Paperbacks from Hell summary

The Rise of Horror Paperbacks

In Paperbacks from Hell, Grady Hendrix takes us on a thrilling journey through the history of horror paperbacks. He begins by tracing the genre's roots in the 1960s, when publishers like Lancer and Belmont began to churn out cheap, luridly-covered paperbacks. These books, often dismissed as "pulp fiction," were a crucial platform for horror writers to experiment with new, boundary-pushing ideas.

Hendrix also delves into the cultural context of this period, explaining how societal upheavals and technological advancements played a crucial role in shaping the horror fiction of the time. The Vietnam War, the sexual revolution, and the rise of feminism all found their way into the plots and themes of these novels, making them more than just cheap thrills.

The Golden Age of Horror

As we move into the 1970s, Hendrix introduces us to the golden age of horror paperbacks. This was the era of the "big three": Stephen King, Dean Koontz, and Peter Straub. These authors, along with others like Anne Rice and Clive Barker, revolutionized horror fiction, transforming it from a niche genre into a mainstream phenomenon.

But it wasn't just the big names that made this period so special. Hendrix takes us through a plethora of lesser-known authors and their works, each more bizarre and inventive than the last. From killer crabs to demonic children, from haunted houses to evil dolls, these books pushed the boundaries of horror in ways that had never been seen before.

The Fall and Resurgence of Horror Paperbacks

However, by the mid-1980s, the horror paperback boom began to fizzle out. This was due to a variety of factors, including the oversaturation of the market, the rise of video nasties, and the decline of independent bookstores. Many of the authors who had once thrived in this environment found themselves struggling to adapt to the changing landscape.

But just as we think the story is over, Hendrix introduces a surprising twist. He explains how, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in these forgotten gems. Collectors and enthusiasts have begun to scour used bookstores and online marketplaces, searching for these out-of-print treasures. And as a result, many of these long-lost novels are now being republished, finding a new audience among horror fans.

The Legacy of Horror Paperbacks

In the final part of Paperbacks from Hell, Hendrix reflects on the lasting impact of these books. He argues that, despite their often trashy covers and sensationalist plots, they played a crucial role in shaping the horror genre as we know it today. Their influence can be seen in everything from blockbuster movies to critically acclaimed novels, proving that there's more to them than meets the eye.

In conclusion, Paperbacks from Hell is a loving tribute to a bygone era of horror fiction. Hendrix's infectious enthusiasm and encyclopedic knowledge make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the genre. And who knows, after reading it, you might just find yourself hunting for some of these forgotten classics.