|
|
NOTE: THIS PAGE DOESN'T HAVE A BACK BUTTON YET. USE
THE BACK BUTTON ON YOUR BROWSER.
REVIEWS:
MIXED REVIEWS
by
Sharida Rizzuto
From Mixed Bag #10:
ZINES:
Bellowing Ark
P.O. Box 45637
Seattle, WA 98145
Robert R. Ward, Ed.
Newsprint
Bi-monthly 32 pp.
The publication's emphasis is one that views the human condition as working
toward something better. It's inspirational without being religious.
Nothing judgmental. It leaves the reader with a sense of well-being.
The editor maintains an interesting selection of talented contributors from
diverse backgrounds. Published for several years. Available through
subscription. Highly recommended.
Blue Mesa Review
Dept. Of English
Univ. Of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM 87131
David Johnson, Ed.
Each issue is theme-related. This reviewer received a copy of issue
7--Mythic Southwest. It contains a large selection of essays, reviews,
poetry, fiction, and photographs. More than fifty contributors are
included. It shows the truly multi-cultural nature of the U. S.'s southwest
region. Nicely done. Available through some bookstores and by
subscription. Highly recommended.
Cincinnati Poetry
Review
Humanities Dept.
College of Mount St. Joseph
Cincinnati, OH 45233
Jeffrey Hillard, Ed.
Digest
Contributors each have a unique voice about life and living in Cincinnati.
Worthwhile read. Good writing. Subscription.
Recommended.
Dusty Dog
Reviews
1904-A Gadden
Gallup, NM 87301
John Pierce, Ed./Publ.
Saddle-stapled zine
3 issues yr. 16 pp.
The publication maintains an interesting array of poetry book & chapbook
reviews. It is consistently well-written. Published for several
years. Available through subscription. Highly recommended.
Factsheet Five
P.O. Box 170099
San Francisco, CA 94117
Slick cover newsprint
Quarterly
R. Seth Friedman
http://www.factsheet5.com/
This directory of zines & review zine has been published for many years.
It is practically the Bible for small press enthusiasts. Don't
be without a copy at all times! Highly recommended.
NOTE: This zine is discontinued. Check with them as you should be able to buy back issues. I understand that their website will stay on-line for now.
Fandom Directory
Fandata Publications
7761 Asterella Court
Springfield, VA 22152-3133
Trade -- Large
Annually
Harry A. Hopkins, Publ.
http://members.aol.com/fandata/
This directory has been around for many years. It covers several categories
of fandom comix, horror, scifi/fantasy/adventure, mystery, movie nostalgia,
etc. It includes lists of fans, fan clubs, fanzines, bookshops &
dealers, conventions, etc. No fan should be without it!
Mystery Readers Journal--
The Journal of M ystery Readers International
P.O. Box 8116
Berkeley, CA 94707-8116
Digest
Quarterly
Janet A. Rudolph, Publ.
http://www.murderonthemenu.com/mystery/
Each issue is devoted to a different theme within the mystery genre. It
has been around for several years and has covered some extensive ground.
Articles, reviews, news, commentary, letters, etc. are included. Very
informative. Published for several years. Highly recommended.
PirateWritings--Tales of Fantasy, Mystery &
Science Fiction
53 Whitman Ave.
Islip, NY 11751
Ed McFadden, Ed.
Full size
Quarterly
It has developed quite a reputation in small press where it started out.
Now it's available through some newsstands and bookstores as well as
subscription. It always has a good selection of poetry and fiction
contributors. Published for several years. Recently this zine
was for sale so the current status is unknown. Highly recommended.
Psychotronic Video
3309 RT.97
Narrowsburg, NY 12764-6126
Michael J. Veldon, Ed.
Slick cover newsprint full size
Packed with a vast array of fascinating stuff--letters, news, reviews (books,
films, zines), articles, photos, and lots of classifieds, it offers the reader
an endless variety of reading entertainment. It's a "must" read for
fans and collectors of the horror, underground, and exploitation, etc. film
genres. Published for several years. Highly recommended.
Scavengers Newsletter
519 Ellinwood
Osage City, KS 66523-1329
Janet Fox, Publ.
Digest
Monthly
http://www.cza.com/scav1
This publication is a "must" for anyone involved or simply interested in
small press. It covers the horror, scifi/fantasy, and mystery markets.
Zine reviews and markets open to submissions are listed. Published
for several years. Highly recommended.
The Scream Factory--The Magazine of Horrors
Past, Present, and Future
Deadline Press
P. O. Box 2808
Apache Junction, AZ 85217
Bob Morrish, Peter Enfantino, John Scoleri, Eds.
Slick cover newsprint full size
This publication was discontinued but back issues are available. It
was packed with interesting and well-written articles, reviews, news, letters
column, commentary, etc. all about the horror genre. It was the kind
of zine that was everything you ever wanted or needed to know about the horror
genre. Each issue mainly centered around a particular theme. It
was an invaluable source of information for both readers and writers. It's
too bad that it was discontinued. It was a first rate publication.
Inquire about back issues soon before they all run out. Highly
recommended.
