Why You Should Read the Horrors of Joe R. Lansdale

Joe R. Lansdale isn’t just a name in the literary world; he’s a force of nature, a vivid storyteller who has mastered the art of gripping us with his distinct voice and unforgettable narratives. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of horror, thrillers, or comics, Lansdale’s works are an exploration you’ll want to embark on. So today, The Longbox of Darkness will introduce you to five horror-laced works of his that, as a weird fiction fan, you simply have to read.

But first, let’s get to know Joe better by briefly looking at his origins…

A Glimpse into the Career of a Master Storyteller

Born in 1951, Lansdale grew up with a love for tales that twisted reality and delved into the unknown. He began his writing journey with short stories, and quickly, his name became synonymous with unique narratives that blend horror, mystery, humor, and suspense.

Lansdale has penned over 50 novels and 500 short stories, and his works have been translated into a multitude of languages. He has received numerous awards, including the Edgar Award, Bram Stoker Award, and British Fantasy Award, marking him as an author of international acclaim.

I first became aware of his work through his Jonah Hex “Shadows West” and “Two Gun Mojo” series at DC Comics’ Vertigo imprint. But it would turn out to be a movie by director Don Coscarelli (of Phantasm fame), based on one of Joe’s short stories, that would galvanize me to pick up his prose…

Bubba Ho-Tep: A Cult Classic

The movie in question is the cult-classic “Bubba Ho-Tep” (2002). It’s a tale as wild as they come, featuring Elvis Presley in a rest home battling an ancient Egyptian mummy. And it stars Bruce Campbell! If you haven’t seen it, you’re in for a ride that is as twisty as it is entertaining; par for the course for a Lansdale weird fiction yarn. Long story short: after tracking down the short story, I ended up a Lansdale junkie.

A Flourishing Comic Book Career

Joe R. Lansdale’s foray into the world of comics is unequivocal evidence of his versatile storytelling abilities. His contributions to the medium are as unique and thrilling as his prose, extending his narrative craftsmanship into a vivid, visual realm.

One of Lansdale’s standout works in comics is his work on the Jonah Hex series, specifically the “Shadows West” collection, which I mentioned earlier. Jonah Hex, the iconic scar-faced bounty hunter, is a character that Lansdale seemed destined to write. In “Shadows West,” he breathes new life into the character, adding layers of depth, complexity, and horror.

The collection consists of three miniseries: “Two-Gun Mojo,” “Riders of the Worm and Such,” and “Shadows West.” Together, they form a trilogy that chucks us head-first into the supernatural landscape of the DC Comics’ Old West.

“Two-Gun Mojo”: In this series, Jonah Hex faces off against undead gunfighters and sinister forces. Lansdale’s dark humor and flair for the macabre shine through, creating a blend of horror and Western that’s unforgettable.

“Riders of the Worm and Such”: This installment brings a Lovecraftian twist to the Wild West, with Jonah Hex battling monstrous worms and other eerie creatures. It’s a story that captures Lansdale’s ability to meld genres in a way that’s both entertaining and chilling.

“Shadows West”: The final series is a fitting conclusion, filled with supernatural encounters, folklore, and Lansdale’s signature wit. It’s a captivating ending to a trilogy that showcases what makes Lansdale such a unique storyteller.

In addition to Jonah Hex, Lansdale has collaborated with top-tier artists on series such as Conan The Barbarian and The Lone Ranger, adding his distinctive blend of dark humor and gritty realism. His work in comics is not just an extension of his literary prowess; it’s a testament to his ability to adapt his unique voice to different mediums, creating stories that resonate with a wide range of audiences.

His comic book contributions are a fascinating exploration for fans of his novels and short stories, as well as for those who appreciate the art of visual storytelling. And though he is an excellent comic book scribe, his real genius comes to play in his prose, which we’ll look at next…

Five Must-Reads for New Readers

Alright, fright fans! Here are five handpicked reads that showcase the breadth and depth of JRL’s talent:

1. The Bottoms

Set in the Depression-era of East Texas, “The Bottoms” is a riveting tale that combines a murder mystery with an exploration of racism and family bonds. The story unfolds through the eyes of young Harry Crane, who discovers a mutilated body in the local river bottoms.

As the mystery deepens, the novel paints a vivid picture of rural life during the 1930s, touching on issues like racial prejudice and the complexities of growing up. Lansdale’s rich prose captures the innocence of childhood, contrasted with the dark underbelly of society, making it a must-read for those who love a thrilling mystery imbued with historical context.

2. A Fine Dark Line

This isn’t just a novel; it’s a time machine, transporting readers to the summer of 1958 in the small town of Dumont, Texas. Lansdale’s writing, infused with warmth, humor, and a touch of the mysterious, guides us through the eyes of young Stanley Mitchel Jr., who stumbles upon a series of old letters that hint at an unsolved murder.

It all begins at Stanley’s family’s drive-in theater, a place of magic and mystery, where Stanley stumbles upon a hidden tin box filled with love letters – letters that speak of longing, loss, and a dark history.

