Halloween is kind of a big deal in my family. Or, I should say, my husband loves Halloween, my kids have caught the bug and I’m basically along for the ride. (And maybe for the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, but I digress.)
But while dreaming up the perfect costume is not my strong suit, I love reading anything that’s spooky. So if you’re looking for a good read that’s holiday appropriate, here’s a trio of choices:
“The Historian” by Elizabeth Kostova – Vlad Tepes, the bloodthirsty prince of Wallachia who ultimately influenced Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”, is a historical figure. But Kostova’s book goes beyond that and imagines a world where a group of scholars are tracking the historical Dracula, who just happens to still be alive.
“‘Salem’s Lot” by Stephen King – My love for Stephen King is pretty well documented, but this is a book that I revisit on a yearly basis. Again, a story that’s told in the vampire tradition, but this 1975 novel only hints at King’s brilliance in storytelling.
“Wait Till Helen Comes” by Mary Downing Hahn – OK, so disclosure on this one. When I dropped my eldest off at preschool this AM, I had three books all lined up in my head for suggestions. When I sat down to write this blog post, the third choice disappeared into the ether. So, I went to Goodreads and looked through some of their suggestions. And I’m glad I did – I had forgotten about Ms. Hahn’s book for middle schoolers. This book terrified me when I was a kid (it was published in 1986.) I think I’m going to need to dig up my copy again.
Happy reading! And Happy Halloween!
michellekubitz 