A Comedy of Tragedies: An American Memoir for the Completely Dysfunctional

by Steve Barton

Steve Barton, co-founder and former Editor-in-Chief of Dread Central, stands as a trailblazer in horror journalism, marking his place as one of the internet's first genre influencers. His autobiography transcends mere industry insights, offering a poignant journey through peaks and valleys with unfiltered emotional honesty. From grappling with the stark realities of 9/11 to being mentored by icons like George A. Romero and Sid Haig, and ultimately playing a pivotal role in the success of the Terrifier film franchise.



A Comedy of Tragedies is for everyone and anyone who dreams big in the face of daunting odds and lives to tell the story.

341 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 10, 2024

Reviews

[Kyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Full disclosure: I have known in passing Uncle Creepy for what seems like forever. We have been social media friends and shared a few conversations.

But none of that could prepare me for his autobiography, A Comedy Of Tragedies. Looking at the title and also knowing a bit of the man's history, I had a feeling I could surmise what would be coming. But even armed with that knowledge I was not prepared.

First and foremost, if you have an issue with crass language, you may not enjoy this book. Much like myself, Steve will sometimes use the F word like a comma and certainly knows how to spin some words together that can't help but make you laugh. There were several times while reading that I legitimately laughed out loud.

As I don't want to go into spoiler territory, I will say that while I expected to enjoy much of the horror business side of things more, I found myself in many ways more invested in the years before of Steve's chaotic family life. At no point does he shy away from the bad things in his life and always takes responsibility for his actions in those parts.

More than anything else, I have to say that this became a very easy read due to Steve's style of writing, which honestly makes you feel like you are sitting in your living room, having a drink and just trading stories. The way he writes is both so conversational but hilarious.

There is a lot I did not know about the falling out of Dread Central, something I had always wondered about seeing as I was a regular there and that is how I first came into contact with Steve himself, so it was interesting finding out the business dealings that led to his unceremonious exit.

Overall, I highly recommend this book, not just for horror fans, but for people who want to read a story of someone's true life, where life has at times seemingly taken every opportunity to batter them down and leave them with nothing, but he keeps fighting no matter what. Steve's story is one of horror, love, loss, death, shenanigans, but more than any of that, is an ode to staying true to yourself and never, ever giving up.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to BookSirens and Encyclopocalypse Publications for providing a review copy.

Having been a horror movie fan since I was 3, of course I knew who Uncle Creepy is. What a life he's led. This book is chock full of stories about some of my horror idols. Steve Barton has been through a lot in his lifetime and I find his tenacity inspiring. This memoir is a love letter to horror and I quite enjoyed it. 4 stars

[Books For Decaying Millennials · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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Picture if you will a massive meatgrinder, I personally visualize one like in the opening credits to You Can't Do That on Television, but either way keep that image in your minds. Into this meat grinder is thrown a handle full of different personalities: Harvey Pekar, Zak Bagans, Don Rickles, Rodney Dangerfield, J.Michael Straczynski and last but not least Sven Goulie. The end product, the meat homunculus that is produced is none other than the author of this memoir Steve Barton. Is not of course a literal meat homunculus, the blending of those aforementioned personalities is what comes across in his writing.

Memoirs are a tricky thing, often you have books that are less a open telling from the named author and more a collaboration between the named person and some ghostwriter, or sometimes they turn out to be partial truths mixed with a few flourishes of the truth to bind it all together. For this reason I am very particular when it comes to memoirs, the weight of the endeavor, the real flesh of it, must come across to the reader. In presenting his story, the way he does, Steve Barton not only gets to the flesh of the matter, he presents the reader with nothing short of a live Vivisection of his life. As we peel back layers, and expose parts of the man that are painfully honest and intimate, there Steve is urging us along and fueling rounds of laughter.
Steve deserves the Charlie Brown lifetime award for persevering when the world seems to insisit he get knocked down. In that same way, As Steve retells the roller-coaster moments and the the hearbreak I was reminded of the work of the late Harvey Pekar. Harvey, like Steve, was brutally honest in his work. Life sometimes was fraught with troubles and hardship, but even that births insight, births art.
A Comedy of Tragedies can be viewed like Neapolitan ice cream, a tri-fill of experiences, with tragedy and hardship being only one part. Whether it be tales of the paranormal or bonkers retelling gatherings within the horror community, Steve brings the reader along for the ride. Amidst all this, he speaks directly to the reader bringing waves of laughter.
Steve has opened his life, and bared his inner core to the reader. Take my advice and accept his invitation to see where life has brought him thus far.

