Sir Alfred Joseph Hitchcock KBE (1899-1980) was an iconic and highly influential film director and producer, who pioneered many techniques in the suspense and thriller genres.
Following a very substantial career in his native Britain in both silent films and talkies, Hitchcock moved to Hollywood and became an American citizen with dual nationality in 1956, thus he also remained a British subject.
Hitchcock directed more than fifty feature films in a career which spanned six decades, from the silent film era, through the invention of sound films, and far into the era of colour films. For a complete list of his films, see Alfred Hitchcock filmography.
Hitchcock was among the most consistently recognizable directors to the general public, and was one of the most successful film directors during his lifetime. He continues to be one of the best known and most popular filmmakers of all time.
I've been a fan of Hitchcock's large collection of terror books since I was about 7 years old. So it's always a joy to find one at a book sale. This anthology was misnamed, however; most of the stories were of the murder mystery variety and not at all terror-filled. Still, it was a fun read and I could managed at least three stories before falling asleep. My favorite story was A Very Special Talent, by Margaret B. Maron, about a young married woman who knew how to take care of people who harmed her or her family.
This is a really excellent collection of short stories. The title with the word "terror" in it is a little misleading. These are more mysteries than horror. I enjoy relaxing with a short story after I have finished a novel and these are some of the best.
It may surprise some of you who know me, but the truth is, I love to be scared. Psychological suspense, supernatural spinetinglers, and the slightly unnerving are the stuff of frightfulness for me. This compilation of stories from some of the best writers in this genre, is a "delightful" departure from the usual standard fare in today's literary world. Hitchcock's collections never cease to enthrall me, and that is why I highly recommend this book.