Horror 101: The Way Forward is perhaps one of the most helpful and insightful texts devoted to analyzing and emphasizing the complexities regarding the art of horror writing. Although the piece was published by a small and not very well known press, Crystal Lake Publishing, the work has received rave reviews from critics and readers alike for its sharp and uncomplicated method of instruction. Horror 101 collects essays from various big guns in the field of speculative fiction that are savvy and extraordinarily perceptive. These collected essays are not only helpful for beginners in the field, but are essential to authors with pro sales under their belt as many of the discourses discuss the means by which to increase productivity, balance art and commerce, and strengthen one's fan base, and deal with editors and the business side of the publishing industry. The book's roster is impressive to say the least and boasts successful names such as, Ramsey Campbell, Edward Lee, and Graham Masterton. Perhaps one of the most helpful essays in the entire collection is written by Campbell and is entitled, "Avoiding What's Been Done to Death." This article is especially vital to any writer of dark fiction (pro or novice) as originality in any creative work is fundamental. Horror 101 is certainly a lesser known reference text; however, the insight it offers is irreplaceable.
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