[Michael Livingston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I didn't really know what to expect when I decided to join the Arc team for A Comedy of Tragedies. As many horror fans have I had heard of Steve "Uncle Creepy" Barton and had some knowledge of what he had done for horror and his passion for the community. I have never been one to go on and participate in message boards much, I have opinions of them I'll keep to myself as I know many have found friends and a place to be themselves through them, but they haven't been for me. I found Uncle Creepy through his work on Dread Central and reading some of the news and a few other of his many contributions to the horror world. All of that being said, no matter if you are a fan of horror or not you should read this, it is an interesting and as the title says tragic tale.

Uncle Creepy has spent a lifetime working for the horror fans in the world and reading this story sometimes brought tears to my eyes, sometimes a healthy dose of skepticism and other times wanting more of the story, you'll know what I mean you read the book. I flew through this book as I could barely put it down, it's just such an interesting story. He seems to be genuine in his writing and just wants to get his story out there or at least out of his head. Everyone has there crosses to bear some more than others and reading Uncle Creepy's "Comedy of Tragedies" may in some way help give you some solace or a reprieve from your own struggles. It did me a bit even if it was a short one, you should pick this up for many reasons, but the biggest is it's a great read, as the stories are engaging.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really appreciated Steve Barton sharing his story with us the readers, it had that element that I was expecting in this type of book. The journey was everything that I was hoping for and enjoyed learning about horror journalism. It was written in a way that hooked the reader and was glad it was so well done.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Justin Dark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have you ever read about your life in a book? I just did and it’s surreal, to say the least. I appear in this book in a few places, having woven in and around the thread of Steve’s life for around 20 years. (Back in the day, I was Mr. Dark on Dread Central and Brainwaves.) That’s my late wife in the very important segment of the book. Even more surreal? I didn’t know the second half of that story. I learned of it when I listened to it as part of this book. Huh. She’s been gone 8 years and she still surprises me.

Steve gave me a copy of the audiobook to review, knowing I’d be honest. We have knocked skulls over many issues in days gone by, but one thing that bound us together was integrity. He was my editor, and he never asked me to boost a review score or write glowingly about a project that was buying ads from us. On the contrary, we would both take to the message boards and make it clear: WE ARE WHORES GIVE US MONEY. Nobody ever did. Shame.

“A Comedy Of Tragedies” is a very strange book, but that makes sense as it is the story so far of a very strange man. Unlike most memoirs, it wasn’t written at the end of a life. Steve’s younger than me. He’s still going like an Energizer bunny from hell. This leads to the book being very uneven tonally at times. From a recounting of absolute personal despair to a funny anecdote about his friends growing up. The book even jumps around quite a bit chronologically. This does make it difficult to follow at times. The inclusion of some things seem very weird. Some stories seem very minor and inconsequential, and he includes the entire text of this story from the old DC boards that he’s been obsessed with for over a decade and I fail to see the slightest bit of humor in, at all, in any way, period.

That said, you need to know two things about Steve before you read this book. The first is that every single time I ran into some oddity or time jump, the same two words flashed into my mind: that’s Steve. Steve is exactly who you read in these pages. He says it at one point. What you see is what you get. He doesn’t put on airs. So when something trips you up and makes you wonder why it’s there, that’s Steve. Just say those words.

The other thing you need to know is that Steve is a fan. He says that, too, but you don’t get it: he is A FAN. THE FAN. He can’t stop being one. He can’t conduct himself as a “person of title” (spoiler) because he’s a fan. If he writes and produces the best horror film of the next ten years? He’ll do it as a fan. You’ll hit a point in the book where he engages in a bit of name dropping. Shortly after, he repeats the list almost verbatim, having forgotten that he did it before. This would be pretty repulsive unless you understand: he’s a fan. He’s not bragging. He’s sharing this with you from fan to fan, in disbelief. He’s still walking around confused about his life.

