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Horror for Weenies: Everything You Need to Know About the Films You're Too Scared to Watch
You don't have to miss out just because you don't like to be frightened! Stop trying to read nonsensical Wikipedia plot summaries (we know you're doing it), and let an expert tell you everything you need to know about the most influential horror films of the past sixty years—without a single jump scare or a drop of gore.
With a rundown of the history and significance of horror cinema, explanations of common tropes, and detailed entries on twenty-five important movies ranging from Night of the Living Dead to The Blair Witch Project to Get Out, Horror for Weenies will turn even the scarediest of cats into a confident connoisseur.
Each entry a detailed plot summary, with enough jokes that it won't freak you out; smart, illuminating analysis of the film's themes and cultural significance; descriptions of iconic scenes you definitely do not want to look at; and talking points for impressing even the biggest scary-movie buffs.
Horror for Weenies is the first installment in the Outsider's Guide series, which offers highly listenable crash courses in major cultural phenomena, so you can catch the references and understand the big deal. Never get left out of a conversation again!
With a rundown of the history and significance of horror cinema, explanations of common tropes, and detailed entries on twenty-five important movies ranging from Night of the Living Dead to The Blair Witch Project to Get Out, Horror for Weenies will turn even the scarediest of cats into a confident connoisseur.
Each entry a detailed plot summary, with enough jokes that it won't freak you out; smart, illuminating analysis of the film's themes and cultural significance; descriptions of iconic scenes you definitely do not want to look at; and talking points for impressing even the biggest scary-movie buffs.
Horror for Weenies is the first installment in the Outsider's Guide series, which offers highly listenable crash courses in major cultural phenomena, so you can catch the references and understand the big deal. Never get left out of a conversation again!
Audible Audio
First published September 3, 2024
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April 16, 2024
Horror for Weenies: Everything You Need to Know About the Films You're Too Scared to Watch by Emily C. Hughes
Page Count: 272
Publisher: Quirk
Other Books I Enjoyed by This Author: Debut book but I have been a fan of Emily's for a long time going back to her Tor Nightfire blog days and her website, Read Jump Scares
https://readjumpscares.com
Affiliate Link: https://bookshop.org/a/7576/978168369...
Release Date: 9/3/2024
General Genre: BISAC Categories:
Topic - Celebrity & Popular Culture
Film - Guides & Reviews
Film - Genres - Horror
Sub-Genre/Themes: Horror movies, history/trivia/fun facts, educational, humor
Writing Style: Fun, informational, and hilarious
What You Need to Know: This book is for a really specific audience--people who are too afraid to watch horror movies but still enjoy knowing everything they can about them--including spoilers and plot details because they know for sure they're too scared to watch. In other words, ME!
My Reading Experience: This book was made for me. I am that person who hears people talking about the scariest movie they just saw and runs to Wikipedia to read the entire plot summary, spoilers and all, just so I can know all the grisly, gruesome details without having to actually experience them in real time. The problem with horror movies are the visuals that get stuck in my brain and haunt me while I'm trying to go to sleep. My mind will replay the worst scene from a movie over and over again on repeat. It's no use trying to make my brain stop--it won't listen to me. It tries to assault me with terrifying visuals until I just give up and turn the light on or watch Spongebob Squarepants. The best thing for me to do is just not watch horror movies. Sometimes, I try to be courageous and I make myself go to a big, exciting release (like Hereditary) or my daughter peer pressures me into watching something (like Midsommar) and I always regret it. This book explains the whole movie for weenies like me who refuse to watch it. Weirdly enough, I have seen over half of the movies in this book, but I only enjoyed the experience for like 10 of those. Ha!
..
I refused to watch several of the movies
..
I saw and hated myself afterward two of the movies
I loved Emily's plot summaries, asides, and personal anecdotes. It was like talking about scary movies with a best friend. Plus I tucked away all the fun facts and things I would have never known if I hadn't read this book. So much to learn here!
Final Recommendation: Even though this book is supposed to be for scaredy cats and weenies, I think horror movie buffs will enjoy Emily's commentary, fun facts & trivia, and all the jokes and asides. A great bedside or coffee table book. Makes a great gift for cinephiles.
Comps: 101 Horror Books to Read Before You're Murdered by (me), Paperbacks From Hell by Grady Hendrix, and Necessary Death: What Horror Movies Teach Us about Navigating the Human Experience by Preston Fassel and Chris Grosso
Page Count: 272
Publisher: Quirk
Other Books I Enjoyed by This Author: Debut book but I have been a fan of Emily's for a long time going back to her Tor Nightfire blog days and her website, Read Jump Scares
https://readjumpscares.com
Affiliate Link: https://bookshop.org/a/7576/978168369...
Release Date: 9/3/2024
General Genre: BISAC Categories:
Topic - Celebrity & Popular Culture
Film - Guides & Reviews
Film - Genres - Horror
Sub-Genre/Themes: Horror movies, history/trivia/fun facts, educational, humor
Writing Style: Fun, informational, and hilarious
What You Need to Know: This book is for a really specific audience--people who are too afraid to watch horror movies but still enjoy knowing everything they can about them--including spoilers and plot details because they know for sure they're too scared to watch. In other words, ME!
My Reading Experience: This book was made for me. I am that person who hears people talking about the scariest movie they just saw and runs to Wikipedia to read the entire plot summary, spoilers and all, just so I can know all the grisly, gruesome details without having to actually experience them in real time. The problem with horror movies are the visuals that get stuck in my brain and haunt me while I'm trying to go to sleep. My mind will replay the worst scene from a movie over and over again on repeat. It's no use trying to make my brain stop--it won't listen to me. It tries to assault me with terrifying visuals until I just give up and turn the light on or watch Spongebob Squarepants. The best thing for me to do is just not watch horror movies. Sometimes, I try to be courageous and I make myself go to a big, exciting release (like Hereditary) or my daughter peer pressures me into watching something (like Midsommar) and I always regret it. This book explains the whole movie for weenies like me who refuse to watch it. Weirdly enough, I have seen over half of the movies in this book, but I only enjoyed the experience for like 10 of those. Ha!
..
I refused to watch several of the movies
..
I saw and hated myself afterward two of the movies
I loved Emily's plot summaries, asides, and personal anecdotes. It was like talking about scary movies with a best friend. Plus I tucked away all the fun facts and things I would have never known if I hadn't read this book. So much to learn here!
Final Recommendation: Even though this book is supposed to be for scaredy cats and weenies, I think horror movie buffs will enjoy Emily's commentary, fun facts & trivia, and all the jokes and asides. A great bedside or coffee table book. Makes a great gift for cinephiles.
Comps: 101 Horror Books to Read Before You're Murdered by (me), Paperbacks From Hell by Grady Hendrix, and Necessary Death: What Horror Movies Teach Us about Navigating the Human Experience by Preston Fassel and Chris Grosso
July 26, 2025
This was a ton of fun. I highly recommend it for anyone interested in the Horror genre. Whether you're a long-time fan, or someone just dipping your toes into the Horror pool, there's so much to learn and enjoy here.
