As Spooky Season comes to a close, I’m leaning into some spooky stories and movies to keep me in the mood and transition into the coming cold months. There’s nothing better than drinking hot chocolate and snuggling up with a warm blanket and a classic vampire story! In this month’s article, we’ll be shining a light on upcoming and talented Stephanie A. Callaham’s newly released thriller The Beast of Both Worlds. We’ll also be featuring a short story written by Nigerian author Nnedi Okorafor from her collection of short stories Kabu Kabu, and a Black American Classic, The Piano Lesson written by August Wilson.
The Beast of Both Worlds by Stephanie A. Callaham
Callaham has been writing since she was 9 years old, exploring the different realms of creative writing, and officially began her career seven years ago! After exploring different genres, she finally has the chance to write a genre she’s always loved. So, if you’re a true fantasy reader and love the twists and turns that come with vampires, werewolves, family secrets, and betrayal, this book is definitely for you! In this novel, readers follow Sequoia as she discovers secrets with intent and makes some decisions that will, for better or worse, determine her future. A page-turner at its finest, Callaham reverts from her poetic nature and dives into writing one of her favorite genres: thriller! Keep a lookout for Sequoia’s journey next year!
How Inyang Got Her Wings
In this short story, readers follow the main character, Inyang, on her journey to true self-discovery. While this story isn’t a spooky one, it features the tales and traditions of the Hausa and Igbo tribes of Nigeria. This coming of age piece tackles topics such as love, tradition, family, and feminity. Her collection of short stories Kabu Kabu has more short stories like this if you’re interested in reading more stories set in Nigeria, featuring supernatural and fantasy stories - a great reads for this fall!
The Piano Lesson
If you enjoy reading and watching plays, this classic ghost story is a great page-turner. Written and performed in 1987, August Wilson writes this play in a way that will make you feel like you’re there. It’s ominous essence and eerie writing leave you thinking and breathless at so many points throughout it. Following the long history of a Black family in the 20th century, reading this will not only spook you but will also remind you of the simple horrors and setbacks of being Black in America.
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