I’ll share MY con anecdote to explain this about him, and explain about half of the book. The one Texas Frightmare Weekend he got to attend was as a regular attendee. He came out to see the show, because I wouldn’t shut up about it. While we were walking the floor, Steve getting stopped by people every 5 feet (including Doug Bradley, who proceeded to pretend to be an elderly man with dementia who was lost, and they performed a little improv skit together for a few minutes and I still can’t believe I’m the only human who got to witness that) until we ran into Adrienne Barbeau’s table. She was busy, of course, but he went in for a hug and to say hi. She says to him, “Where’s your table?” He tells her he isn’t a guest. She looks completely baffled and says, “WHY?!?”

And that’s Steve. He had no idea. He wouldn’t be a guest at a con for nearly another TEN YEARS because he is stubborn and does not listen. Even to Adrienne Barbeau. If Adrienne Barbeau ever tells you anything, anything at all, listen. She’s Adrienne GD Barbeau.

So take those two facts with you, and if you give a damn about horror, read or listen to this book. It’s good. You’ll learn a lot of stuff. He actually could write a sequel, because I can rattle off five other ways we changed the culture. Not just horror, not just film, the culture.

History has only had a small number of people like Steve. Bob Burns. Tony Timpone. Forry Ackerman. Fans that loved their genre so much that they changed the world.

On the audiobook, the narrator does a wonderful job. The production reminds me of A Christmas Story Goes To Hell, as he has a little Jean Shepherd to his voice. The inclusion of some excellent music and a couple of audio extras at the end are well worth going with the audio unless you must have print. If you want him to autograph a copy, buy the audiobook, then have him autograph your butt at a con. Find a tattoo artist and have his face and his autograph tattooed there and become part of the Uncle Creepy legend.

[Lauren Ott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been dying to read this one since Steve announced it on his Facebook page. I've been an avid follower since back in the MySpace days, and have the upmost respect for him and the whole horror community.
Too many parts of this book hit close to home, and make me feel like I was not alone in this world.
But between the life stories, there was absolute laughter with the completely absurd A Tale of Suffering (loved it!)

I highly recommend this book for all horror lovers, and people going through shit
You are not alone

Excellent work here, Mr Barton

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I went into this thinking "okay, gonna support my longtime friend and his work."

Let me be the first to tell you, it doesn't matter if you know Steve or not, you really need to read this book! It's an emotionally difficult read in places but it's also inspirational. If you know him you're going to love him even more. If you don't you'll feel like you do.

[Margarita Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

definitely a must read!!!

I couldn’t put this book down! We definitely want to read another one of Steve Barton’s books. Thank you for sharing your story with us!

[Silver Screen Videos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like many longtime moviegoers, I’ve seen my share of horror movies over the years. I even remember watching the black-and-white creature features on Saturday afternoon television as a pre-teen. I enjoy good horror movies and so-bad-they’re-good ones. However, I’ve never been a hardcore fan. I know a sizable audience of such fans who frequent horror websites and attend conventions and fanfests. My exposure to that world has been limited to occasional website research for various film and book reviews (like this one). Even with such limited familiarity, I knew the name Uncle Creepy. I thought his memoir might give me greater insight into an industry that’s often far more fascinating than many of its finished products. “A Comedy of Tragedies” by Steve Barton (Uncle Creepy’s actual name) gave me what I was looking for. It also provided an even more fascinating look at the life story of the man behind Uncle Creepy.

“A Comedy of Tragedies” is an autobiography of Steve Barton, not a celebrity memoir. The material about his experience in the horror industry and the various notables he has encountered doesn’t begin until almost halfway through the book. Although Barton was a lifelong horror fan, he didn’t get involved in the horror industry (or with writing of any kind) until his late 20s. Instead, he starts the book by describing how he grew up. The “tragedies” portion of the book’s title is apt. Barton had an abusive, alcoholic father who made his life miserable. His mother died when he was a teenager (he literally walked in and discovered her body in bed one morning), and his father died a few years later. A close girlfriend’s parents told him she was too good for him and caused their breakup. His best childhood friend died on 9/11. One of the book’s most riveting passages is Barton’s description of taking the train to work in downtown Manhattan that day and seeing the first plane hit the Twin Towers. Barton’s exit from the city that day, accompanied by thousands of other frightened people, is the stuff of real-life horror.

