Title: The Amityville Horror
Author: Jay Anson
First published September 13, 1977
315 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780553116601 (ISBN10: 0553116606)
Rating: 3.84
Overview
Experience 28 days of pure terror as you enter a house possessed by evil spirits. The Lutz family thought they had found their dream home in December 1975, but they soon realized they were not alone.
One year earlier, Ronald DeFeo had murdered his parents, brothers, and sisters in the same house. What followed was a series of psychic phenomena that shook the Lutz family to their core.
In just 28 days, they were forced to flee, convinced that the house was indeed possessed by evil spirits. The Amityville Horror is a true story that will leave you gripping the edge of your seat, with all the shocks and suspense of classic horror films like The Exorcist, The Omen, and Rosemary’s Baby.
About the Author
Jay Anson was a renowned American author, best known for his work, The Amityville Horror. Following the tremendous success of this novel, he went on to pen another spine-chilling tale, 666, which also centered on a haunted house.
Anson kickstarted his career as a copy boy at the New York Evening Journal in 1937, before moving on to advertising and publicity. He worked with Professional Films, Inc.
and has received credit for more than 500 documentary scripts for television. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1980.
Anson’s work, The Amityville Horror, was marketed as a “true story” and was based on the eerie encounters reported by George Lutz and Kathleen Lutz at 112 Ocean Avenue in December 1975. Anson bought the rights to the couple’s story, and then added and adapted some of their original claims to create his book.
These additions were later showcased in the movie adaptation of the novel.
Editoral Review
Jay Anson’s “The Amityville Horror” is a classic of horror literature that was first published in 1977. The book is a true story of the Lutz family’s experiences with paranormal activities in their new home in Amityville, New York.
The novel is a chilling account of their terrifying ordeal and has become a seminal work in the horror genre. Anson deftly weaves a tale of horror that remains relevant to this day.
The book is notable for its vivid descriptions, impeccable pacing, and ability to create a genuinely spine-tingling atmosphere. Anson’s writing style is simple yet effective, making the novel very accessible to even the most casual reader.
The book is set in the quaint town of Amityville, known for its idyllic surroundings and friendly people. However, the Lutz family soon learns that their dream home is not what it seems.
Strange occurrences begin to happen in quick succession, and the family realizes that they have been haunted by malevolent spirits. The main characters, the Lutz family, are portrayed in great detail, and their plight is remarkably relatable.
There is no sense of detachment between the reader and the characters, which makes it all the more harrowing when they face the horror that has befallen them. Anson’s strength lies in his ability to incite fear and exploit the reader’s imagination.
The book is written in a way that draws the reader into the story and keeps them engaged with the happenings. The suspense is skillfully built up until the horrific climax, making it an intense and unforgettable experience.
Despite its relatively short length, “The Amityville Horror” is a masterclass in storytelling. Anson’s precise use of language creates a palpable sense of fear and desperation that is difficult to shake off.
The book’s cultural significance cannot be understated. The true events on which the book is based have been the subject of numerous films, TV shows, and documentaries.
The Lutz family’s story has become a staple of urban legend and paranormal folklore. While “The Amityville Horror” is undoubtedly a well-crafted horror novel, it is not without its flaws.
The book suffers from some inconsistencies in pacing, and the conclusion feels a bit rushed. Some readers may also find the portrayal of certain characters and themes to be dated, but this is largely a reflection of the time in which the book was written.
Despite these minor shortcomings, “The Amityville Horror” remains one of the most iconic horror novels of all time. It has inspired countless imitators and is a must-read for fans of the genre.
The book’s legacy is a testament to Anson’s skill as a writer and his ability to create a work that is both terrifying and thought-provoking. In conclusion, if you are a horror fan or simply looking for a good scare, “The Amityville Horror” is a must-read.
It is a timeless classic that continues to frighten and fascinate readers to this day. If you dare to venture into the world of the Lutz family, you won’t be disappointed.
8 out of 10.
