7 Clive Barker Stories You Have To Read

Clive Barker is renowned for his terrifying on-screen monsters like Candyman and Pinhead from Hellraiser, but his literary works are equally compelling. This list highlights seven of Barker's most unforgettable stories, offering a perfect introduction to his unique talent as a writer. From the dreamlike horrors of The Thief of Always to the brutal intensity of The Hellbound Heart, these books showcase Barker's ability to blend beauty with terror. The Midnight Meat Train delves into the grimy and bleak fears that lurk in the back of our minds, while The Forbidden explores the chilling consequences of obsession. For those who enjoy sprawling fantasy epics, The Great and Secret Show and Imajica offer rich, complex worlds filled with magic and existential questions. Cabal, another brilliant novella, provides a dark yet hopeful meditation on mental health and societal expectations. With upcoming Hollywood reboots of his iconic characters, there's no better time to dive into the haunting and singular world of Clive Barker.