Barton doesn’t shy away from describing the emotional pain he felt at these events and other personal tragedies in his later life. Instead, he acknowledges that writing “A Comedy of Tragedies” was a matter of facing his personal demons and making them public as a form of catharsis. His raw honesty is evident many times in the book. So, too, is his writing skill. Barton’s writing is often eloquent, humorous, and descriptive. For example, when describing the trash bins at the Florida condo where he once lived, Barton says: “I came to realize in no time that Floridian trash areas were much like New York public toilets in that whoever uses them instantly forgets everything that they’ve been taught about cleanliness and hygiene. … The only difference really was a lack of graffiti and the occasional jump-scare provided by eager frogs who were just trying to score a meal.”

The author’s recounting of his younger days isn’t all gloom and doom. Barton includes several entertaining youthful escapades as well. He describes his introduction to horror movies when, as a five-year-old, he saw “Night of the Living Dead” on television and mistakenly thought the events were actually occurring (much like Orson Welles’ Mercury Theater radio broadcast had fooled people a lot older than young Barton). Later, when Barton met George Romero for the first time, he described the moment as “one that brought me 110 percent full circle.” Romero enjoyed the story, which may have led to Barton appearing as a zombie in one of Romero’s subsequent movies.

Barton’s introduction to the horror industry came in an unusual manner. A man who sold him a “Jurassic Park” model cage on eBay was Tony Timpone, an executive at “Fangoria” magazine. He hired Barton to moderate the magazine’s chat forums (a position in which Barton first called himself Uncle Creepy). From there, Barton co-founded the “DreadCentral” website, where he became the editor for many years. Barton’s description of his business career is spotty, but some things are clear. First, people in the industry don’t get rich. Barton moonlighted at various low-paying jobs throughout his career to make ends meet, including a gig at GameStop. Second, the industry has plenty of people who know far more about writing and making horror than about the business of horror. Barton frequently butted heads with one group he dubbed the Ass Clowns at the start of his career. Years later, he had another awful experience with a man he dubbed “Shake-and-Bake.” In both cases, Barton eventually moved on. This is the part of “A Comedy of Tragedies” I wish Barton had gone into more detail about.

Most people who read “A Comedy of Tragedies” will want to hear stories about the celebrities Barton met throughout his career. He doesn’t disappoint them, although he sometimes resorts to some unwieldy dropping a dozen or more names in a row with little individual explanation. Barton frequently attended conventions and fanfests where the late-night parties involved copious amounts of booze and controlled substances. One enjoyable story he relates involved the night he tried to match drinks with Tyler Mane, the seven-foot-tall actor who played Michael Myers in Rob Zombie’s “Halloween” movies. That night did not end well for him. Many of Barton’s stories mention his good friend, actor Sid Haig, who starred in several of Zombie’s films. At one horror convention held at a Marriott hotel, Haig actually officiated at a couple’s wedding in full horror costume.

Towards the end of “A Comedy of Tragedies,” Barton describes his most recent career highlight, his involvement in producing and publicizing “Terrifier 2.” The movie managed a sizable theatrical run and was quite successful. Further, its “star,” Art the Clown, is probably the hottest current horror icon. (A third “Terrifier” movie has been released since Barton wrote his book.) I expected Barton to end the book by giving himself a well-deserved pat on the back for the success of “Terrifier 2.” However, life intervened. In the last chapters, Barton describes a personal tragedy and a professional setback following the making of “Terrifier 2.” His description of those events packs perhaps the greatest emotional wallop of any part of the book. This material made me appreciate Steve Barton much more as a writer than as a sometimes crude, witty raconteur. (It also raised my book rating from four to five stars.)