It does spoil every movie it discusses by telling you exactly what happens, but that's the point. The premise behind the book is that it's written for people who are too scared to watch Horror movies, but don't want to miss out on all the great cultural significance happening in those works.
I had watched all the movies discussed, so it wasn't an issue for me, but I felt it was worth mentioning. Also, I feel like it's formatted in such a way that if it gets to a movie you don't want spoiled for you, you can easily skip that chapter and return to it after you've watched.
Horror is my favorite genre and I do enjoy checking out nonfiction on the topic of its creation, history and nuances. I appreciated the humor the author had with this. It made it so engaging and quick to get through.
I also loved how each chapter covered an influential movie, and at the end of that chapter, the author would give a few book recs for people who either enjoyed the movie, or enjoy the types of themes and tropes explored within the movie.
Overall, this is a great reference guide and resource for people who want to know more about the complex and oft misunderstood genre of Horror.
Thank you to the publisher, Tantor Audio, for providing me a copy to read and review. The narration was fantastic and made me feel like I was sitting with narrator having a chat. A fun way to pass the weekend for Horror junkies!
It does spoil every movie it discusses by telling you exactly what happens, but that's the point. The premise behind the book is that it's written for people who are too scared to watch Horror movies, but don't want to miss out on all the great cultural significance happening in those works.
I had watched all the movies discussed, so it wasn't an issue for me, but I felt it was worth mentioning. Also, I feel like it's formatted in such a way that if it gets to a movie you don't want spoiled for you, you can easily skip that chapter and return to it after you've watched.
Horror is my favorite genre and I do enjoy checking out nonfiction on the topic of its creation, history and nuances. I appreciated the humor the author had with this. It made it so engaging and quick to get through.
I also loved how each chapter covered an influential movie, and at the end of that chapter, the author would give a few book recs for people who either enjoyed the movie, or enjoy the types of themes and tropes explored within the movie.
Overall, this is a great reference guide and resource for people who want to know more about the complex and oft misunderstood genre of Horror.
Thank you to the publisher, Tantor Audio, for providing me a copy to read and review. The narration was fantastic and made me feel like I was sitting with narrator having a chat. A fun way to pass the weekend for Horror junkies!
May 29, 2024
Star Review in the June 2024 Issue of Library Journal
Three Words That Describe this Book: expertly crafted, informative, accessible
Draft Review:
The first in a new series of “Outsider’s Guides,” from Quirk, Hughes presents a book best described as a conversation with the reader’s Horror fan bestie. Of course, Hughes cannot include every movie, so she makes it clear from the start that these are 25 influential films from three eras beginning in the 1960s up through the 2010s. However, the brilliance of the book is in how those movies are presented in seven categories: “The Basic Idea,” “You Might Actually Want to Watch If”, “But You Should Definitely Avoid If,” “Okay, Here's Exactly What Happens,” “Say This At A Party” (in dialogue bubbles), “Iconic Moments,” and finally “Can't Watch it? Read These Instead.” This structure gives Hughes the room to fully explain and frame each film, while also allowing the reader to decide when and if a specific entry is too much for them. Interspersed throughout are asides that perfectly balance humor and information such as definitions of various tropes, one-line spoilers of more movies, and a further discussion of “the bane of weenies everywhere,” the jump scare. For weenies? Definitely. But hardcore Horror fiends will also find plenty to enjoy here as well.
Verdict: As the current Horror Renaissance continues to bloom, this accessible, entertaining, and informative book will be in high demand at all public libraries but especially by those who are not as interested in feeling the fear themselves yet still want to be a part of the pop culture conversation. Pair with 101 Horror Books to Read Before You're Murdered by Sadie Hartmann to capture a similar vibe for stories in print.
Notes:
This book is somehow both succinct AND thorough. Perfectly walks the line between explaining the entire plot of terrifying movies, but without scaring the reader. And still keeps is conversational even though clearly and expert. The brilliance in this book is in the writing-- how to explain why these books are terrifying, important, influential, and an obsession of millions of viewers without scaring the reader who cannot watch them.
From the start, she makes it clear, not every movie is here. There are key, influential films from the three eras: 1960s and 70s, 1980s and 90s, 2000s and 2010s. Also NO fear rating system because what scares someone is so personal. Ground Rules set the foundation and expectations.
Each entry-- the meat of the book follows a similar pattern. How she explains and frames each film allows readers to decide at each point where is too much for them. For 25 films.
The Basic Idea: 1 sentence summary
You Might Actually Want to Watch If
But You Should Definitely Avoid If
Okay, Here's Exactly What Happens: a detailed multi-page summary of what happens but without the jump scares and gore-- told in a distanced but still conversational way. Makes it seem not that scary at all. Don't believe me? Start with The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and test your limits.
Say This At A Party-- in dialog bubbles-- my favorite addition.
Iconic Moments
Can't Watch it? Read These Instead.
I have told you most of the book and yet, I have told you nothing about what you will find inside.
Love the asides about tropes, lists of interest such as spoiling other movies with a single line or what "zombies" are actually called in zombie movies. Essays framing each major era. If you can't watch but can read-- books to try. One of my favorites is "A Taxonomy of Jump Scares"-- "the bane of weenies everywhere." I had no idea there were types of hump scares. That was fascinating and worth the price of admission.
Part of a new series by Quirk--Outsider's Guide. Can't wait for more if they are going to be this good.
Verdict: As the current Horror Renaissance continues to bloom, this accessible, entertaining, and informative book will be in high demand at all public libraries but especially by those who are not as interested in feeling the fear themselves but still want to be a part of the pop culture conversation. Pair with 101 Horror Books to Read Before You're Murdered by Sadie Hartmann to capture a similar vibe for stories in print.
I have already pre-ordered a copy to be sent to my sister-in-law's house on the day it comes out. She is very excited to finally be able to understand all of the pop culture references and connect to my love of Horror finally.
Three Words That Describe this Book: expertly crafted, informative, accessible
Draft Review:
The first in a new series of “Outsider’s Guides,” from Quirk, Hughes presents a book best described as a conversation with the reader’s Horror fan bestie. Of course, Hughes cannot include every movie, so she makes it clear from the start that these are 25 influential films from three eras beginning in the 1960s up through the 2010s. However, the brilliance of the book is in how those movies are presented in seven categories: “The Basic Idea,” “You Might Actually Want to Watch If”, “But You Should Definitely Avoid If,” “Okay, Here's Exactly What Happens,” “Say This At A Party” (in dialogue bubbles), “Iconic Moments,” and finally “Can't Watch it? Read These Instead.” This structure gives Hughes the room to fully explain and frame each film, while also allowing the reader to decide when and if a specific entry is too much for them. Interspersed throughout are asides that perfectly balance humor and information such as definitions of various tropes, one-line spoilers of more movies, and a further discussion of “the bane of weenies everywhere,” the jump scare. For weenies? Definitely. But hardcore Horror fiends will also find plenty to enjoy here as well.