Scarlet Street
(Sherlock Holmes, other
mysteries, and horror)
247 Boulevard
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
$6.95 for a single issue or $35 for a subscription (published
bi-monthly)
http://www.scarletstreet.com/
This is an outstanding website.
Sherlock Holmes Detective
Magazine (formerly Sherlock Holmes
Gazette)
46 Purfield Dr.
Wargrave
Berkshire
RG10 8AR
UK
Peter Harkness, Publ.
Eddie Bissell, Ed.
Slick cover full size
Quarterly
http://www.sherlock-holmes.com
A "must" for any serious aficionado of Sherlock Holmes. It contains
an interesting selection of articles, reviews, interviews, commentary, artwork,
photos, and classifieds. It's highly informative and entertaining.
Available at some newsstands, bookstores, and by subscription. Published
for several years. Highly recommended.
The Strand Magazine
(Classic Mysteries--Sherlock Holmes Pastiches--Articles--Book
Reviews)
P.O. Box 1418
Birmingham, MI 48012-1418
Slick cover full size
Quarterly
strandmag@worldnet.att.net
A new outstanding publication for the mystery enthusiast. Highly
recommended.
Strange Magazine
P.O. Box 2246
Rockville, MD 20847
Mark Chorvinsky, Ed.
Slick cover full size
http://www.strangemag.com/
Devoted to the paranormal. Fascinating and informative. Lots of articles,
reviews, news, photos, etc. Good research. Published for several
years. Available at some newsstands and bookstores plus by subscription.
Recommended.
World Of Fantasy &
Horror (originally Weird
Tales)
Terminus Publishing Co., Inc.
123 Crooked Lane
King of Prussia, PA 19406-2570
George H. Scithers, Publ.
Parrell Schweitzer, Ed.
Slick cover & newsprint
Irregular schedule
The publication has a long standing reputation for quality writings (articles,
reviews, interviews, poetry, fiction, and art). It includes some of
the best writers and artists in the horror and fantasy genres. Unfortunately,
they have experienced financial and scheduling difficulties for several years.
Luckily, they have managed to maintain the publication. It's
a worthwhile read. Check it out. It's available at some newsstands
and bookstores plus by subscription. Highly recommended.
Publishers:
Bay Press
115 West Denny Way
Seattle, WA 98119-4205
Their books are devoted to contemporary culture. An outstanding selection
of books. Highly recommended.
Some of their books:
But Is It Art? The Spirit of Art as Activism
ed. by Nina Felshin
If You Lived Here. . . .The City in Art, Theory, and
Social Activism--Discussions in Contemporary Culture #6--A
project by Martha Rosler & ed. by Brian Wallis
Uncontrollable Bodies--Testimonies of Identity and
Culture ed. by Rodney Sappington & Tyler Stallings
Violent Persuasions--The Politics and Imagery of
Terrorism ed. by David J. Brown & Robert Merrill
Calabash Press
P.O. Box 1360
Ashcroft, British Columbia
Canada VOK 1A0
ashtree@ash-tree.bc.ca
http://www.ash-tree.bc.ca/calabash.html
One of best Sherlock Holmes publishers. Outstanding. A "MUST"
for any Sherlockian. Highly recommended.
Chelsea Green
Publishing
Route 113/P.O. Box 130
Post Mills, VT 05058-0130
http://www.chelseagreen.com/
This publisher's selection of books is about how to live frugally and
environmentally safe. Their books will teach anyone how to be
self-sufficient. Worthwhile endeavor. Highly recommended.
Some of their books:
Beyond The Limits--Confronting Global Collapse, Envisioning
A Sustainable Future by Donella H. Meadows, Dennis L. Meadows,
& Jorgen Randers
The Complete Gardener's Almanac--A Month by Month Guide
to Successful Gardening by Marjorie Willison
The Independent Home--Living Well with Power from the
Sun, Wind, and Water by Michael Potts
The Solar Electric House--Energy for the
Environmentally-Responsive, Energy-Independent Home by Steven
J. Strong
Coffee House Press
27 North Fourth St., Suite 400
Minneapolis, M N 55401
Allan Kornblum, Publ.
http://coffeehousepress.org
Their selection of books is about the diversity of people living in America
and their lives. A thoroughly multi-cultural experience. Books
that are a "MUST" read for the well-rounded reader. Even their catalogue
is interesting reading. Highly recommended.
Some of their books:
Avalanche (poetry) by Quincy Troupe
Can't Be Wrong (poetry) by Michael Lally
Her Wild American Self (stories) by M. Evelina
Galang
The Ivory Crocodile by Eileen Drew
The Worldwide Church of the Handicapped
by Marie Sheppard Williams
DUSTBOOKS
P. O. Box 100
Paradise, CA 95967
Len Fulton, Publ.
http://www.dustbooks.com/
Publishes The International Directory of Little Magazines
And Small Presses, Directory of Poetry Publishers, Directory of Editors &
Publishers, Small Press Magazine Review, etc. A "MUST"
for anyone involved in small press.
