Drawn to the Dark summary

Embracing the Macabre

In Drawn to the Dark by Chris Kullstroem, we embark on a journey with the author, who has a peculiar fascination with all things dark and scary. Kullstroem, a self-proclaimed horror enthusiast, sets out to explore the world's most chilling and macabre attractions, driven by her insatiable curiosity about the darker side of human nature.

She begins her journey in Mexico, where she immerses herself in the vibrant and haunting traditions of Dia de los Muertos. Kullstroem describes the festive yet eerie atmosphere, as families gather in cemeteries, adorned with skull makeup and marigold flowers, to honor their deceased loved ones. She delves deep into the history and cultural significance of this unique celebration, highlighting the Mexicans' remarkable acceptance of death as a part of life.

Thrills and Chills

Moving on from Mexico, Kullstroem heads to New Zealand, where she experiences the country's thriving horror industry. She visits haunted houses, horror-themed amusement parks, and even a zombie survival camp. The author is intrigued by the Kiwis' fascination with the macabre, and she explores how these attractions provide a safe environment for people to confront their deepest fears.

Continuing her journey, Kullstroem then travels to Japan, a country known for its unique blend of ancient folklore and modern horror. Here, she explores the Aokigahara Forest, also known as the "Suicide Forest," and delves into the complex cultural attitudes towards death and the supernatural. She also visits the infamous "haunted" sites and learns about the country's love for ghost stories and urban legends.

Encounters with the Supernatural

Kullstroem's next destination is Transylvania, the birthplace of the legendary vampire Dracula. Here, she explores the region's rich folklore and history, visiting eerie castles and participating in vampire-themed events. She delves into the enduring appeal of vampires in popular culture and the impact of these myths on the local economy and identity.

Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she visits Austria during the Krampusnacht, a festival celebrating the demonic figure of Krampus. Kullstroem is fascinated by the locals' enthusiastic embrace of this terrifying Christmas tradition and the contrast it presents to the festive holiday season.

Reflections on Fear and Humanity

As her travels draw to a close, Kullstroem reflects on her experiences and the universal fascination with fear. She ponders on the role of horror in society, its ability to bring people together, and its potential for personal growth and empowerment. She also contemplates the thin line between fear and excitement, and how these emotions are intertwined in our collective human experience.

In conclusion, Drawn to the Dark is not just a travelogue of chilling adventures, but a deep exploration of the human relationship with fear, death, and the unknown. Kullstroem's fearless exploration of the world's darkest attractions sheds light on the universal nature of our fascination with the macabre, and the ways it connects us across cultures and continents.