Some people love that edge of your seat excitement from a scary story, while others can’t handle the fright. Regardless of where your tolerance lies, everyone has a limit to what is too frightening for them, whether that be campfire tales, movies, or even books.
Books can be too scary for people because they understand the story from the inside. The writer often gives details that help you get into the characters’ minds. Rather than seeing images on a screen, your imagination works to create the scariest scenarios for you.
Being scared is an interesting phenomenon, and why we choose it is even more perplexing. Read on to discover what makes a book so scary and some good reading options if you’re looking to get that fear-induced adrenaline.
What Makes a Book Scary?
There are several genres of books, from children’s books to science fiction. Different books evoke various sensations, from being calming to causing fear or excitement. Many stories can be suspenseful, but it takes certain elements to take that further and actually be scary.
What makes a book scary is having a creepy setting, disturbing characters, and surprises. The description of the scene paints a picture for the reader, who may add spooky elements from their imagination. Unexpected twists make the reader feel on edge, as if something wrong may happen at any moment.
You might assume your mind protects you by blocking your imagination from those scary thoughts. However, this is not true. When reading a frightening book, your mind tends to pick up on the theme and expand upon it instead— often creating a scarier version than you may want.
Can Books Be Scarier Than Movies?
The debate of whether movies or books are better is really up to personal preference. Some movies provide excellent cinematography that you can’t get on paper, while books can enliven your mind and imagination.
When it comes to thrillers, it’s hard to say which one gives us a bigger fright.
Books can be scarier than movies because they play upon the darkest parts of our minds. Movies lay out the visuals and action for the audience, which some may find quite frightening. However, books give the reader control, which usually leads to them creating a scarier version for themselves.
If you’re not sure, try reading some creepy novels for yourself. You may be surprised at just how dreadful your thoughts become as you paint a visual picture and delve into the evil minds of the characters at hand.
Books That Will Creep You Out
Thrillers and horror books are plentiful. Some might be downright silly, but others have been known to be quite disturbing. If you’re easily scared, you might want to read these novels in the morning to avoid a restless night. If it’s nighttime, it’s a good thing you have to keep the lights on to read!
1. The Call of Cthulhu by H.P. Lovecraft
The Call of Cthulhu is a cautionary tale of what can happen when humans reach beyond their limits. The main character has pushed these boundaries and is now in constant fear of impending death. A supernatural theme, mythical monsters, and fear of death are the stuff nightmares are made of– and this book embodies that well.
2. The Shining by Stephen King
The Shining by Stephen King starts out as a typical family trip that turns dark. There’s significant foreshadowing, which builds suspense as the main character slowly goes insane. It’s a tale that doesn’t seem so far-fetched compared to some horror stories, making it even scarier.
3. Pet Sematary by Stephen King
Another thriller fan favorite by Stephen King, Pet Sematary, is a return from the dead tale. When a young World War II veteran dies in battle, his body is returned home. However, soon after his burial, he reemerges to terrorize the town with an ungodly nature and inexplicable knowledge.
4. The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty
This story is based loosely on actual events, which creates an even creepier tale. A young girl begins acting strange, and those around her assume she is possessed by a demonic spirit and in need of an exorcist. Mental health and the paranormal are closely entwined, making readers feel deeply disturbed.
5. The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris
While many remember this famous movie, they forget it was actually based on a book. The Silence of the Lambs paints a picture of a highly intelligent, sociopathic man who enjoys cannibalistic experiences. It’s a psychological thriller that makes you wonder just how crazy people can be.
What Is Considered the Scariest Book?
Many books can be downright bone-chilling. There are a number that come to mind. Several votes have been cast in the past, but one book consistently comes out on the top of scary book lists.
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson is known as the scariest book. This literary winner is about a haunted mansion being studied for its connection to the paranormal. It plays upon the human fear of the supernatural and what they cannot control.
You might recognize this title from the popular Netflix adaptation. Rather than create a straightforward horror scene, The Haunting of Hill House leaves you guessing– which might be the most terrifying of all sensations. Much of the fear comes from the subtleties and foreshadowing of what’s to come.
Final Thoughts
Books are a great way to expand your mind and knowledge. While many see reading as a wholesome, calming activity, it can also be a scary experience!
Horror and thriller novels are often even scarier than their on-screen counterparts. Books can transport us to darker regions of our minds. They play upon existing fears, allowing our imaginations to expand on them.
Many people enjoy scary stories and seek them out in films and novels. However, some books are just too frightening for some to read. It’s up to you to determine where you are on this fear-tolerating spectrum!
