Splatterpunks II: Over the Edge

Kirkus Reviews called Splatterpunks "an authoritative and intelligent collection for horror fans willing to go all the way." Now, this second volume of taboo-shattering horror stories and essays goes beyond the limits of convention--into the darkest corners of the human soul.

Those looking for something very different, very bizarre, and very shocking may find this collection of visceral, graphic, lurid, often disgusting short stories compelling, but it's doubtful the book should be recommended for any but the most open-minded and strong-stomached reader. Written by some of the better-known authors in the horror genre (Kathe Koja, Clive Barker, Poppy Z. Brite, among them), the stories go beyond the bounds of taste and descend into mind-boggling shock/schlock. These tales sear the mind, evoking fright, horror, and disgust and revealing primal, instinctive (and perhaps best-forgotten) reactions. And yet, it's possible to admire the sheer courage of these authors for their fearlessness at penning such "in your face" works, to respect the bizarre brilliance of the minds that dream up such grotesque plots and characters, and to believe that such stories--offensive as they may be to some--do in fact have a place in today's libraries and bookstores, if for no other reason than to expand our minds, jolt us out of our complacency, and make us thankful for the mundane, traditional, and safe. Emily Melton