It Came From Ohio: My Life As A Writer : Book Review

"It Came From Ohio!" is a thrilling and eerie collection of four short stories penned by the renowned author R.L. Stine. Set in his own hometown of Ohio, these tales unfold with spine-chilling and supernatural events that are sure to captivate readers of all ages. The book seamlessly blends humor, mystery, and suspense, providing a delightful read for both young and adult audiences.

The first story, "The Candy Store," follows two friends who stumble upon a newly opened candy shop with an eccentric owner. Tempted by the delectable treats, they soon discover a sinister presence lurking within the store. Stine expertly creates an atmosphere of unease, keeping readers guessing until the shocking twist ending.

In the second story, "Something's Fishy," a boy named Ronnie uncovers a bizarre creature in a nearby pond. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he finds himself facing unexpected dangers. Stine skillfully builds suspense throughout the narrative, leaving readers on the edge of their seats.

Moving on to "The Traps," two friends uncover an old abandoned house with a notorious history. Eager to explore, they soon realize they have walked into a trap set by vengeful spirits. Stine's mastery in establishing a creepy ambiance and vividly describing spine-chilling encounters within the haunted house is truly commendable.

Lastly, "The Hairy Hand" follows a young boy who receives a mysterious package containing a strange, detached hand. As he investigates its origin, he finds himself in a series of bizarre and hair-raising situations. Stine expertly strikes a balance between humor and horror in this story, creating an entertaining and chilling read.

What are readers saying?

The collection of spooky stories titled "It Came From Ohio!" by R.L. Stine has received a diverse range of feedback from readers. With an average rating of 3.62 out of 5 stars, opinions on this book set in Ohio are somewhat divided.

Some reviewers have praised the nostalgic elements and the book's ability to capture the essence of classic horror. These readers found the stories entertaining, engaging, and appreciated the balance between suspense and creepiness. They applauded Stine's writing style and his skill in crafting chilling tales. The Ohio setting added a unique flavor to the stories, which resonated positively with these reviewers. Overall, they highly recommended "It Came From Ohio!" to fans of horror and R.L. Stine's work.

On the other hand, some reviewers felt that the book fell short of their expectations. They considered the stories predictable and lacking in originality. Stine's reliance on clichés and familiar plot devices disappointed them, making the stories less enjoyable. These readers also expressed dissatisfaction with the underdeveloped and uninteresting characters. Some reviewers noted that the book seemed more suitable for a younger audience, and thus did not meet their expectations as adult readers.

In addition, some readers found the pacing of the book inconsistent. They felt that certain stories dragged on, while others felt rushed or ended abruptly. These reviewers desired more depth and complexity in the storytelling, deeming the plots too simplistic and straightforward.

Notwithstanding the mixed reviews, many readers appreciated the nostalgic and classic horror feel of "It Came From Ohio!" They commended R.L. Stine for his ability to create suspenseful and enjoyable stories. Nevertheless, others felt that the book lacked originality and depth, making it less engaging. Ultimately, readers seeking a dose of spooky tales set in Ohio may find enjoyment in this collection, but it may not fully satisfy those looking for more complex or inventive storytelling.

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