The core audience for “A Comedy of Tragedies” are those people who are already very familiar with names like Tyler Mane and Sid Haig and don’t have to resort to some quick IMDb research. They will love Barton’s story. However, this is a book that mainstream audiences can also enjoy if they give it a chance. His triumphs and tragedies will resonate with anyone who experienced similar emotions. (One incident he describes is eerily similar to an event in my life.) Readers will also learn more about the business of horror, a fascinating subject on its own. There’s nothing creepy about Uncle Creepy’s writing; it’s just plain good.

NOTE: The publisher graciously provided me with a copy of this book through BookSirens. However, the decision to review the book and the contents of this review are entirely my own.

[Joshua Welch · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like to think I’m fairly well engrained in the horror community, yet somehow I’d never heard of Uncle Creepy until a recent post about a former Terrifier fan covering up their Art the Clown tattoo led to this book being recommended. Steve has seen some serious shit. Steve has experienced such in your face loss and trauma that would crush many many people yet he’s pushed through. I with this book would have detailed a bit more about what he actually did to get himself so involved in the horror community vs skipping those pieces to focus on the cool experiences Steve had. Honestly it sounds like he lucked into things time and time again and each one just crashed and burned leading him to rise from the ashes. Read this as a book of overcoming trauma with some fun stories involving horror greats and you’ll enjoy it. Don’t go into it hoping for a guide on how you yourself can get involved in horror cons and horror movies.

[Travis Chambers · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fascinating look into the life of Steve Barton. It took me a while to get through this book if I’m being honest, lots of personal things slowed by progress, and yet, what a book to read to help me get through them at the same time. Steve starts his story early and throughout his life never stops being brutally honest. When your going through your own struggles, it’s nice to read someone’s experiences that don’t sugarcoat there own. If your a fan of horror, this does give a wonderful look behind the curtain on so many aspects, and shows how one horror fan can be true to themselves and fall deeper into an industry they love. Truly, Steve is a “Person of Title” and even to the end, doesn’t hide the ups and downs.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you a horror fan? Are you a fan of fantastic biographies? If so, book is for YOU! The book provides an insiders look and the real of horror films and fandom through the eyes of a man firmly ensconced in that community. You won’t believe some of the revelations exposed here. But the best part, is he descriptions of Barton’s childhood through “adulthood” (his adult status is tenuous at best…lol). In all seriousness, this just may be my favorite biography of all time, but I also loved the exploration of life in the horror community. Bravo, Mr. Barton. You’ve achieved greatness.

[Jason Weber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 11 of 2025.

The memoir of Uncle Creepy! All I can say is one helluva story, from one helluva guy!
I bought my copy from the man himself at the I Heart Horror con in Jersey. If you have never met Uncle Creepy, you are doing it wrong! Steve is one of the nicest, most genuine people out there.
This book was great, just read it!

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Steve is an absolute legend through and through. And not just for what he’s accomplished in the horror industry (which is A LOT). He’s also a genuine gem of a person. This is a great book for horror fans, but it’s also a good read for anyone. Especially if you’ve ever felt down and out or outcast. Seriously, get you a copy!

[Thomas Or Felicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life can be amazing when it's not kicking your teeth out

Steve Barton's memoir is an amazing story of over coming tragedy, hitting the heights of success, and getting knocked down again by traitorous friends, family, and business partners.

[Zombieman · Rating 5 out of 5]

5-Star Review: A Darkly Hilarious, Heartfelt Triumph for Horror Fans and Beyond

Steve Barton’s A Comedy of Tragedies is nothing less than a masterpiece—a wild, raw, and deeply moving journey through a life shaped by chaos, resilience, and an unrelenting love for the horror genre. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the macabre or someone drawn to stories of survival, self-discovery, and the triumph of the human spirit, this book will resonate with you on a profound level.

From the moment I turned the first page, I felt a deep connection with Barton’s story. His ability to lay bare the darker corners of his life—broken family dynamics, moments of gut-wrenching loss, and a childhood that left scars, both literal and figurative—is as courageous as it is compelling. Yet what makes A Comedy of Tragedies so extraordinary is the way Barton weaves these moments of pain with humor, wit, and a relentless sense of hope. His voice is unmistakable: sharp, self-aware, and infused with a warmth that makes even the darkest moments shine.