Verdict: As the current Horror Renaissance continues to bloom, this accessible, entertaining, and informative book will be in high demand at all public libraries but especially by those who are not as interested in feeling the fear themselves yet still want to be a part of the pop culture conversation. Pair with 101 Horror Books to Read Before You're Murdered by Sadie Hartmann to capture a similar vibe for stories in print.
Notes:
This book is somehow both succinct AND thorough. Perfectly walks the line between explaining the entire plot of terrifying movies, but without scaring the reader. And still keeps is conversational even though clearly and expert. The brilliance in this book is in the writing-- how to explain why these books are terrifying, important, influential, and an obsession of millions of viewers without scaring the reader who cannot watch them.
From the start, she makes it clear, not every movie is here. There are key, influential films from the three eras: 1960s and 70s, 1980s and 90s, 2000s and 2010s. Also NO fear rating system because what scares someone is so personal. Ground Rules set the foundation and expectations.
Each entry-- the meat of the book follows a similar pattern. How she explains and frames each film allows readers to decide at each point where is too much for them. For 25 films.
The Basic Idea: 1 sentence summary
You Might Actually Want to Watch If
But You Should Definitely Avoid If
Okay, Here's Exactly What Happens: a detailed multi-page summary of what happens but without the jump scares and gore-- told in a distanced but still conversational way. Makes it seem not that scary at all. Don't believe me? Start with The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and test your limits.
Say This At A Party-- in dialog bubbles-- my favorite addition.
Iconic Moments
Can't Watch it? Read These Instead.
I have told you most of the book and yet, I have told you nothing about what you will find inside.
Love the asides about tropes, lists of interest such as spoiling other movies with a single line or what "zombies" are actually called in zombie movies. Essays framing each major era. If you can't watch but can read-- books to try. One of my favorites is "A Taxonomy of Jump Scares"-- "the bane of weenies everywhere." I had no idea there were types of hump scares. That was fascinating and worth the price of admission.
Part of a new series by Quirk--Outsider's Guide. Can't wait for more if they are going to be this good.
Verdict: As the current Horror Renaissance continues to bloom, this accessible, entertaining, and informative book will be in high demand at all public libraries but especially by those who are not as interested in feeling the fear themselves but still want to be a part of the pop culture conversation. Pair with 101 Horror Books to Read Before You're Murdered by Sadie Hartmann to capture a similar vibe for stories in print.
I have already pre-ordered a copy to be sent to my sister-in-law's house on the day it comes out. She is very excited to finally be able to understand all of the pop culture references and connect to my love of Horror finally.
November 4, 2024
I loved, loved this delightful, cozy little book, which I stumbled across at exactly the right time! I was a bit down in the dumps and moody lately with all the various crap going on at the micro, mezzo, and of course macro levels, and then I came down with a miserable illness to boot. I’m not proud to admit that I’m not a good sick person; though I am fairly often ill and one would think I’d get used to it, I instead maintain a stubbornly nonconstructive and terrible attitude about it and turn very morbid and grim, generally writhing around wringing my hands and bemoaning and wailing our doomed collective fates like a remorseful yet resigned Bloody Mary figure. Obviously, in such a state, I cannot read, and even when I recover enough that some reading activity again becomes realistic, obviously my lovely little lit fics won’t do, obviously even mysteries and thrillers aren’t quite strong enough stuff. Then I spot this book! - obviously, perfection for my miserable moody mood! A gift from the gods!
Why is this book so cool? Well, for one thing, I AM a horror weenie, TBH, probably even a suspense weenie. I readily (as the author calls out) seek out and read summaries of various movies and TV shows, primarily in an attempt to screen out any accidental animal death viewing, but honestly also just to diffuse any unnecessary anticipatory stress, which I do not find relaxing or escapist. I hear dreadful crime stories all week long in the course of my work, and I thus have no doubts about the horrors of which humanity and this world are capable, so I am long past the point of having the capacity for horrified wonder as a source of distraction or amusement. Instead, I’m already fully convinced things are going or will go poorly, so let’s just cut to the chase, and if things actually turn out to be better than anticipated, well then that’s just fine, but I’ll continue to loyally treasure my confirmation bias nonetheless. So let’s just have the bad news first and straight up, OK? Just give me the disaster Cliff’s Notes; I will not be surprised, and I probably could have faked my way through the exam without them anyway.
Now, the entity whose tentacles CAN still reach me and pluck me from my funk? - well-wrought, dark humor, which this book - like many talented recaps, whether in written form or on something like a podcast - offers. I have an appreciation for the interpretive recap as an entertaining literary form in general, regardless of the media or genre being recapped, and so a book of pretty perfectly executed (so to speak) horror film recaps is a real treat, especially given that the entire point of horror films is to provide an outlet for the expression and processing of existential angst and malaise regarding Self, Other, and the World such as that described in my entire second paragraph above and that has obviously become my defining malady/characteristic!
This book is also sort of Goldilocks-cozy in that it offers a just-right level of critical analysis that is not insulting to the intelligence but also remains casual and conversational - it’s not too soft, but not a too-hard scholarly book. It is about FUN self-reflection and lightening up rather than about anxiously pursuing self-improvement. And weenie status aside, I was pleasantly surprised to see that I have, (somehow?? unfortunately?), actually managed to watch 15 of the 25 films between 1960 and 2018 that were selected for profiling in this book. (Possibly 16; I may have blocked out one particularly traumatizing film and truly cannot recall whether I have viewed it in real life or only in dreams.) I equally enjoyed all the summaries and commentary whether I have previously seen the film or not. I love this book for making it accessible for jaded weenies like myself to explore or revisit these important cultural texts that reflect and illuminate our tragic societal and psychological state of affairs!
I’ll end with one last comment about my reading of horror: except for recaps, I don’t. The last horror book I clawed my way through several years ago, I finished it resentful and spent and left a pretty scathing review that reflected, as reader reviews are wont to do, my own personal experience and opinion. Unfortunately, the book was by an author with some following, and so some of these Goodreads villagers immediately swarmed with their flaming torches to inform me without mercy of what a stupid, rude, gutless etc. loser I was. Perhaps I am gutless, but as life is already stressful and messy enough, I deleted my review (along with my other more savage negative reviews), changed my privacy settings, and I have neither written any blazing negative reviews nor read any horror since, nor honestly wanted much to hang and chat with readers who do. But whether they are filmed or written, my problem was never, ever doubting the importance of horror texts, and so I’m grateful this book provided a collegial and supportive means of re-engaging with this genre that I appreciate despite myself.