PINEAPPLE
PRESS
P.O. Box 3899
Sarasota. FL 34230-3899
info@pineapplepress.com
http://www.pineapplepress.com
Outstanding publisher of books about Florida.
Unique! Highly recommeded.
Some of their books:
Florida's Past Vol.1, 2, & 3
by Gene Burnett
The Florida Chronicles, Vol 1: Dreamers,
Schemers and Scalawags by Stuart B.
McIver
& Vol. 2: Murder in the
Tropics
Guide to Florida Lighthouses by Elinor
De Wire
The Florida Reader Visions of
Paradise by Maurice O'Sullivan & Jack Lane,
Eds.
Twenty Florida Pirates by Kevin M.
McCarthy
The Florida Keys Vol. 1 & 2:
A History of the Pioneers & True Stories of the Perilous
Straits by John Viele
Mystery in the Sunshine State by
Stuart Kaminsky, Ed.
Ghosts of St. Augustine by Dave
Lapham
SUN & MOON
PRESS
http://www.sunmoon.com/
Impressive small press publisher. Some unusual stuff here. Store
located in Los Angeles.
Women Publishers:
(All of these publishers have a fine selection of books. This
reviewer had the opportunity to read many of them.)
Circlet
Press
1770 Massachusetts Ave., Suite 278
Cambridge, MA 02140
http://www.circlet.com/circlet/home.html
Specializing in lesbian & gay fiction, etc.
Some of their books:
Cherished Blood--Vampire Erotica ed. by
Cecilia Tan
The NEW Worlds of Women ed. by Cecilia
Tan
Things Invisible to See--Gay & Lesbian Tales of
Magic Realism ed. by Lawrence Schimel
Fetish Fantastic--Tales of power and lust from futuristic
to surreal ed. by Cecilia Tan
Cleis Press
P.O. Box 14684
San Francisco, CA 94114
Specializing in sexual politics, lesbian & gay studies, fiction, Latin
America, health, young adult & children. Highly recommended.
Some of their books:
Dark Angels ed. by Pam Keesey
Daughters of Darkness ed. by Pam Keesey
Madonnarama: Essays on Sex and Popular
Culture ed. by Lisa Frank & Paul Smith
Sexwise by Susie Bright
Lavender Crystal
Press
P.O. Box 8932
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Specializing in lesbian studies.
Some of their books:
Torch To The Heart--Anthology of Lesbian Art And
Drama ed. by Sue McConnell
New Victoria Publishers, Inc.
P.O. Box 27
Norwich, VT 05055-0027
http://www.opendoor.com/NewVic/
Lesbian studies, fiction, etc.
Some of their books:
Give My Secrets Back--An Alison Kaine
Mystery by Kate Allen
Murder Is Material--A Brigid Donovan
Mystery by Karen Saum
Paper-Mache
Press
135 Aviation Way #14
WAtsonville, CA 95076
http://readersndex.com/papiermache/
Women's issues and aging gracefully. An outstanding array of books.
Highly recommended.
Some of their books:
The Adventures of Stout Mama by Sibyl
James
A Question of Balance by Judith Pierce
Rosenberg
Creek Walk And Other Stories by Molly
Giles
When I Am Old I Shall Wear Purple by Sandra
Haldeman Martz
Rainbow Books, Inc.
P.O. Box 430
Highland City, FL 33846-0430
This reviewer was sent a copy of Pharmacology Is
Murder by Dirk Wyle. There was no information regarding
their other published books. However, if this book is any indication
of the caliber of books they have to offer their books should be a good
read.
Second Story
Press
720 Bathurst St.
Suite 301
Toronto, Canada M 5S 2R4
Lesbian and women's issues, mysteries, etc.
Some of their books:
Double Negative by Leona Gom
Sudden Blow by Liz Brady
Seal Press
3131 Western Ave., Suite 410
Seattle, WA 98121-1028
http://www.sealpress.com/
Lesbian studies, self-help, sports, outdoors, women's issues, fiction &
poetry. Highly recommended.
Some of their books:
Glory Days by Rosie Scott
Ladies Night by Elizabeth Bowers
Murder In The Collective by Barbara Wilson
Trouble In Transylvania by Barbara Wilson
Spinsters
Ink
32 E. First St. #330
Duluth, MN 55802-2002
http://www.spinsters-ink.com/
Lesbian studies, women's issues, fiction, etc. Highly recommended.
Some of their books:
Conferences Are Murder by Val McDermid
Final Rest by Mary Marell
The Hangdog Hustle by Elizabeth Pincus
Silent Words by Joan M. McRain
SMALL PRESS BOOK
DISTRIBUTORS:
SPD BOOKS
1341 Seventh Street
Berkeley, CA 94710
http://www.spdbooks.org
This group has been around since 1969. Anyone in small press needing
a good distributor these people seem very relieable. They do an outstanding
job to distribute a large variety of alternative books.
ON-LINE:
The Caribbean Writer
http://www.uvi.edu/CaribbeanWriter/
An extremely well done on-line university literary publication for Caribbean
based writers or anyone interested in reading and learning more about the
Caribbean. Lots to read here. Highly recommended.