For those of us who grew up finding solace in horror—whether it was sneaking a late-night viewing of Night of the Living Dead or paging through issues of Fangoria—Barton’s journey feels like coming home. His recounting of discovering George A. Romero’s classic film as a child is electrifying, capturing that magical, terrifying moment when horror grips you for the first time and never lets go. Barton’s love for the genre isn’t just a theme in this book—it’s the heartbeat of it. Horror isn’t just something he consumes; it’s what saved him, what connected him to the world, and what gave him the courage to be himself.

But this book isn’t just for horror fans. Barton’s story transcends the genre, touching on universal themes of perseverance, identity, and the power of finding your people. His anecdotes—both hilarious and heartbreaking—are written with such honesty that they’ll resonate with anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider. He doesn’t shy away from the messy, complicated parts of life, but instead embraces them, showing us how they shape who we are.

Barton’s gift as a storyteller lies in his ability to blend the absurd and the profound. One moment you’re laughing at his sharp-tongued commentary on convention life or his mother’s quirks, and the next you’re choking back tears as he reflects on love, loss, and the resilience it takes to keep going. His voice is so authentic, so vibrant, that you feel like you’re sitting across from a friend, swapping stories and sharing truths.

For readers like me who identify with parts of Barton’s life—the family struggles, the moments of loneliness, the solace found in a world of monsters—A Comedy of Tragedies is deeply personal. Steve’s ability to turn pain into something meaningful, even uplifting, is nothing short of inspiring. He doesn’t just tell his story; he offers readers a lifeline, a reminder that even in the darkest times, there’s light (and often laughter) to be found.

What makes this book exceptional is that it’s more than a memoir—it’s a testament to the transformative power of art and connection. Barton’s passion for horror is contagious, his love for the people in his life palpable, and his willingness to bare it all truly extraordinary. He’s not just a fan or a writer; he’s a force of nature, and this book is a gift to anyone lucky enough to read it.

Whether you’re a horror aficionado or just someone who loves a damn good story, A Comedy of Tragedies will stay with you long after you’ve finished the last page. It’s dark, hilarious, heartbreaking, and hopeful all at once—a true reflection of the man behind it.

Steve, thank you for this incredible gift. Your story, your humor, and your heart are a reminder to all of us to keep fighting, keep loving, and above all, keep being unapologetically ourselves. You’ve made me laugh, cry, and reflect—and for that, I’m eternally grateful.

Bravo, Steve. You’re one of a kind.

[Marissa Feldmeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

*A Comedy of Tragedies* by Steve Barton is an absolute MUST-READ!

This book beautifully encapsulates the essence of overcoming challenges and the importance of self-empowerment. It tears your heart apart and then mends it with laughter. It truly takes you on a wild ride of emotions. I cried—really cried—so hard that my eyes were puffy, and then I found myself in fits of laughter. Some stories were so funny that I kept reading them over and over again. “They float!!!” When you read it, you’ll discover what floats, but, damn, that part got me good.

There were also moments of pure rage and fury directed at those who wronged Steve. Honestly, I was tempted to start writing anonymous hate letters to these despicable individuals and mail them out every single day. I was enraged!

Steve's voice in his storytelling comes through so strongly, and the writing is so good that sometimes I forgot I was reading his book; it felt like I was having one of our lunchtime chats. Yup, that’s right—I have the honor of knowing Steve in real life. He’s one of my lunchtime regulars at the pizza shop where I work. Steve often talks about a gravitational pull towards certain people, and I believe that gravity got me because I knew right away that Steve was one of the good guys and someone who would be a constant in my life. I even had the privilege of being a witness on his marriage license and delivering pizza with my boss to the newlyweds on their wedding night.

Yes, this book also features a love story—well, stories—but man, oh man, did Steve find his soulmate in Dani.

For any horror enthusiast, or really anyone captivated by a relentless individual driven by passion, you will be enthralled by Steve’s trials, tribulations, and triumphs within the horror industry. I’ll keep this short and sweet, as I don’t want to spoil any part of it for those who will be reading. But what I will say is that Steve was born to do what he does. Plain and simple.