Why is this book so cool? Well, for one thing, I AM a horror weenie, TBH, probably even a suspense weenie. I readily (as the author calls out) seek out and read summaries of various movies and TV shows, primarily in an attempt to screen out any accidental animal death viewing, but honestly also just to diffuse any unnecessary anticipatory stress, which I do not find relaxing or escapist. I hear dreadful crime stories all week long in the course of my work, and I thus have no doubts about the horrors of which humanity and this world are capable, so I am long past the point of having the capacity for horrified wonder as a source of distraction or amusement. Instead, I’m already fully convinced things are going or will go poorly, so let’s just cut to the chase, and if things actually turn out to be better than anticipated, well then that’s just fine, but I’ll continue to loyally treasure my confirmation bias nonetheless. So let’s just have the bad news first and straight up, OK? Just give me the disaster Cliff’s Notes; I will not be surprised, and I probably could have faked my way through the exam without them anyway.
Now, the entity whose tentacles CAN still reach me and pluck me from my funk? - well-wrought, dark humor, which this book - like many talented recaps, whether in written form or on something like a podcast - offers. I have an appreciation for the interpretive recap as an entertaining literary form in general, regardless of the media or genre being recapped, and so a book of pretty perfectly executed (so to speak) horror film recaps is a real treat, especially given that the entire point of horror films is to provide an outlet for the expression and processing of existential angst and malaise regarding Self, Other, and the World such as that described in my entire second paragraph above and that has obviously become my defining malady/characteristic!
This book is also sort of Goldilocks-cozy in that it offers a just-right level of critical analysis that is not insulting to the intelligence but also remains casual and conversational - it’s not too soft, but not a too-hard scholarly book. It is about FUN self-reflection and lightening up rather than about anxiously pursuing self-improvement. And weenie status aside, I was pleasantly surprised to see that I have, (somehow?? unfortunately?), actually managed to watch 15 of the 25 films between 1960 and 2018 that were selected for profiling in this book. (Possibly 16; I may have blocked out one particularly traumatizing film and truly cannot recall whether I have viewed it in real life or only in dreams.) I equally enjoyed all the summaries and commentary whether I have previously seen the film or not. I love this book for making it accessible for jaded weenies like myself to explore or revisit these important cultural texts that reflect and illuminate our tragic societal and psychological state of affairs!
I’ll end with one last comment about my reading of horror: except for recaps, I don’t. The last horror book I clawed my way through several years ago, I finished it resentful and spent and left a pretty scathing review that reflected, as reader reviews are wont to do, my own personal experience and opinion. Unfortunately, the book was by an author with some following, and so some of these Goodreads villagers immediately swarmed with their flaming torches to inform me without mercy of what a stupid, rude, gutless etc. loser I was. Perhaps I am gutless, but as life is already stressful and messy enough, I deleted my review (along with my other more savage negative reviews), changed my privacy settings, and I have neither written any blazing negative reviews nor read any horror since, nor honestly wanted much to hang and chat with readers who do. But whether they are filmed or written, my problem was never, ever doubting the importance of horror texts, and so I’m grateful this book provided a collegial and supportive means of re-engaging with this genre that I appreciate despite myself.
July 11, 2024
I am a certified weenie. Everything is too scary for me. Forget Stephen King; I was terrified by the giant robot spider in Jonny Quest when I was 5. (Check it out on YouTube, and you’ll see what I mean. Shudder! I’m 66, and it still freaks me out a bit.)
So I was absolutely the target audience for this book. And, to my amazement, author Emily C. Hughes is so right! Reading what happens in a scary movie is tolerable, even if watching the movie would give me nightmares and sleepless nights for a week. Who would have thunk it? And Hughes generously provides pointers on what to say when others discuss these movies that have become staples of pop culture and receive homages in other films. Thanks to Hughes, I won’t have to miss pop-culture references anymore. In addition, Hughes’ humorous and sarcastic commentary on seven decades of horror movies will please readers, whether weenies or hard-core.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Quirk Books in exchange for an honest review.
So I was absolutely the target audience for this book. And, to my amazement, author Emily C. Hughes is so right! Reading what happens in a scary movie is tolerable, even if watching the movie would give me nightmares and sleepless nights for a week. Who would have thunk it? And Hughes generously provides pointers on what to say when others discuss these movies that have become staples of pop culture and receive homages in other films. Thanks to Hughes, I won’t have to miss pop-culture references anymore. In addition, Hughes’ humorous and sarcastic commentary on seven decades of horror movies will please readers, whether weenies or hard-core.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Quirk Books in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Quirk Books for the audiobook ARC! Cassidy Brown did a nice job, handling the author’s humor well.
This was a unique read for me. The kind that stuck out to me the entire time. It is a nonfiction book, about many horror movies that are originally books. So… a book about film based off a book. I don’t know, maybe that’s not that special/weird.
For me, the ones I appreciated listening to the most, were the ones I’ve seen before (and some I’ve even read). They are: Psycho, The Exorcist, Halloween, The Shining, The Thing, Candyman, Scream, The Blair Witch Project, The Ring, 28 Days Later, Saw, The Conjuring, It Follows, Get Out, and Hereditary. While the majority here may not be based off books, there is a slew of unmentioned goodies throughout that are, and are equally worth checking out I’m sure. I enjoyed these because it was nice to hear someone else’s take aways and thoughts on things I don’t get to discuss much.
As somewhat of a newbie to horror myself, it was interesting to read someone else’s journey through finding horror later in life. And no spoilers, but it was equally interesting to find out which of the FanFi/FearForAll crew were also Weenies! I used to not even stay in the room if someone else had something scary on, and what counted as scary was shockingly mild compared to now.
The author runs the reader through each film almost like giving a synopsis, then discusses why they found it an important inclusion, and then explains some interesting tidbits that they say you could use at a party with diehard fans. I took this as more wit, because honestly I wouldn’t go toe to toe with any facts on something that was someone else’s favorite. Not me at least.
My favorite part was the author discussing what impact the choices had on horror as a whole. Why it was a hit, or flop, and how it impacted the horror industry. Not everyone may agree with the choices made, but for me, there’s a whole new set on movies on my to-watch list now.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-horror...
This was a unique read for me. The kind that stuck out to me the entire time. It is a nonfiction book, about many horror movies that are originally books. So… a book about film based off a book. I don’t know, maybe that’s not that special/weird.
For me, the ones I appreciated listening to the most, were the ones I’ve seen before (and some I’ve even read). They are: Psycho, The Exorcist, Halloween, The Shining, The Thing, Candyman, Scream, The Blair Witch Project, The Ring, 28 Days Later, Saw, The Conjuring, It Follows, Get Out, and Hereditary. While the majority here may not be based off books, there is a slew of unmentioned goodies throughout that are, and are equally worth checking out I’m sure. I enjoyed these because it was nice to hear someone else’s take aways and thoughts on things I don’t get to discuss much.
As somewhat of a newbie to horror myself, it was interesting to read someone else’s journey through finding horror later in life. And no spoilers, but it was equally interesting to find out which of the FanFi/FearForAll crew were also Weenies! I used to not even stay in the room if someone else had something scary on, and what counted as scary was shockingly mild compared to now.