As the young boy delves into the faded pages, he’s led to a burned-out house and whispers of two tragic deaths that haunt the town’s officials. But Stanley isn’t alone in his quest; by his side is Buster Smith, the wise and weathered projectionist at the drive-in. An elderly black man with demons of his own, Buster becomes Stanley’s ally, guiding him with wisdom that’s often hidden beneath a veneer of alcohol and sorrow.

Together, they unravel a mystery that goes deeper than they ever imagined, uncovering secrets that some in Dumont would do anything to keep buried. Along the way, they expose not only the truth but also themselves, their friends, and their family to unforeseen dangers.

“A Fine Dark Line” is more than a coming-of-age story; it’s a tale of discovery, courage, and the bonds that connect us. It’s about looking beyond what’s seen and understanding the hidden layers of those around us. With Joe R. Lansdale’s masterful storytelling, you’ll find yourself transported to a time and place where every character feels real, every emotion hits home, and every twist beckons you to keep reading.

3. The Complete Drive-In

“The Complete Drive-In” is a work that epitomizes Joe R. Lansdale’s ability to blend the bizarre with the profound. It’s not just a book; it’s a journey into an otherworldly night at a Texas drive-in theater, where things take a turn for the surreal.

Comprised of three parts – “The Drive-In: A ‘B’ Movie with Blood and Popcorn, Made in Texas,” “The Drive-In 2: Not Just One of Them Sequels,” and “The Drive-In 3: The Bus Tour” – this series takes the reader on a wild ride that starts with a night of fun and quickly descends into a nightmarish world where reality is twisted and terror reigns.

Imagine being trapped in a drive-in theater, surrounded by monstrous creatures, transformed fellow moviegoers, and an ever-playing series of B-movies. It’s a concept that’s as intriguing as it is horrifying, and Lansdale navigates it with the skill of a master storyteller.

What makes “The Complete Drive-In” stand out is not just its horror elements but its underlying commentary on society, consumer culture, and human nature. The drive-in becomes a microcosm of the world, reflecting our fears, desires, and the thin line that separates civilization from chaos.

Lansdale’s writing is sharp, witty, and unapologetically raw. He takes the reader by the hand, guiding them through this nightmarish landscape with a blend of humor, horror, and a touch of melancholy. It’s a story that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining, offering a glimpse into the darker corners of our psyche.

“The Complete Drive-In” is Lansdale at his most creative, pushing the boundaries of genre and expectation. It’s a book that defies categorization, much like Lansdale himself. Whether you’re a horror fan, a lover of the absurd, or someone who appreciates a story that makes you think, “The Complete Drive-In” is a novel that demands your attention.

4. High Cotton: Selected Stories of Joe R. Lansdale

“High Cotton” is a handpicked collection of Lansdale’s best works, reflecting his multifaceted talent across genres. From horror to western, crime to fantasy, this compilation is a celebration of Lansdale’s storytelling prowess.

Here are a smattering of the tales found within:

• “The Night They Missed the Horror Show”: This story tackles racial tensions in a small Texas town, following two teenagers who skip a horror movie only to find themselves in a real-life nightmare.
• “Incident On and Off a Mountain Road”: After wrecking her car, a woman encounters a serial killer named Moonface, and her life takes an unexpected turn. This one is definitely not for the faint of heart.
• “The Pit”: A suspenseful story that delves into the world of illegal dog-fighting, exposing human brutality and greed.

With his signature blend of dark humor, vivid imagery, and unfiltered emotion, “High Cotton” is a journey through the mind of a master storyteller.

5. The Best of Joe R. Lansdale

“The Best of Joe R. Lansdale” is a treasure trove for readers new and old. It’s a collection that encapsulates the essence of Lansdale’s writing, filled with memorable characters, gripping plots, and that unique Lansdale touch.

Some standout stories include:

• “Bubba Ho-Tep”: Already mentioned earlier, this tale features an aging Elvis battling a mummy in a Texas rest home. It’s wild, hilarious, and surprisingly touching.
• “On the Far Side of the Cadillac Desert with Dead Folks”: A post-apocalyptic tale that combines horror and science fiction, offering a bleak yet fascinating view of a future world.
• “Mad Dog Summer”: A nostalgic yet dark coming-of-age tale, this story unravels a murder mystery through the eyes of a young boy, echoing themes found in “The Bottoms.”

This collection is more than a showcase of Lansdale’s best; it’s a gateway into a world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, where horror, humor, and heart coalesce into tales that linger long after the last page is turned.

The Wrap-Up

Joe R. Lansdale’s writing isn’t just about scares or thrills; it’s about experiencing stories that are alive, resonant, and profoundly human. His works are a celebration of imagination, a dance between reality and fantasy that offers readers an escape into worlds both strange and familiar.

Whether you’re picking up one of his novels or short story collections, Lansdale’s writing promises a journey filled with surprises, laughter, and contemplation. It’s not just reading; it’s an adventure. So why not start yours today with one of the recommendations above? Trust us; you won’t regret it.

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Thanks for reading, fright fans. If you have any personal favorite picks of JRL that you want to share, feel free to do so in the comments below. And remember to subscribe to the blog to be notified of future posts! Until next we meet in the shadowy corners of the Longbox of Darkness, keep it creepy, and pleasant screams!

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