I discovered Richard Chizmar by way of Stephen King (who appears frequently throughout this book). The two co-wrote a novella titled Gwendy’s Button Box.

The concept of the book is interesting. While being a work of fiction it is written in the style of true crime and told from the author’s perspective. Chizmar places himself square in the middle of this story by putting the setting as his hometown. He is a recent college graduate, moving back home to his parents’ house while starting a new magazine business - Cemetery Dance magazine no less. So, it’s a fictionalized true crime memoir which makes for a rather enjoyable and unique reading experience.

The concept works really well, the writing is good, the story line is interesting. Would I call it horror? As a long time “Constant Reader”, I would have to say no. I wouldn’t take that as criticism, however. Books, like all other forms of art, are subjective.

Apparently, this is book one of a proposed trilogy. I’m looking forward to reading more about the Boogeyman.