Now, for those who enjoy a little paranormal activity or something that can’t be explained, this book is tailor-made for you. It’s filled from front to back with an array of intriguing encounters that will absolutely captivate you and leave your mouth hanging open.

I truly believe this book has something for everyone. Steve’s life is worth knowing, his fight for life is worth knowing, and his passion for horror and brilliance is worth knowing, because this guy’s story is far from over. I cannot wait to cheer him on for whatever this gem of a man touches next.

Lastly, I just wanted to end this review by mentioning the name: DAVID LAWRENCE TIRADO. You'll understand why after you read the book and be screaming it with me.

Steve, if you read this review, congratulations on your book! You did it! You ARE a writer—and a GREAT one. The ending made me smile genuinely. I give it a 10/10.

All love,
Marissa Feldmeth/Brown

[Chris Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a horror fan. That is what gravitated me towards this book. I enjoy reading the ins and outs of both horror, the movie industry and people’s creative paths in general. I like to know not only what it is like where they currently are but the full story behind how they got there. A Comedy of Tragedies scratches all of those itches and then some.

When you open this book… before Steve even gets started… he leaves you with a page to draw or write whatever you want on it. Whether you write anything or not, the sentiment is there. It immediately makes reading this book feel different. This was also written by Steve himself. In his own language. It’s raw and unapologetic. He is essentially sitting you down and breaking down his life to you in hopes that you will gain something from his story. It’s personal. You do not feel as if you are in a lecture hall with him speaking to a large group of people. Instead, imagine yourself in a Chinese restaurant with him talking directly to you. A large wall off to the side with bubbles shooting up as you sip your tea and hear him break down some of the most personal, hilarious, heartbreaking and brutally honest stories that shaped him into who he is today.

As for the horror industry side? Insightful and hilarious. I attend many conventions myself so reading stories about the glory days of those conventions? When there were less rules? I am talking back in the day when the most you paid for an autograph was $20 to $30. They are all broken down in the funniest ways. I would end each night reading these remarkable tales and fall asleep wondering who the unnamed celebrity was that Steve walked in on butt naked and acted like it was nothing. There are ups and there are downs. Some very unfortunate downs. However, even in its hardest and most tragic moments, they are always handled in a respectful manner. It doesn’t feel lopsided. It just is what it is. You read it, retain it and form your own opinions on it.

That is just a small taste of what is waiting in the pages of this book. I opened this book looking for tales of the industry. What I got was much more. I walked away with a feeling like I could conquer the world. You got knocked down? Lick your wounds if you must but GET. BACK. UP. Gather speed from those who f’ with you and by all means KEEP GOING.

[RP Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Off the top, what a beautiful, tragic, crude, touching, poignant, fucking hilarious ride Steve Barton has shared with us here. I came to this book almost blind. I had met Steve once previously and being a member of the horror community, knew who he was but I wasn’t prepared for this.

An interview with Steve was coming up and instead of reading articles and listening to other people’s conversations with him, I was excited to see he had written a book. Expecting some fun anecdotes about growing up and his history with the horror community I happily bit in. The initial story about violently losing a beloved childhood toy coupled with his first memory being so brutal immediately endeared me to him. This was so vulnerable and open while maintaining a level of true objectivity as to weave genuine humor throughout. By the third chapter I completely forgot why I had initially started this book and just couldn’t put it down. When Steve gets to the portion of his story that includes his influence in the horror community I was so invested in the people and situations of his general life it almost came as a surprise. Rarely have I laughed out loud and welled up so frequently at an autobiography. Steve truly balances the tragedy and comedy of his time on earth so far, giving both equal room to breathe, and very much earning the title of this book.

I have read a lot of memoirs and there’s usually something interesting about everyone’s life but Steve’s wide open, unbelievable journey from fucked up childhood to horror icon had me entirely enthralled. On a personal level, I heavily related to his recollections and challenges and felt a real kinship before even hitting the midway point.

I capital L Loved this book and would recommend it to anyone and everyone whether they’re familiar with Steve or the community at all. It’s simply a gorgeously told, ribald tale of perseverance that will leave you hoping he has a follow up looming on the horizon somewhere in the future.

