It is time to put on our spooky hats again; October is here. As the summer heat makes way for the winter chill, the smell of pumpkin spice takes over our neighbourhood. As we cosy up to the cooler weather and embrace our love for horror and the thrills of life - more people also make it a point to shift to darker books, indulge in horror stories and embrace the spooky side of the world. Spooktober has been a way for these horror-loving people to indulge in the themes they enjoy and fully embrace the dark side of the world. As we celebrate Spooktober 2024 and await Halloween 2024, here are the top 5 books that can help you get started on celebrating Spooktober. Spooktober 2024 Activities – Watch Movies! From 'The Texas Chain Saw Massacre' to 'Bodies Bodies Bodies,' 5 Movies To Truly Embrace the Halloween Season.

1. 'The Shining' By Stephen King

You cannot talk about the spooky season without mentioning Stephen King—the king of horror and thrillers. The Shining is one of the author's most prominent books and is perfect for setting the tone of the season.

2. 'Frankenstein' by Mary Shelley

Frankenstein is often considered the book that is one of the earliest examples of science fiction. Conceived by the eighteen-year-old Mary Shelley, Frankenstein continues to be a thrilling story that fascinates many and needs to be read by anyone who appreciates the genre.

3. 'Dracula' by Bram Stoker

If you enjoy the world of vampires and werewolves, you need to indulge in the book that is touted to have started it all. Bram Stoker’s Dracula was published in 1897 and is one of the most popular gothic horror stories that is believed to be steeped in history. Drawing extensively from Transylvanian folklore and history, Dracula is the book you should read. Evergreen Halloween 2024 Costume Ideas: From Count Dracula to Wednesday Addams, Timeless Characters To Take Cues From For Spooktober Celebrations!

4. 'The Haunting of Hill House' by Shirley Jackson

The Haunting of Hill House is a psychological thriller that is focused on exploring the fear of the unknown. The book is sure to take you on a trip as you explore the hill house through the eyes of the four main characters and understand what is happening.

5. 'The Hunger' by Alma Katsu

There is something so exciting about revisiting a historic event and sprinkling it with a hint of supernatural horror. And The Hunger by Alma Katsu does just that. This reimagined telling of the Donner Party—a group of American pioneers who became stranded in the Sierra Nevada mountains during the winter of 1846-1847, makes for a fun and engaging spooktober read that will leave you impressed.

In addition to this, there have been several horror releases in recent years that will lead you down a dark, spooky path and make you enjoy every second of the journey. From Stephen Graham Jones’ The Angel of Indian Lake (the third part of The Indian Lake trilogy) to What the Woods Took by Courtney Gould - the options are endless. We hope you find some spooky books that will help you to fully embrace your love for horror this Spooktober.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 08, 2024 10:21 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).