Poets & Writers
http://www.pw.org
Everything to do with writers and writing at this site. This is undoubtedly
one of the best, if not the best, writers' publication on this planet!
It's available on-line and in print.
Storymania.com
http://www.storymania.com
This is a great website for the new writer starting out. Anyone can
place their writings on-line to be critiqued by readers and/or other writers.
Many of the writings are amazingly well-written. There is a lot
for visitors to the site to see. It is informative and
entertaining. An outstanding website
for writers. Highly recommended.
BLOOD
NOTES (formerly known as BLOOD
REVIEWS):
by Sharida Rizzuto & Lucinda MacGregor
From REALM OF THE VAMPIRE #1, #3, #8, #21 &
#22:
American Vampire Fans, Victims,
Practitioners
by Norine Dresser
W. W. Norton & Company: New York, 1989
Hardback & Trade Paperback
It is a terrific book for vampire fans. It tells everything there is to know about vampires and vampire fandom. There is also included an appendix of publications and organizations. This book is a welcome addition to the pop culture of the vampire.
(Note: The Vampire Journal is
discussed on pages 122 and 132-133, this zine's publisher is mentioned on
page 132, and this zine's associate editor is mentioned on pages 126-127.
We appreciate the inclusion in Ms. Dresser's book.)
Reviewed in The Vampire Journal
#5
Blood Farm
by Sam Siciliano
Pageant Books: New York, 1989
Paperback
Siciliano is off to a good start with his first novel. The particularly
bleak landscape is set in rural Iowa. The reader can experience the cold
and snow and the damp chill of the vampire's lair, an old farm mansion.
The unusual setting is coupled with a few other novel twists that make
it a different kind of a vampire story.
Reviewed in The Vampire Journal
#5
Bloodlust--Conversations With Real
Vampires
by Carol Page
Harper Collins Publishers: New York, 1991
Hardback
Carol Page approaches vampirism from a general sociological viewpoint:
how and why people become fascinated with vampires. While she does
include some historical background, her emphasis is on contemporary
practitioners. Ms. Page interviewed several interesting individuals
regarding their involvement in blood-drinking and other vampirish activities.
She exposes them at their best and at their worst.
In a lighter vein, Page devotes a chapter to the Hunt-a-Vampire Weekend she
attended that is held annually in Whitby, England by the Dracula Society
of London. The guests are there purely for entertainment. They
view vampire films and discuss vampire literature. They also play games,
hold a costume contest, and take a walking tour of the historic sites which
relate to Bram Stoker's Dracula. The idea is to eat, drink, and be
merry. No kinky stuff there.
Reviewed in Realm of The
Vampire#1
The Complete Vampire
Legend and Lore of The Living Dead
Companion
by Rosemary Ellen Guiley
MacMillian: New York, 1994
Trade Paperback
The book contains extensive information about vampires in literature plus
film, television, music, and fandom. It also contains a section devoted to
the legendary vampire as well as the contemporary kind. This is a
well-written book that is classy, informative, and entertaining.
Reviewed in Realm of The
Vampire#3
Dracula the Novel & The
Legend
A Study of Bram Stoker's Gothic Masterpiece
by Clive Leatherdale
The Aquarian Press: London, 1985
Trade Paperback
The author presents a thorough background of the vampire in history and
legend including Vlad Dracula. He includes the many symbolic
interpretations attached to Dracula, Stoker, and vampires in general. He
covers the sexual, political, religious, sociological, and psychological
aspects of Dracula and vampirism. Leatherdale does not miss
much.
Reviewed in
Realm of The
Vampire#1
Dracula The Vampire and The
Critics
ed. by Margaret L. Carter
UMI Research Press: Michigan, 1988
Hardback
This is a fascinating study for aficionados of Bram Stoker's Dracula and
vampire lovers of all kinds. There are 21 essays included by various notable
scholars. Folklore, politics, sexuality, and Dracula as a Victorian
novel are just some of the topics covered.
Carter has edited and authored other similar works:
Curse of the Undead (Fawcett,
1970), Demon Lovers and Strange
Seductions (Fawcett, 1972),
Shadow of a Shade: Vampirism in
Literature (Gordon Press, 1975),
Spector or Delusion? The Supernatural
in Gothic Fiction (UMI Research Press, 1987),
The Vampire in Literature A Critical
Bibliography (UMI Research Press, 1989), etc. (Note: We
published a vampire novelette by Ms. Carter entitled,
Payer of Tribute, 1989.)
It is a must read.
Reviewed in The Vampire Journal
#5
In Hot
Blood
by Petru Popescu
Fawcett: New York, 1989
Paperback
The setting is New Orleans with its decadent historical French Quarter,
river plantations, and swampy surroundings. Other ingredients include
an old aristocratic family and a young woman from San Francisco. She has
arrived in the Crescent City to oversee the opening of the new branch of
her popular boutique.
The "damsel in distress" is at the center of this sensuous tale of vampires
along the Mississippi. Popescu authored The Last
Wave, which was later made into a film starring Richard
Chamberlain, a strange tale involving Australia's aborigines and their Dreamtime.
