Hamilton, Sue. Masters of Horror (The World of Horror). ABDO Publishing, 2007. ISBN 9781599287706. $24.21. 32 p.
Reviewer: Holly Dickman
Reading Level: Young adult, all
Rating: Excellent
Genre: Biographies; informational books;
Subject: Horror tales, American—History and criticism—Juvenile literature; Authors, American—Biography—Juvenile literature; Horror tales, English—History and criticism—Juvenile literature; Authors, English—Biography—Juvenile literature; Books—Reviews
Famous authors, actors, and directors from the 19th century to the present day are featured in this collective biography. Although each person came from different places and decades, there is one common factor among each of the talented artists: they all loved horror. Starting with Mary Wollstonecraft Shelly, author of Frankenstein, moving to horror film director Alfred Hitchcock, and ending with famous 20th century horror film actor Vincent Price, the reader meets 14 individuals who have greatly influenced "The World of Horror."
This book features each horror specialist with a brief biography about his or her life. Biographies include information like birthplaces, important dates and accomplishments, and significant personal relationships. Each biography is brief yet interesting. The reader is able to see the personal and professional sides of the accomplished individuals. Along with each biography are pictures of the individual and a small picture of some of their works. The book ends with a useful glossary of terms and an index page. A quick and interesting read that will captivate the attention of horror lovers of all ages. Especially beneficial to middle and high school libraries.