The author runs the reader through each film almost like giving a synopsis, then discusses why they found it an important inclusion, and then explains some interesting tidbits that they say you could use at a party with diehard fans. I took this as more wit, because honestly I wouldn’t go toe to toe with any facts on something that was someone else’s favorite. Not me at least.
My favorite part was the author discussing what impact the choices had on horror as a whole. Why it was a hit, or flop, and how it impacted the horror industry. Not everyone may agree with the choices made, but for me, there’s a whole new set on movies on my to-watch list now.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-horror...
September 13, 2024
Halloween came early this year!
So I love horror movies, right? But I struggle with gore, body horror, and I struggle to watch them alone. My husband refuses to watch them with me (unless it's the Scream series and I beg him a million times) so I'm not 100% caught up on all the hip and happening horror movies of the day.
Even though I've watched horror movies since I was a kid, at sleepovers with friends only to immediately watch a Barbie movie afterwards to calm ourselves down, I've been lacking recently.
This book was awesome! Not only did it give me interesting information to share with all my fellow movie nerds, increase my watchlist EXPONENTIALLY, it also gives book recommendations for those who can read horror, but can't watch it. Queue TBR increasing as well.
Emily C. Hughes, if you could make one of these for musicals, I would be forever in your debt. Oh, and also sci-fi's. And Christmas movies. And romance movies. And video games. And Marvel movies. And Star Wars movies. And Lord of the Rings movies. And DC movies. And - well, you get the point.
Highly recommend if you're a horror fan.
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So I love horror movies, right? But I struggle with gore, body horror, and I struggle to watch them alone. My husband refuses to watch them with me (unless it's the Scream series and I beg him a million times) so I'm not 100% caught up on all the hip and happening horror movies of the day.
Even though I've watched horror movies since I was a kid, at sleepovers with friends only to immediately watch a Barbie movie afterwards to calm ourselves down, I've been lacking recently.
This book was awesome! Not only did it give me interesting information to share with all my fellow movie nerds, increase my watchlist EXPONENTIALLY, it also gives book recommendations for those who can read horror, but can't watch it. Queue TBR increasing as well.
Emily C. Hughes, if you could make one of these for musicals, I would be forever in your debt. Oh, and also sci-fi's. And Christmas movies. And romance movies. And video games. And Marvel movies. And Star Wars movies. And Lord of the Rings movies. And DC movies. And - well, you get the point.
Highly recommend if you're a horror fan.
Connect With Me!
Blog Booksta Youtube
October 9, 2024
This might be my favorite nonfiction book of 2024. Definitely top 3. I read this because:
1. I am a weenie for horror movies, so this book is for me just like the cover says.
2. I like horror anyway and am not a weenie for horror books.
3. I'm a big fan of Random Number Generator Horror Podcast No. 9, which spoils a horror movie every week.
This book was a lot of fun and despite being a weenie, I've seen a bunch of the movies discussed (which is making me question my weenie status a little). I especially liked the "Why This Matters" and book recommendation sections after each movie synopsis.
I would absolutely love future books covering other movies.
1. I am a weenie for horror movies, so this book is for me just like the cover says.
2. I like horror anyway and am not a weenie for horror books.
3. I'm a big fan of Random Number Generator Horror Podcast No. 9, which spoils a horror movie every week.
This book was a lot of fun and despite being a weenie, I've seen a bunch of the movies discussed (which is making me question my weenie status a little). I especially liked the "Why This Matters" and book recommendation sections after each movie synopsis.
I would absolutely love future books covering other movies.
January 16, 2025
The title really does perfectly capture the essence of this book! Included are detailed synopses of popular horror films along with many interesting details relating to the films and the genre. So, if you are a scaredy cat who cannot watch these sorts of movies but don't want to feel left out, this is a wonderful way to keep in the loop with those who do love a good scare.
September 4, 2024
I’m not a weenie (proudly reformed!) but I love reading smart, entertaining, funny horror commentary so I absolutely loved this book 👻
September 27, 2024
Horror For Weenies by Emily C. Hughes is perfect for seasoned horror lovers and those looking to dip their toes in the spooky waters. The book breaks down 25 horror movies, giving a hilarious and detailed walk through the plot. Hughes also adds in a few extras with each movie such as book recommendations based on the film, why the film matters, and some fun facts you can talk about at parties.
This book is great for those that can read horror but can’t watch it. It’s perfect just in case you wanna know what you’re missing out on!
Have you picked this one up yet? If not you totally should!
October 4, 2024
essa diva talvez tenha mudado minha vida pois já marquei de ver alguns dos filmes nesse livro com amigos!!!! aguardem!!! 2025 minha nova personalidade será meio-medrosa ao invés de completamente
September 5, 2024
As a definite 'weenie' when it comes to horror on film, I cannot express how much I love that this book exists! Filled with plot summaries, discussions of historical significance, and party talking points, this novel is a pretty substantive crash course on 25 of the most important horror movies in history. There's spoilers abound, but that's what makes it perfect - readers get a rundown on the horrific stories, learning about every plot twist and jump scare, without needing to actually watch a second of the film. Emily C. Hughes' wonderfully amusing writing, paired with Cassidy Brown's delightful narration, helps to take away most, if not all, fear one might experience listening to these summaries. For fellow horror *readers* like myself, each chapter ends with a list of suggested books that cover similar or related topics to the previously discussed movie, which is such a thoughtful touch. Horror can certainly be a divisive genre, so I really appreciate Hughes' efforts to share their love for the gruesome and terrifying via literature as well as film.
To wrap up and avoid any possible spoilers I'll just finish by saying, if you're not in the mood to attempt another (likely doomed) horror movie night, but still want to know what happens in the Exorcist or the Blair Witch Project, then this just might be the book for you! It's fun, it's funny, and it's informative - what more could you ask for!
Thank you to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for the audio ARC in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
To wrap up and avoid any possible spoilers I'll just finish by saying, if you're not in the mood to attempt another (likely doomed) horror movie night, but still want to know what happens in the Exorcist or the Blair Witch Project, then this just might be the book for you! It's fun, it's funny, and it's informative - what more could you ask for!
Thank you to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for the audio ARC in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
October 8, 2024
CALLING ALL WEENIES™️!!!!!! Are you tired of being left out of conversations with your super cool friends who watch a ton of horror movies???? Do you absolutely despise how poorly lit and loud those jump scare scenes are??? Or are you a horror cinema nerd who loves facts and read-a-like lists??? If any of the above sound like you, you NEED Horror for Weenies by Emily Hughes.
How was that? Was my sales pitch voice working? Perfect. In all seriousness, Emily has put together something very special with Horror for Weenies, a book that undoubtedly took an immense amount of time and effort to compile. This book showcases a broad overview of the most important horror films of the last 50ish years from Psycho to Hereditary and lots in between. Each chapter is dedicated to a film and provides a humorous yet informative synopsis, a list of read-a-likes if the film isn’t your thing to watch, and why these films are so important in pop culture.