However, this is his first attempt at writing in the vampire genre.
New Orleans is an extremely popular setting for many vampire novels thanks
to Anne Rice, Poppy Z. Brite, Nancy Collins, and others. Popescu's
novel contains elements akin to Anne Rice's vampire chronicles but Anne Rice
he is not. Avid vampire fans will want to read it anyway.
Reviewed in The Vampire
Journal#5
Those Who Hunt the
Night
by Barbara Hambly
Del Rey Books: New York, 1988
Hardback & Paperback
Readers of vampire novels who enjoy Anne Rice and Chelsea Quinn
Yarbro will also enjoy Ms. Hambly's book. It even has appeal for Sherlock
Holmes aficionados. However, it is not an imitation.
The story is set in Victorian London, and the hero, Prof. Asher and his wife,
are somewhat of a Holmes and Watson team. Asher is asked by London's
oldest vampire to help find the one responsible for murdering his fellow
vampires. If he doesn't find the killer his wife and he will suffer
a fate worse than death! Prof. Asher and his wife make a good team.
(Note: The long awaited sequel to this book,
Traveling With the Dead, was published
in 1995. Well done.)
Reviewed in The Vampire Journal
#5
The Thrill of Fear--250 Years of Scary
Entertainment
by Walter Kendrick
Grove Press: New York, 1991
Hardback
The author covers a broad range of material regarding the horror genre
in films and literature. A good portion of the book covers topics dear
to any vampire lover: Gothic literature (the "graveyard school" of
writing), vampires on film, the fear of death, and much, much more. A
fascinating read. Time well spent.
Reviewed in Realm of The Vampire
#2
The Vampire in Literature A Critical
Bibliography
ed. by Margaret L. Carter
UMI Research Press: Michigan, 1989
Hardback
Every poem, story, and article written in the vampire genre is probably
listed in this book. There are also several chapters devoted to the
discussion of vampire literature. Vampire enthusiasts and scholars
alike will want a copy for their reference library.
Reviewed in Realm of The Vampire
#2
Vampire Legends of Rhode
Island
by Christopher
Rondina
Covered Bridge Press, 1997
Trade Paperback
Here is a fascinating read for any vampire enthusiast interested
in vampire legends. Rondina covers the background of the alleged
vampires of late 18th through late 19th century Rhode Island with tidbits
on various vampire topics. It is interesting, entertaining, and
well-written. The production values are nicely done. A good
collector's item for vampire buffs.
Reviewed in the upcoming issue of
Realm of The
Vampire
Vampire the Complete Guide to The World of
The Undead
by Manuela Dunn Mascetti
Viking Studio Books: New York, 1992
Hardback
Ms. Mascetti covers a diverse variety of vampire legends from around
the world. Literary and historical vampires are included.
There is an astounding collection of eerie and haunting photos and drawings
which accompany the text. Overall the book has a haunting quality that stays
with the reader long after finishing it. A must for all vampire lovers
and other creatures who dwell in the darkness.
Reviewed in
Realm of The Vampire
#1
Reviewed for Realm of The Vampire
#22:
Classic Horror Writers
edited by Harold Bloom (part
of the Writers of English: Lives and Works Series)
Chelsea House Publishers: New York, 1994
Trade Paperback
It covers the works of writers Ambrose Bierce, Sheridan
LeFanu, Matthew Gregory Lewis, Edgar Allan Poe, Ann Raddiffe, Mary Shelley,
Bram Stoker and others.
The Blood Countess
by Andrei Codrescu
Dell Books: New York, 1995
Paperback
It is based on the life of the infamous human vampire, Elizabeth
Bathory, the Hungarian countess who bathed in the blood of hundreds of young
virgins to maintain her youthful appearance. The novel is full of rich
historic detail. It is a deeply disturbing tale. Codrescu is
a native of Transylvania. Who better to write about vampires? And,
now he resides in New Orleans (along with the likes of Anne Rice and Poppy
Z. Brite).
Traveling With The Dead
by Barbara Hambly
Dell Ray Books: New York, 1995
Paperback
It is the long awaited sequel to Those Who
Hunt The Night. Hambly's Asher is a memorable character
in the tradition of Sherlock Holmes. It is well-written and an entertaining
read.
The Blood Of The Covenant
by Brent Monahan
St. Martin's Paperbacks: New York, 1995
Paperback
It is a sequel to The Book of Common
Dread. The author weaves magic and history together
to tell a fascinating vampire tale. Original and suspenseful.
Lord of the Dead
by Tom Holland
Pocket Books: New York, 1995
Hardback & Paperback
Lord Byron is a suitable historical figure to portray as a vampire.
The 19th century poet had a reputation as a cruel seducer and that
made him both compelling as well as repellent. Truly fascinating. We
understand there is a sequel to this vampire book but we haven't had a chance
to read it.
Leanna Possession Of A Woman
by Marie Kiraly
Berkley Books: New York, 1996
Paperback
Previously Kiraly wrote Mina: The Dracula
Story Continues. Now she continues with a vampire
tale set in New Orleans. Though this setting is becoming commonplace
in vampire fiction, Kiraly's novel is original and well-written. It's
a real page turner. Good plotting and detail.
