Today is Campfire Day, a holiday created to celebrate the cozy flame that we light when embracing the outdoors. And what is a campfire without some spooky stories? So grab a warm blanket, eat some tasty s’mores, and pick your next horror novel!
The Shining by Stephen King
We’ll start this list with a classic that never fails to give actual chills. The Shining is about the Torrance family and their experience living within the walls of the Overlook Hotel. Follow as they each become victims to the paranormal building, and the toll it takes on their unstable trio.
Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
Maurier’s popular novel tells the story of an unnamed protagonist who becomes involved with the rich and well-known Maxim de Winter, only to discover too late that she’s in for a rollercoaster ride. From the creepy housemaid Mrs. Danvers to her husband’s pressures to fit in, our protagonist finds herself living in the shadows of Maxim’s dead ex-wife, Rebecca.
The Troop by Nick Cutter
Want to constantly feel sick to your stomach? The Troop is right for you! Think of this novel as Lord of the Flies meets gore. After a stranger with a parasite kills their unit leader, a group of boy scouts must survive the wild and whatever danger lies among it. Even if risking each other’s lives.
Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark by Alvin Schwartz and Stephen Gammell
If you’re celebrating Campfire Day with a younger audience, this collection of short stories is a great read-aloud choice. Especially with Gammell’s detailed illustrations, Schwartz’s monsters are brought so close to real life that everyone is sure to get goosebumps. It’s a timeless thrill that can even be followed by the creepily accurate 2018 film adaptation.
We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver
This story focuses on a mother and her son, Kevin, who has been strange since the moment he was born. At first, she assumed their relationship just wasn’t your typical parent-child. However, as he grows older and begins to show his true colors, she’s frightened by the monster she sees. And what to do now, or is it too late?