For me, reading Horror for Weenies was a lovely experience in which I got to recall my own fond memories of discovering these films at various points in my life. It was an absolute joy to hold in my hands.
How was that? Was my sales pitch voice working? Perfect. In all seriousness, Emily has put together something very special with Horror for Weenies, a book that undoubtedly took an immense amount of time and effort to compile. This book showcases a broad overview of the most important horror films of the last 50ish years from Psycho to Hereditary and lots in between. Each chapter is dedicated to a film and provides a humorous yet informative synopsis, a list of read-a-likes if the film isn’t your thing to watch, and why these films are so important in pop culture.
For me, reading Horror for Weenies was a lovely experience in which I got to recall my own fond memories of discovering these films at various points in my life. It was an absolute joy to hold in my hands.
September 27, 2024
Although this book is intended to provide a way for horror “weenies” to experience movies they’re too scared to watch, this book is absolutely perfect for horror lovers of ANY type of media.
A complete description and overview of some of the most historical horror movies that literally changed the industry and culture of horror with fun facts about each film that were fun to learn about.
Not only was it incredibly entertaining to read through each films plot (even if I’ve already seen them), but it was also filled with so much interesting information regarding the horror film industry/culture that I had no idea about. I’m definitely leaving this book feeling smarter. The walkthroughs of each movie were humorous and entirely accurate.
My favorite part though?
At the end of each movie description there’s a list of book recommendations to read if you enjoyed the movie, or if you’re still not sure if you’re brave enough to watch it.
Love, love, loved this, and it made such a great spooky season read!
Thanks so much to Quirk books for the gifted copy!
A complete description and overview of some of the most historical horror movies that literally changed the industry and culture of horror with fun facts about each film that were fun to learn about.
Not only was it incredibly entertaining to read through each films plot (even if I’ve already seen them), but it was also filled with so much interesting information regarding the horror film industry/culture that I had no idea about. I’m definitely leaving this book feeling smarter. The walkthroughs of each movie were humorous and entirely accurate.
My favorite part though?
At the end of each movie description there’s a list of book recommendations to read if you enjoyed the movie, or if you’re still not sure if you’re brave enough to watch it.
Love, love, loved this, and it made such a great spooky season read!
Thanks so much to Quirk books for the gifted copy!
September 3, 2024
Omg this book has all the great horror flicks!! Emily has a fantastic sense of humor and her detailed descriptions on each of these movies had my laughing my face off!! I was so happy she included Babadook and Hereditary, my two favorite movies. For Hereditary she describes the beginning and then says “We are just over a half hour into the movie. It is emphatically not going to get better from here”. Truer words have never been spoken! This is a must for any weenies, I myself am a recovering weenie now I’ll watch anything! The intro she speaks of how thinking about horror is as rewarding as watching it, in my case too also reading it. There’s so much to discover in horror and Emily does an amazing job creating an incredibly entertaining look at some of the most incredible horror movies ever made!
September 8, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. Whether you're a die-hard horror movie fan or just curious about the genre, this book is a must-have. If you've already seen the films, it's a fantastic refresher filled with interesting history and fun facts. For those who aren’t familiar with horror but want to explore the genre, this book offers a great introduction.
December 16, 2024
I absolutely loved this book! Its mere existence is so perfect for me, I only wish it had come out sooner because I have already seen or read plot summaries to most of the movies explored. Even so, I got a lot out of this book. The layout was perfect, the summaries were much more detailed than what I’m used to, and the section highlighting why the movies mattered always hit for me.
I do wish there was a section for honorable mentions. The author alludes to some that didn’t make the cut and maybe it wouldn’t do them justice to water them down with an abbreviated version but I would’ve personally liked it since (as previously stated) I knew most of the films in the book already. I would’ve liked to hear about some more “underground” films.
The introduction really resonated with me. I was scarred by horror movies as a child and pretty much ignored/avoided their existence most of my life but I’m surrounded by horror fans so I get peer pressured to watch from time to time. Despite cowering behind a blanket for most of the movies, I found myself intrigued by the stories and started getting more into horror fiction. It wasn’t until recent years I’ve started really watching (and even then I will cower in anticipation of a jump scare) but it’s been worth it because some of the horror that’s come out in recent years has been amazing!
I would definitely like to read more from this author and would love to see this book spawn more like it — maybe even a whole series!
I do wish there was a section for honorable mentions. The author alludes to some that didn’t make the cut and maybe it wouldn’t do them justice to water them down with an abbreviated version but I would’ve personally liked it since (as previously stated) I knew most of the films in the book already. I would’ve liked to hear about some more “underground” films.
The introduction really resonated with me. I was scarred by horror movies as a child and pretty much ignored/avoided their existence most of my life but I’m surrounded by horror fans so I get peer pressured to watch from time to time. Despite cowering behind a blanket for most of the movies, I found myself intrigued by the stories and started getting more into horror fiction. It wasn’t until recent years I’ve started really watching (and even then I will cower in anticipation of a jump scare) but it’s been worth it because some of the horror that’s come out in recent years has been amazing!
I would definitely like to read more from this author and would love to see this book spawn more like it — maybe even a whole series!
October 5, 2024
(I received this book from the editor and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
(For those who have not read the book, take note that this review follows the exact same structure, even if it is not as interesting or enjoyable as the book itself)
·The basic idea:
Author Emily C. Hughes does a deep dive into horror movies in order for you, you weenie, not to watch them.
·You might actually want to read if:
People around you are talking about that scene from Carrie or that other chase sequence from the Chainsaw Horror Massacre and your only notion is the Simpsons’ adaptation of the aforementioned moment.
·But you should definitely avoid if:
You should not, trust me.
·Trope spotlight: the Wikipedia author
The Wikipedia author is someone whose vast knowledge of the theme (in this case, horror genre in movies and literature) makes you wonder how is this even possible. They are what our ancestors called an encyclopaedia. But in person.
·Why it matters:
Horror genre is not a niche hobby anymore. Movies like The Exorcist or Hereditary are an intrinsic part of our culture (nerdy or not), and this essay is a much-needed alternative for those who do not want to be left behind when a certain quote is said (and everybody laughs) or when the notion of a particular movie is intrinsic to what is being talked about.
·Say this at a party:
Did you that Emily C. Hughes has an amazing website called Jump Scares, where she makes lists about all the new horror books by month, makes weenie reports about movies she just watched and also rises money for local bookstores?
·Iconic moments:
I laughed out loud in some of the movie descriptions (I love comments in parenthesis, because the author’s voice really comes through), I found myself reading some of the information to my partner and I enjoyed the book so much my reaction to reaching its end was like “noooo it’s oveeer” (literally, and I do know how to use that word)
(For those who have not read the book, take note that this review follows the exact same structure, even if it is not as interesting or enjoyable as the book itself)
·The basic idea:
Author Emily C. Hughes does a deep dive into horror movies in order for you, you weenie, not to watch them.
·You might actually want to read if:
People around you are talking about that scene from Carrie or that other chase sequence from the Chainsaw Horror Massacre and your only notion is the Simpsons’ adaptation of the aforementioned moment.
