Scary!

Peter Haining, a name synonymous with horror anthologies, presents in "Scary!" a formidable compendium designed to both delight and disquiet. This volume is not merely a random assortment of tales; rather, it is a carefully assembled journey through the landscape of the macabre, demonstrating a keen understanding of what truly constitutes 'scary' across different eras and cultural sensibilities. From the gothic dread of early masters to the psychological terrors of the modern age, Haining has painstakingly selected pieces that exemplify distinct facets of horror, often unearthing lesser-known gems alongside canonical works. The editor's guiding hand is evident throughout, shaping a narrative arc for the anthology itself, which moves from chilling anticipation to outright terror.

The strength of "Scary!" lies in its encyclopedic ambition; Haining endeavors to provide a comprehensive overview, and in large measure, he succeeds. Readers will find stories that explore supernatural phenomena, psychological breakdown, existential dread, and the grotesque, each chosen to illustrate a particular facet of fear. The collection serves as an informal literary history, showcasing how authors have continually innovated in their attempts to disturb and provoke thought. One might easily spend weeks poring over these pages, discovering new authors or revisiting old favorites with a fresh perspective, understanding their place within the broader tapestry of horror fiction.

Beyond the selection of stories, Haining often includes brief, insightful introductions to each piece or author, contextualizing their work within the genre's development. These interstitial notes, though concise, add significant value, transforming the anthology from a simple collection into an educational experience. They illuminate the prevailing anxieties of the time in which a story was written, or highlight the unique stylistic contributions of its creator. This academic rigor, woven seamlessly into the fabric of entertainment, elevates "Scary!" above many similar collections, making it a valuable resource for both casual readers and serious students of horror.

However, the anthology's very ambition to be comprehensive occasionally works against its capacity for sustained dread. With such a vast array of authors and styles, the pacing can feel uneven; the transition from one distinct voice and subgenre to another, while intellectually stimulating, sometimes disrupts the cumulative build-up of atmosphere that a more singularly focused collection might achieve. While Haining's introductions are helpful, the sheer volume of material means that some stories, particularly those from lesser-known authors, might benefit from deeper critical analysis to fully articulate their impact and significance within the broader canon, rather than relying solely on their inclusion to make the point.

Ultimately, "Scary!" is a triumph of curation, offering a sprawling, intelligent exploration of fear in literature. It is an indispensable volume for aficionados of horror, providing both a historical survey and a rich vein of unsettling narratives. Haining’s discerning eye and scholarly approach ensure that this book will endure as a definitive collection, inviting readers to confront the myriad manifestations of their deepest anxieties, all while appreciating the literary craft employed to evoke them. It is a work that deserves a prominent place on the shelf of anyone interested in the darker side of storytelling.