"On Writing Horror" by Mort Castle is an essential guide for those looking to master the art of crafting terrifying stories. Drawing from his own successful career as a horror writer and his experience as an instructor, Castle offers invaluable insights and advice for aspiring authors.
The book starts by sharing Castle's personal journey into the genre, providing readers with a glimpse into his own influences and experiences. From there, he delves into the mechanics of horror writing, exploring crucial elements such as plot development, characterization, and setting the right atmosphere. Castle emphasizes the significance of tapping into primal fears to create truly chilling narratives.
One of the standout features of "On Writing Horror" is Castle's inclusion of interviews with esteemed authors like Stephen King and Ray Bradbury. These conversations offer readers a unique opportunity to gain insight into the creative processes and inspirations of some of the biggest names in the genre. Castle also delves into various subgenres within horror, such as supernatural horror, psychological horror, and splatterpunk, providing a comprehensive understanding of the genre's diverse landscape.
Available on Audible
In addition to the craft of writing, Castle also explores the business side of the industry. For aspiring authors, he offers practical advice on finding literary agents, submitting manuscripts, and building a successful writing career. Castle's candid and practical tips make this book an invaluable resource for navigating the publishing industry.
"On Writing Horror" is a must-read for both aspiring and established authors alike. Castle's wealth of experience and insightful guidance make this book an indispensable tool for honing one's horror writing skills. Whether you are new to the genre or a seasoned writer looking to delve deeper, this comprehensive guide is sure to inspire and educate.
What are readers saying?
Mort Castle's book, "On Writing Horror," has garnered a range of reactions from readers. Some have found Castle's advice and expertise on the horror genre to be beneficial and informative, particularly for aspiring horror writers. These readers appreciate the insights he offers on developing memorable characters, crafting suspenseful plots, and invoking fear, believing that such guidance can greatly enhance their writing skills. Furthermore, they find value in the inclusion of interviews with successful horror writers, as it grants them a unique perspective and valuable advice from established authors in the field.
However, not all readers have been completely satisfied with Castle's book. Some feel that it falls short of their expectations, citing a lack of depth in his explanations. They desire more detailed examples and practical exercises to aid in their learning process, suggesting that the book serves more as a general overview of the horror genre rather than a comprehensive guide to writing within it. Moreover, a few reviewers criticize Castle for devoting too much attention to his personal experiences and achievements, rather than providing more practical advice.
The organization of the book is also a point of contention among readers. Some find the structure to be confusing, as chapters often transition abruptly between topics, lacking a clear flow. This creates difficulties in following along and retaining information. However, there are reviewers who appreciate the diverse range of topics covered in each chapter, as it provides a broader understanding of the horror genre.
Nevertheless, one aspect of the book that consistently receives praise is Castle's writing style. Readers find his prose engaging and enjoyable, making "On Writing Horror" an enticing and compelling read. Castle's passion for the horror genre is palpable through his writing, captivating and inspiring readers, even if they do not aspire to become horror writers themselves.
Despite the mixed reviews, "On Writing Horror" by Mort Castle remains an intriguing read for those interested in the genre. Castle's evident passion for horror and his extensive experience in the field continue to captivate readers, even though some may find the book lacking in depth and structure.
HorrorWriting AuthorsOfHorror HorrorGenre