CRRL Picks: Books & Short Stories that Capture the Essence of October
As the days grow shorter, a distinct chill permeates the air, and the satisfying crunch of fallen leaves accompanies every step. October has truly arrived, ushering in a season of rich atmosphere and captivating narratives. This carefully curated collection of books and short stories endeavors to capture the multifaceted spirit of October.
Shirley Jackson's 1959 novel, "The Haunting of Hill House," opens with the chilling line: "...silence lay steadily against the wood and stone of Hill House, and whatever walked there, walked alone." This Gothic horror story follows a group of…
While written for children, “Nightmares: Poems to Trouble Your Sleep” and "The Headless Horseman Rides Tonight," by Jack Prelutsky, continue to haunt me as an adult. Each of the 12 poems in the “Headless Horseman” collection is accompanied by…
Washington Irving's "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" is the quintessential October short story. Published in 1820, its enduring popularity is no surprise, especially during the Halloween season. It perfectly captures the essence of autumn in New…
At this time of year, short stories and poems can often leave a more lasting impression than longer novels and novellas. Perhaps it's because the days are growing shorter, and as darkness descends earlier, our tolerance for the unsettling decreases.…
Ray Bradbury stands out among authors for his particular affection for October. Many of his short stories and novels vividly evoke a quintessential Midwestern autumn: the satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot, the evocative scent of smoldering…
If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, you likely know this one. "Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark," a book that either thrilled or terrified its young readers (or both!), draws heavily from folklore and urban legends. Author Alvin Schwartz crafted the…
Donna Tartt’s “The Secret History” is a thrilling mystery credited with popularizing the "dark academia" literary sub-genre. The story follows six close-knit college students, including newcomer Richard, at an upper-class Vermont college. Their…
Ray Bradbury popping up again on this list should come as no surprise. His "Something Wicked This Way Comes" is another quintessential October read. This dark fantasy novel tells the story of two thirteen-year-old boys, Jim Nightshade and Will…
No October booklist is complete without Edgar Allan Poe. His macabre tales, penned before his untimely and mysterious death in 1849, continue to haunt readers, exploring the profound depths of human sorrow and loneliness. Stories such as “The Pit…
