That time of year is upon us, the days are getting shorter and the weather more gloomy. That said, get ready for a spooky adventure with our top 10 Halloween reading list! Whether you’re a daily commuter or just in search of some thrilling reads this October, we’ve got you covered. From classic Gothic tales to modern horror, these books will make your commute a little more mysterious and a lot more fun. So, grab your coffee, settle in, and let these chilling stories transport you to another world. If you dare…
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Would this be a Halloween reading list without Dracula? Probably a rubbish one. This is the novel that introduced Count Dracula, a vampire, to the world. It tells the story of his attempt to move from Transylvania to England. Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” is a quintessential Halloween read with its gothic setting and eerie atmosphere.
Yes, it’s a book! A young girl named Coraline discovers a hidden doorway in her new home that leads to an alternate, eerie version of her life. Neil Gaiman’s “Coraline” is a dark and whimsical tale that’s entertaining and slightly unsettling, making it a fantastic Halloween choice for your commute to or from work.
“Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley:
Of course. This classic novel explores the consequences of scientific experimentation as Dr. Frankenstein creates a grotesque creature. Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is a timeless masterpiece, perfect for Halloween with its dark, gothic atmosphere and thought-provoking themes.
For a more light-hearted read (though 8-year-old me would probably disagree). A children’s book about a young boy who encounters a coven of child-hating witches and must thwart their evil plans. Roald Dahl’s “The Witches” is a lighter Halloween read with dark humour and whimsy suitable for all ages.
“The Haunting of Hill House” by Shirley Jackson:
Yes, like the TV show but don’t expect the same plot. Four individuals investigate the paranormal activities at Hill House, only to discover its sinister power. Shirley Jackson’s novel is a classic in the horror genre with an unsettling atmosphere and psychological horror.
“Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” by Robert Louis Stevenson:
This novella tells the story of Dr. Jekyll, who creates a potion that transforms him into the malevolent Mr. Hyde. Stevenson’s novella is a captivating exploration of human duality and unchecked desires, making it a suspenseful and thought-provoking Halloween read.
“The Shining” by Stephen King:
It took all my willpower not to put every Stephen King book ever on this list. The Torrance family takes care of the Overlook Hotel during the winter, and the hotel’s malevolent spirits begin to affect them. Stephen King’s “The Shining” is a psychological and supernatural horror masterpiece, a perfect Halloween read.
Indeed, it is now a Sandra Bullock film. In a post-apocalyptic world where seeing mysterious creatures drives people to madness and violence, a mother and her children must make a treacherous journey blindfolded. Josh Malerman’s “Bird Box” is a suspenseful and chilling thriller that’s perfect for Halloween, offering a unique take on the horror genre.
“The Girl with All the Gifts” by M.R. Carey:
In a world plagued by a fungal infection turning people into flesh-eating zombies, a group of survivors, including a unique young girl, embark on a perilous journey for survival. M.R. Carey’s novel offers a fresh and compelling perspective on the zombie apocalypse, with an engaging plot and memorable characters, making it an excellent Halloween choice.
“Mexican Gothic” by Silvia Moreno-Garcia:
Set in 1950s Mexico, a young woman is sent to a creepy mansion to investigate her cousin’s disturbing behaviour and encounters dark secrets and supernatural forces. Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s “Mexican Gothic” is a modern Gothic horror novel that combines historical and supernatural elements, creating a truly captivating Halloween read for those moody mornings and eerie evenings.
