Lornographic Material

There are reliable storytellers, and then there are the likes of Robert McCammon. I have yet to come across a McCammon story or novel that I have not loved. "Nightcrawlers" is yet another one to add to the list.

Set inside an Alabama diner while a rainstorm pummels the land, this story begins with a sense of dread already established. Storm plus isolation multiplied by strange happenstance equals win. At least when I math it does. (Yes, math is now a verb...) McCammon, like King, has a way with characters. He allows the reader to get to know his cast before the badness goes down, and that serves to provide emotional investment once the fecal matter hits the fan.

Hidden within "Nightcrawlers" is deep insight into Vietnam, and the mental and physical stability of those who returned from that war. This isn't the first time McCammon tackles this subject. In fact, one of my favorite novels of all time, GONE SOUTH, is another piece where McCammon respectfully manages the tragedy and aftermath of war.

In summation: One of the best horror shorts I've ever read. This one is available in McCammon's collection BLUE WORLD, or by its lonesome as an Amazon single. Either way, if you haven't read it, you definitely should.