[Samuel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book.

When I read the description, I felt incredibly intrigued. I don't typically read books quite like this one.

I struggled making it through this entire piece. At times, the prose feels compulsively readable, if unbelievable. Some of the sections feel like shock value for the sake of shock value.

That said, Barton does an excellent job at building a strong connection with his reader. He beautifully, if disturbingly, describes horror - and not just the supernatural sort.

I truly appreciate his dedication to the craft and the determination that pushed him through trauma.

[Alex Cowperthwaite · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I'm going just going to come out and say it. I'm NOT a giant horror fan. I enjoy it, but that's not why I read this book. Steve is a very close personal friend, so why wouldn't I want to read an exposé of his entire life? I will admit, it was a little weird at first reading these stories. But damn if it wasn't SO DAMN GOOD! There are times where you are going to belly laugh til it hurts. There are times where you will be bawling your eyes out. And everything in between. I could not put it down to save my life. I now know more about my friend than most people do about lifelong best friends, and I love him that much more for it. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves horror, or just loves a fantastic memoir.

[Andria Schultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Steve Barton for two years now, and I can honestly say he’s one of the SWEETEST and most down-to-earth people I’ve met in the Entertainment Industry. When he offered me the chance to read his book before it was published, I was absolutely honored!

If you’re looking for a book that faces life’s struggles head-on with humor, A Comedy of Tragedies by Steve “Uncle Creepy” Barton is a must-read. This isn’t just a series of laughs—it’s a raw, unapologetic dive into life’s toughest moments, all wrapped in dark, unexpected humor. As Steve so wisely puts it, “Sometimes you’ve just got to laugh. It’s the only way to keep your sanity.” This book is both cathartic and hilarious, showing that no matter how tragic life gets, there’s always room for a punchline.

[Steve Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not a review. I hate that I had to assign “stars,” but my life has been negative enough, I don’t need any more 1-star moments, so disingenuous or not - I’m taking my 5 and calling it a day. I mentioned already that my life’s been largely negativite experience (Will not be coming back, do not recommend), buts it’s also been amazing. Case in point these real reviews.

Just a word of thanks to those who have taken the time to peek behind the curtain and give a shit about some dude who got really lucky. THANK YOU. 🙏

PS- I’ve only written this one book, I have no idea what the other 7 listed under my name are.

[Karen Deal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven't been so engaged by a book in forever, first time in years I read a book in one sitting. This book will take you on such a wild journey through the life of a man unafraid to show every side of himself. In Steve's story you get the good & the bad, it's all laid out there. It honestly hit me in all the feels, it made me feel understood & less alone. Do yourself a favor & give it a read, it's way more than worth it.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book grabs your heart ...it hugs it and tries to kill it all at the same time. If you can't relate to Steve Barton and his tales of his life....then you haven't lived. By the time I finished it...I wanted more. One of my favorite reads ever!

[Tracy Vasholz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book ... Can't put it down! This shit is real and it hits home. I appreciate the strength and courage it took this Author to put all of himself in this book, exposure is real, and can really change a person! Thank you for that Mr. Barton! You may be my new fav.

[Josh Stolberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll admit that I'm biased! I've known Uncle Creepy for years. But this book delivers! Absolutely loved it. It's a personal memoir about growing up and how Steve eventually found himself in the horror world. He bleed a lot (emotionally) to make it to the top of the genre. Check this out!

[Chris Sembrot · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's depressing. It's funny. It's a rollercoaster of emotions. A behind the scenes peak at the life and times of a horror legend and the industry that tried to break him. Plus...He might literally be cursed. Great read!

[Joshua the Terrible · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damn I knew he could write on a website, but a book? A Comedy of Tragedies was better than I hoped, full of heart and honesty from an unblinking look at a very interesting (and yes, tragic at times) life.

Barton is a great storyteller, taking you deftly from out loud laughs as he talks of the foibles of the horror industry, to tears regailing you with stories about family and his struggles with them.

Steve is, to put it simple, a great writer, and this book finally gives him the outlet to bare his soul, which is a dark and beautiful sight. Highly recommended!