Madeline After The Fall of Usher
by Marie Kiraly
Berkley Books: New York, 1996
Paperback
It is based on Edgar Allan Poe's "House of
Usher" and what really happened to the Usher family. Aficionados of
gothic literature will definitely enjoy it.
The Anita Blake Vampire Hunter series
by Laurell K. Hamilton
Ace Books: New York
Paperback
There are several books in the series. Guilty
Pleasures, The Laughing Corpse,
Circus of The Damned, The
Lunatic Cafe, The Killing Dance, and
Bloody Bones (published in that order) are
all quite good. The series includes monsters galore of various kinds. It
is undoubtedly one of the most entertaining horror series ever published.
The writer is to be commended for the enormity of her imagination.
Tanya Huff has also
written a series with a Toronto based detective and her writer/friend who
just happens to be a vampire. Blood
Price, Blood Trail,
Blood Lines, Blood
Pact, and Blood Debt (in
that order) are published by Daw Books.
The Lost A Novel of Dark Discoveries
by Jonathan Aycliffe
Harper Prism: New York, 1996
Hardback
It is set in ceontemporary Rumania. A young teacher inherits a Rumanian
castle and the title of count to go along with it. A "must" read.
It's well done, entertaining, and has lots of atmosphere.
Liquid Dreams of
Vampires
by Martin V.
Riccardo, publisher of the late
Journal of Vampire Studies
Llewellyn Books: St. Paul, MN
1996
Trade Paperback
His book is devoted to the erotic and haunting dreams of vampires
that many people experience. He includes a solid background of vampire
lore and history. It is entertaining and a worthwhile addition to any
vampire collection. We look forward to any future literary endeavors
by Martin Riccardo, a true vampirologist.
The Vampire Book--Encyclopedia of the
Undead
Video Hound's Vampires on Video
by J. Gordon Melton
Visible Ink Press: Detroit, MI
1994 & '99 for the Encyclopedia and
1998 for the Video book
Trade Paperback
The Encyclopedia is an outstanding piece
of research. He covers practically everything in the vampire genre.
Recently he published an updated version. However, that
doesn't mean that one should overlook the older version in favor of the newer
one. The older version contains a lot of interesting material not included
in the second version, and the newer version, of course, contains things
not included in the older version. Either way one can't go wrong in
buying both editions. The
Video book should interest any vampire
film buff.
Vampires
Restless Creatures of the Night
by Jean Marigny
Discoveries series
Harry N. Abrams, Inc.: New York, 1994 (English translation)
Paperback
This is a wonderful addition to the Discoveries series which is an outstanding
endeavor. It's a delightful little classy book that covers the background
of the earliest known origins of vampires up to the present day plus covering
the vampire in literature, film & television. It's the kind of
book one can carry around in a purse or a pocket and read from it time and
again. In addition, it contains some wonderful drawings, paintings,
and photographs.
WITCHING HOUR REVIEWS
by Sharida Rizzuto
From THE SALEM JOURNAL #1:
ALL WOMEN ARE HEALERS--A
COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO NATURAL HEALING
by Diane Stein
Thi Crossing Press
Freedom, CA
1990
Trade paperback
The book covers a considerable range of information
about natural healing--the practice of Reiki, polarity balancing, Chinese
medicine and acupressure, reflexology, vitamins & minerals, herbs, homeopathy
and more. The author discusses the role of women as healers and how
throughout the ages they have practiced many diverse forms of healing
only to be repressed again and again by the male dominated "powers that be."
Though some readers will be turned off by the feminist bias there is
certainly a tremendous amount of relevant information in the book.
THE COMPLETE BOOK OF INCENSE, OILS &
BREWS
by Scott Cunningham
Llewellyn Publications
St. Paul, MN
1990
Trade paperback
Everything you ever wanted to know about incense,
oils and brews are in this book! The author teaches the reader how
to make different kinds of incense, oils, ointments, ritual soaps, bath salts,
etc. He also gives the principles of magic so one is able to empower
their blends of incense, oils, etc. to heal, to attract, to promote, simulate,
increase and/or heighten whatever one wants. This is a book of positive
magic, no negative stuff here.
DRAWING DOWN THE MOON--WITCHES, DRUIDS, GODDESS--WORSHIP
and OTHER PAGANS IN AMERICA
by Margot Adler
Beacon Press
Boston, MA
1986
Trade paperback
The definitive book on neo-paganism. Adler
thoroughly covers the entire range of modern-day neo-pagans. It's obvious
she is an authority in her field. All occult enthusiasts and practioners
should read this one.
THE GOD of the WITCHES
by Margaret A. Murray
Oxford University Press
NYC, NY
1970
Trade paperback
This book is a study of witchcraft as practiced
in Europe dating back to pre-Christian times to the paleolithic period.
Murray, the late noted anthropologist discusses the idea that
certain individuals were ritually sacrificed to ensure the continued fertility
of a people and their land. She claims that it happened repeatedly
throughout history with such notable people as Thomas a Becket, Joan of Arc,
Gilles de Rais and others. Fascinating book.
