Drawn to the Dark

“An insightful, personal exploration of humankind’s global fascination with the monstrous.” —Lisa Morton, author of Trick or Treat: A History of Halloween

Inspired by a fascination with fear culture, writer Chris Kullstroem left her job and home to experience firsthand some of the world’s most legendary scare shows. Under the guidance of locals, she saw it all: attractions like the Day of the Dead, the haunts of New Zealand, and even the mythical Krampus brought to life in the streets of Austria. Each eerie enactment evokes a sense of wonder, demonstrating powerful emotions that transcend language and culture to reveal a connection we all share.

“Visit candlelit cemeteries in Oaxaca, duck the whips of Krampus in Salzburg, hunt zombies in Britain, and dance with witches atop Brocken Mountain on Walpurgis Night . . . A deliciously creepy companion for the free-spirited armchair traveler.” —Lesley Bannatyne, author of Halloween Nation: Behind the Scenes of America’s Fright Night

“A fascinating glimpse into the exploration of the darker, more fantastic corners of our imagination from around the world!” —Edward Douglas, founder of and cocomposer for the award-winning recording act Midnight Syndicate

“An excitingly macabre tour through a horror lover’s best attractions and events!” —Justin Lewis, Mr. Frights