·But you should definitely avoid if:
You should not, trust me.
·Trope spotlight: the Wikipedia author
The Wikipedia author is someone whose vast knowledge of the theme (in this case, horror genre in movies and literature) makes you wonder how is this even possible. They are what our ancestors called an encyclopaedia. But in person.
·Why it matters:
Horror genre is not a niche hobby anymore. Movies like The Exorcist or Hereditary are an intrinsic part of our culture (nerdy or not), and this essay is a much-needed alternative for those who do not want to be left behind when a certain quote is said (and everybody laughs) or when the notion of a particular movie is intrinsic to what is being talked about.
·Say this at a party:
Did you that Emily C. Hughes has an amazing website called Jump Scares, where she makes lists about all the new horror books by month, makes weenie reports about movies she just watched and also rises money for local bookstores?
·Iconic moments:
I laughed out loud in some of the movie descriptions (I love comments in parenthesis, because the author’s voice really comes through), I found myself reading some of the information to my partner and I enjoyed the book so much my reaction to reaching its end was like “noooo it’s oveeer” (literally, and I do know how to use that word)
July 2, 2024
I'll start by saying that this book does exactly what it claims it does--it provides the reader with detailed descriptions of horror films. However, I’m not sure that “weenies” are the target audience, as the descriptions are chock full of profanity and don’t shy away from the gruesome details. That being said, it’s definitely less gross than actually watching the films, but I wasn’t enjoying the experience very much.
My biggest complaint, however, is the author’s anti-Catholic sentiments, which clearly bleed into her commentary. From referring to the Church’s beautiful traditions and liturgies as “pageantry” to the part where she recommends viewers check out The Exorcist if you want to see a priest “get wrecked”, these extra asides were not necessary and not appreciated.
That being said, I suppose the weenie here is me, since I kept on reading, even as I realized I wasn’t enjoying myself, as I flipped through movie after movie and thought “Well, I’m glad I didn’t watch that one.” There were a few in this book that I did see (I am a horror fan, after all), but the descriptions made me question why I had liked those films so much when I saw them years ago.
TL;DR—It’s exactly what it says: detailed descriptions of horror films that don’t shy away from the details. In a way, you almost feel like you’ve seen the film, or at least, experienced enough that you could hold your own in a basic conversation. But, the author’s anti-Christian sentiments made it hard to enjoy myself.
My biggest complaint, however, is the author’s anti-Catholic sentiments, which clearly bleed into her commentary. From referring to the Church’s beautiful traditions and liturgies as “pageantry” to the part where she recommends viewers check out The Exorcist if you want to see a priest “get wrecked”, these extra asides were not necessary and not appreciated.
That being said, I suppose the weenie here is me, since I kept on reading, even as I realized I wasn’t enjoying myself, as I flipped through movie after movie and thought “Well, I’m glad I didn’t watch that one.” There were a few in this book that I did see (I am a horror fan, after all), but the descriptions made me question why I had liked those films so much when I saw them years ago.
TL;DR—It’s exactly what it says: detailed descriptions of horror films that don’t shy away from the details. In a way, you almost feel like you’ve seen the film, or at least, experienced enough that you could hold your own in a basic conversation. But, the author’s anti-Christian sentiments made it hard to enjoy myself.
September 16, 2024
In the past few years I've tried to start watching scary movies a little bit more, so this book seemed right up my alley. It takes 25 horror movies starting in 1960 up to 2018 and explains the plot and common scary movie tropes that go along with the film.
More importantly though, it explains what was going on culturally at the time and how that relates to why each film was made when it was in response to the culture. Very fascinating.
Here is a list of the movies covered:
Psycho
Night of the Living Dead
Rosemary’s Baby
The Exorcist
The Wicker Man
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre
Carrie
Halloween
The Shining
Poltergeist
The Thing
A Nightmare on Elm Street
The Fly
Hellraiser
Candyman
Scream
The Blair Witch Project
The Ring
28 Days Later
Saw
The Conjuring
The Babadook
It Follows
Get Out
Hereditary
Special thanks to NetGalley and RBMedia for a copy of the audiobook in exchange for my honest opinion. I was so intrigued by this that I went ahead and purchased my own copy of the Kindle book to have on hand for future reference.
More importantly though, it explains what was going on culturally at the time and how that relates to why each film was made when it was in response to the culture. Very fascinating.
Here is a list of the movies covered:
Psycho
Night of the Living Dead
Rosemary’s Baby
The Exorcist
The Wicker Man
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre
Carrie
Halloween
The Shining
Poltergeist
The Thing
A Nightmare on Elm Street
The Fly
Hellraiser
Candyman
Scream
The Blair Witch Project
The Ring
28 Days Later
Saw
The Conjuring
The Babadook
It Follows
Get Out
Hereditary
Special thanks to NetGalley and RBMedia for a copy of the audiobook in exchange for my honest opinion. I was so intrigued by this that I went ahead and purchased my own copy of the Kindle book to have on hand for future reference.
November 12, 2024
This book is SO MUCH FUN. I don’t know how I, a horror novel and film lover for pretty much my whole life (I’m of the generation that watched Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” video and the original “Poltergeist” when they first came to out, hence when I was too young), became a weenie about scary movies (actually, I think it happened around the time I moved to a secluded rural area), but here we are. I can do monster movies but not haunting/possession films (I still haven’t gotten up the guts to watch “Paranormal Activity”), so I’ve missed quite a bit. This compendium is a great way to take the edge off of movies you haven’t seen, but also to recap those you have. The comparable books are a great touch, as is the trivia. The only thing that would have made it better is if it had been full color with photos and stills. Definitely recommend to any horror (or wannabe horror) fan. Now maybe I’ll be able to brave watching “Hereditary.” 😬🫣
September 6, 2024
This book is something of a miracle — a treasure trove of information and insight for even the most seasoned self-proclaimed horror movie buff (like me) and simultaneously an incredibly useful guide for the more squeamish and uninitiated (as the title implies.) On every page it’s clear you’re in good hands with Emily Hughes, and I’m so happy this book exists. A must-have for horror fans and non-fans and wannabe-maybe-someday fans alike.
April 15, 2025
This book does what it promises! HfW is a pithy (and somewhat millennial but what can you do about us) survey of a core canon of highly influential American horror films from the '60s through 2018. It combines skillful summary (and when I say skillful, I mean as a chronic horror movie Wikipedia reader I am deeply grateful to Emily for actually including the parts that give the stories meaning instead of clunking along for four paragraphs of emotionless beat-hitting), light trivia, and context in the broader scope of horror cinema and American culture. Each section is relatively short but they're effectively constructed and Emily is good at picking out what matters. I say this both as someone who felt properly enlightened by the sections on movies I haven't seen, and in agreement with her work on movies I have seen (things like Psycho, Blair Witch, the Shining).