LA-BAS (DOWN THERE)
& AGAINST THE GRAIN (A
REBOURS)
by J. K. Huysmans
Dover Publications
NYC, NY
1972 & 1969
Trade paperback
The first book is considered a classic on Satanism.
The author describes in detail the rituals of the Black Mass. He
was widely experienced with the world of the occult in 19th century Paris
during the fin de siecle period. It was one of total decadence. In
this book, as well as the other (A. T. G.) he uses a character to voice his
obsession with decadence. It's definitely an interesting read for scholars
of the occult. However, a word of caution--some readers will find
it disturbing and/or offensive.
LEAVES OF YGGDRASIL--A SYNTHESIS OF RUNES, GODS,
MAGIC, FEMININE MYSTERIES, FOLKLORE
by Freya Aswynn
Llewellyn Publications
St. Paul, MN
1990
Trade paperback
This book covers the runic alphabet, divination
and magic, use of runes in healing and more. Aswynn explains the historical
and cultural significance of runic magic. Detailed and interesting.
MEPHISTOPHELES--THE DEVIL IN THE MODERN
WORLD
by Jeffrey Burton Russell
Cornell University Press
Ithaca, NY
1986
Trade paperback
It is Russell's fourth volume in a series about
the Christian historical concept of the D-e-v-i-l. The book begins
with the Reformation and continues on into the present. Russell discusses
how the concept of the D-e-v-i-l has been influenced by changes in society
which include art, culture, theology, literature, philosophy, etc. This
is a scholarly work, not something written from a Christian fundamentalist
prospective. Good for research. Interesting.
RIDING THE NIGHTMARE--WOMEN & WITCHCRAFT FROM
THE OLD WORLD TO COLONIAL SALEM
by Selma R. Williams and Pamela Williams Adelman
Harper Perennial/Harper Collins
NYC, NY
1978
Trade paperback
The authors' contention is since the majority
of those condemned for witchcraft (90%) in both Europe and America were women
that it was a case of discrimination pure and simple. They explain
that the society through the church, politics, popular distributed tracts,
etc., promoted the myth that women were evil incarnate and therefore capable
of practicing witchcraft. The authors make a strong case. However,
it is obvious that they have a strong feminist bias. While much of
their evidence is solid, the reader should keep in mind that further research
is necessary whenever there is a strong bias in any direction.
SANTERIA THE RELIGION--A LEGACY of FAITH, RITES,
and MAGIC
by Migene Gonzalez-Wippler
Harmony Books
NYC, NY
1989
Hardback
It is an interesting look at the world of
Santeria--a branch of voodoo. It is derived from the West African Yoruba
people. When some of these people made their way aboard slave ships
bound for the New World (Cuba), they brought their voodoo practices with
them. Later it would be incorporated with Catholicism. Eventually,
Santeria would be adopted by the Hispanic population in Cuba. Since
those days it has spread across some of the Caribbean and America.
A detailed account of the origins, development and spread of
Santeria are given in this book. It has become a very popular religion
among large segments of Black and Hispanic populations and even some whites
ascribe to it nowadays. Whether or not the reader believes in the powers
of voodoo, the subject is fascinating because of the social and cultural
implications if nothing else.
WITCHCRAFT AT SALEM
by Chadwick Hansen
Signet Books
NYC, NY
1969
Paperback
Hansen contents that witchcraft was indeed being
practiced in colonial Salem as it had been for centuries in Europe and elsewhere.
He acknowledges that the majority of those accused of witchcraft and
executed were innocent but adds that some of them were, indeed, guilty.
However, he does not condone the executions.
Much research went into the book and the author does not have
a Christian fundamentalist bias. It is worth tracking down a used copy
since it is not currently in print.
WITCHCRAFT in
ENGLAND
by Christine Hole
Collier Books
NYC, NY
1966
Paperback
This is a survey book of witchcraft as it was
practiced in England of the Middle Ages and after. The author covers
diverse aspects of its lore and history. Anyone interested in the history
of witchcraft should read the book. It is probably not in print so
it will require locating a used copy. It is informative and gives the
reader an overview of what it must have been like to live in those days.
WITCHCRAFT--THE OLD
RELIGION
by Dr. Leo Louis Martello
Citadel Press
Secaucus, NJ
(no date given)
Trade paperback
Dr. Martello gives much background material
about the traditions of witchcraft. He dispels myths about witchcraft
generally perpetrated by the Christian churches. He includes much
historical background about the origins and development of witchcraft with
wit and wisdom. It is clearly written and definitely a no nonsense
book.
A WITCHES BIBLE COMPLEAT
by Janet and Stewart Farrar
Magickal Childe Publishing, Inc. (This company may have recently
gone out-of-business.)
1984
Trade
The book is two in one. It consists of Eight
Sabbats for Witches and The Witches Way. The authors are well-known
among occult aficionados. They have practiced witchcraft for many years.
This volume is a must for anyone interested in learning about the practice
of wicca. It covers the rituals and information about spells, healing,
clairvoyance, reincarnation, operating a coven, the witches' tools and much
more.
