-time. 13 different stories written by 13 famous authors. I could completely imagine the situation in my head (descriptive). It was also very exciting, as there were sudden twists in the story.
May 28, 2008
I owned a pathetically tattered copy of this book when I was a kid and I absolutely loved it. I finally decided to get rid of it when I had to carry the loose pages around in a Ziploc bag. A great pulp horror novel, especially for younger readers just getting into the genre.
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