It is a crash course, not intended as deep study, but she provides (in-text and in the bibliography) plenty of sources for in-depth criticism if this book piques your interest and you want to go deeper. Cliffs Notes eat your heart out literally kind of thing.
Each movie's section also concludes with short lists of 3-5 books to check out if you're still not able to watch a horror movie but don't have a problem with the written word. I have read most of the books in her lists, so may I say that her taste is excellent? And (now I do love stephen king) she only puts stephen king on the list when the movies are based on books by stephen king. That's what we call range and discipline.
I would have enjoyed her takes on more movies, but there's a limited scope to the project that she and the publisher are mindful of and I think within those set parameters she did a really bang-up, focused job. I also would have enjoyed it if we got movies beyond 2018, but this wish is divorced from reality. Actually, I respect the decision to let movie history play out for longer before deciding, in 2024, which movies post-2018 are iconic--usually, lists that include recent things as iconic are wrong within five years. Well spotted, Emily.
I DO wish that it had a conclusion chapter following the section on Hereditary - I would have loved a round up of total thought and it does make the ending abrupt. However, this is the smallest ding.
Although this book feels on the surface like it has the potential to be one of those gimmicky things you buy and never actually read, I read it cover-to-cover, very quickly and happily, and I'm really glad I picked it up on a whim. Highly recommended to those among us who like to understand Culture and love a Scare but whose capacities (at present, before reading this book) crash out trying to experience a whole Scare in color on their TV.
Great fun!
It is a crash course, not intended as deep study, but she provides (in-text and in the bibliography) plenty of sources for in-depth criticism if this book piques your interest and you want to go deeper. Cliffs Notes eat your heart out literally kind of thing.
Each movie's section also concludes with short lists of 3-5 books to check out if you're still not able to watch a horror movie but don't have a problem with the written word. I have read most of the books in her lists, so may I say that her taste is excellent? And (now I do love stephen king) she only puts stephen king on the list when the movies are based on books by stephen king. That's what we call range and discipline.
I would have enjoyed her takes on more movies, but there's a limited scope to the project that she and the publisher are mindful of and I think within those set parameters she did a really bang-up, focused job. I also would have enjoyed it if we got movies beyond 2018, but this wish is divorced from reality. Actually, I respect the decision to let movie history play out for longer before deciding, in 2024, which movies post-2018 are iconic--usually, lists that include recent things as iconic are wrong within five years. Well spotted, Emily.
I DO wish that it had a conclusion chapter following the section on Hereditary - I would have loved a round up of total thought and it does make the ending abrupt. However, this is the smallest ding.
Although this book feels on the surface like it has the potential to be one of those gimmicky things you buy and never actually read, I read it cover-to-cover, very quickly and happily, and I'm really glad I picked it up on a whim. Highly recommended to those among us who like to understand Culture and love a Scare but whose capacities (at present, before reading this book) crash out trying to experience a whole Scare in color on their TV.
Great fun!
Read
August 23, 2025A funny little book that ought to be entertaining for horror fans and weenies alike, as the title suggests.
It breaks down iconic and influential English-language horror films from 1960 to 2018 (a decent time period breakdown for how far back "modern horror" fans would go). The majority of text goes to humorous plot summaries mostly intended for the weenies that can't watch the films, but as a fan I found myself excited to read the synopsis of these great films from someone else's perspective. It's like looking at the films through someone else's eyes, and whenever a joke was made, I was in on it.
I thought she chose a great collection of films to go over. They were each distinct and unique enough yet there was enough connections to show how the earlier films influenced the later films. The Wicker Man was probably the most niche film she covered by today's standards, but A: More people need to talk about that amazing film, ans B: It set up so well for the folk horror revival we saw in the late 2010s.
There's also a decent amount of analysis and interesting trivia that could be new and interesting for novice and veteran horror fans alike, and it will equip the average weenie for excellent talking points at social gatherings.
My favorite takeaway is the author's suggestions for other books to read that could be similar to the films she talked about. That's an area I personally have to explore more myself.
It breaks down iconic and influential English-language horror films from 1960 to 2018 (a decent time period breakdown for how far back "modern horror" fans would go). The majority of text goes to humorous plot summaries mostly intended for the weenies that can't watch the films, but as a fan I found myself excited to read the synopsis of these great films from someone else's perspective. It's like looking at the films through someone else's eyes, and whenever a joke was made, I was in on it.
I thought she chose a great collection of films to go over. They were each distinct and unique enough yet there was enough connections to show how the earlier films influenced the later films. The Wicker Man was probably the most niche film she covered by today's standards, but A: More people need to talk about that amazing film, ans B: It set up so well for the folk horror revival we saw in the late 2010s.
There's also a decent amount of analysis and interesting trivia that could be new and interesting for novice and veteran horror fans alike, and it will equip the average weenie for excellent talking points at social gatherings.
My favorite takeaway is the author's suggestions for other books to read that could be similar to the films she talked about. That's an area I personally have to explore more myself.
October 22, 2024
As a self-professed horror weenie and big scaredy-cat, this book helped me experience classic horror movies without having to spend 2 hours watching through my fingers. She recommended and reviewed horror movies made in the US from 1960 to 2018 (starting with Psycho and ending with Hereditary). Each movie had a basic premise, "watch if you like," "avoid if you don't like," a plot summary (including all the spoilers), why it's important, trope spotlights, and read-alike lists.
After chatting with a friend who is a big horror junkie, I agree with their assessment that the author should not have spoiled the endings of these classics. Simply stopping halfway through the summary would have been enough of a teaser to keep readers/listeners interested. I liked that she approached the movies chronologically, but they also could have worked by theme/trope.
At one point, the audiobook narrator said "treaser tailor" instead of "teaser trailer."
After chatting with a friend who is a big horror junkie, I agree with their assessment that the author should not have spoiled the endings of these classics. Simply stopping halfway through the summary would have been enough of a teaser to keep readers/listeners interested. I liked that she approached the movies chronologically, but they also could have worked by theme/trope.
At one point, the audiobook narrator said "treaser tailor" instead of "teaser trailer."
October 22, 2024
Great now I don’t need to see them!
October 26, 2024
fucking fantastic
February 3, 2025
5* If you love scary, you'll love this wonderful recapping of some of the best horror films of the 20th and 21st centuries; including similar book recommendations! So good!
November 1, 2025
I am, very much, the target audience. To my pleasant surprise, the author writes in such a way that I really enjoyed the subject - and only had one nightmare while reading it! (If you care to know, in this dream, my psychopath brother, who was nothing like my actual brother, tried eating two of my fingers at the dinner table while yelling “Need more beta carotene!”)
Anyway, well done, and I look forward to reading other books by this author in the future. I do not look forward to watching any horror films, but I appreciate their cultural significance more now and even made a (very) short list of movies I can be persuaded to watch.
Anyway, well done, and I look forward to reading other books by this author in the future. I do not look forward to watching any horror films, but I appreciate their cultural significance more now and even made a (very) short list of movies I can be persuaded to watch.
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