NOTE: MORE TO COME!
NEW ADDITIONS:
"Is It a Bird? Is It a Plane?
No, It's Another History of Comic Books"
A Review of
Comic Book Culture--An Illustrated History
by Ron Goulart
Collectors Press
Portland, OR 2000
Reviewed by Thomas Schellenberger
Ron Goulart's Comic Book Culture--An Illustrated History is mostly that--an illustrated history. The latest reference on one of America's most popular forms of entertainment features a "gallery" of brightly colored covers of certain old comic books, spanning from the teens to the end of the "Golden Age," with a reasonable amount of text on the medium's evolution. And Superman and Batman seem to take a back seat!
There is the rundown on some of the earliest comic books from the dawn of the twentieth century--mainly comedy titles such as Buster Brown (whose name today is associated with shoes, not comics) and The Katzenjammer Kids, all of which were compilations of reprinted newspaper strips. Goulart then traces the history to the emergence of the costumed heroes, about which time when new material set the standard, until their "exile" in the late 1940's when crime and horror predominated.
As most fans can expect, the bulk is on the gaudily-clad super-crusaders, and since it has to do with the Golden Age, the crusaders clash with the Third Reich. What many not be expected is the strong emphasis on heroes who have come and gone long before many of the baby boomers were around, including "The Green Mask," "The Black Terror," "Air Man," "The Red Bee," and "Rulah, Jungle Goddess." Such stalwarts as Fawcett's "Captain Marvel," and Marvel Comics' (then, it was known as timely) "Sub-Mariner," however, do not go unnoticed, especially in the cover scenes.
The text, as well as some profiles of writers and artists,
constitutes a small part of Comic Book
Culture. Much of it is a splendid array of impressive cover
art. The book is a delight for any comics' collector.
BOOK REVIEW -- Spotlight on Peter Cushing
by Lucinda MacGregor
Past Forgetting -- Memoirs of the Hammer Years
by Peter Cushing
Isis Large Print Mainstream Press & Clio Press
(by arrangement with George Weidenfield & Nicolson Ltd.)
55 Thomas Street
Oxford, England OX1 1JG
1988
Hardcover
First published by George Weidenfield & Nicolson Ltd. (also published
the first volume, An Autobiography)
91 Chapham High Street
London SW4 7TA
(Past Forgetting is also published in the same volume with the first
part, An Autobiography, by Midnight Marquee Press, Baltimore, MD in
2001.)
Past Forgetting is the second part of British actor Peter Cushing's
autobiography. The first part, An Autobiography, was published
in 1987. In the first book Cushing devoted much of it to his life with
his wife, Helen. Since Cushing's fans clamored for more about his Hammer
years, he decided to write the second book.
Cushing was a British gentleman of the old school. They do not make them like him anymore. He had a dignity and strength of character that belonged to a time long passed. Most notable about Cushing's character was his character trait of never speaking ill of anyone. He always had something good to say about someone. He looked for the good qualities in a person's character. It is obvious the man had a noble nature. He was exceptionally kind and compassionate toward his fellow humans. This is revealed not only in Cushing's autobiography but has been stated many times over both by people who knew him well and those only acquainted with him. He treated everyone he encountered with equal respect and courtesy. Cushing was also known for his deep appreciation of his fans. According to Forrest Ackerman, noted horror publisher, he went out of his way to spend many extra hours signing autographs for fans. He did not like to leave until everyone who requested an autograph received one.
In Past Forgetting, Cushing included some interesting sections about his stage career, his hobbies (he was a gifted painter and builder of various kinds of models), but much of the book is devoted to his years spent working for Hammer Films. He had much praise for Vincent Price, Christopher Lee, Sammy Davis Jr., and Peter Ustinov as well as others not mentioned here. Cushing's great and abiding love for his wife, Helen, stayed with him all of his life (she passed away in 1971).
Past Forgetting, as well as Cushing's first book, are enough to satisfy any devoted fan. Both books are worth going back to and reading again and again. Cushing captured the time he lived in and those were indeed simpler times than what we have today. He cherished his life and the time spent with his wife, friends, associates, and fans. He had a fine appreciation of the good things in his life. He realized that life should be enjoyed to the fullest and he did not squander it with a bad attitude or mean-spiritedness. Anyone could learn much from reading his books and understanding his approach to life. Cushing was without a doubt an exceptional human being, a man of true nobility of character.
Other Peter Cushing Books:
An Actor , and a Rare One: Peter Cushing As Sherlock Holmes
by Tony Earnshaw
Scarecrow Press
2001
Hardcover
Peter Cushing: The Gentle Man of Horror and His 91 Films
by Deborah Del Vecchio
McFarland & Company
1992
Hardcover
Peter Cushing Companion
by David Miller
Reynolds & Hearn
2002
Paperback
Peter Cushing's Horror Movies
by Peter Haining
Robert Hale Ltd.
1994
Hardback
Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing and Horror Cinema:
A Filmography of Their 22 Collaborations
by Mark A. Miller
McFarland & Company
1994
Hardcover
MORE TO COME!