By Darshini Dayanidhi

As Halloween approaches, many students are on the lookout for a good scare. From haunted houses to vengeful spirits, horror books offer the perfect mix of thrills and chills to get into the spooky spirit. This carefully selected list features a range of spine-chilling reads that are ideal for high school students, balancing engaging plots with just the right amount of scare factor. Whether you’re into supernatural mysteries, monsters, or classic ghost stories, these novels are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Ready to face your fears? Dive into one of these books and let the horror unfold!

The Shining by Stephen King

Synopsis: Jack Torrance takes a job as the winter caretaker at the isolated Overlook Hotel, bringing his family along. As winter closes in, the hotel’s sinister forces begin to take control of Jack, driving him into a murderous frenzy while his son, Danny, experiences terrifying psychic visions. This classic novel explores themes of isolation, madness, and family breakdown.

Bird Box by Josh Malerman

Synopsis: In a post-apocalyptic world where unseen creatures drive people to madness and death just by looking at them, Malorie and her two children must navigate a river blindfolded to reach safety. This novel creates an overwhelming sense of dread as they fight for survival without ever seeing the enemy.

The Troop by Nick Cutter

Synopsis: A group of boys on a camping trip in the wilderness encounter a man infected with a genetically engineered parasite. As the infection spreads, the boys must confront not only the physical horror but also the psychological breakdown that ensues. This visceral and disturbing novel explores the darker sides of human nature.

Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Synopsis: Set in 1950s Mexico, Noemí Taboada is sent to a remote mansion to check on her cousin, who has sent disturbing letters about her new husband and his family. What Noemí finds is a decaying house full of dark secrets, and the eerie, Gothic atmosphere becomes more terrifying as she uncovers the twisted truth behind the family’s disturbing legacy.

Pet Sematary by Stephen King

Synopsis: When Louis Creed moves his family to rural Maine, they discover a mysterious burial ground in the woods where the dead don’t stay buried. After tragedy strikes, Louis makes a choice that unleashes a horrific chain of events. King explores grief, death, and the dangers of tampering with forces beyond our control.

The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris

Synopsis: FBI trainee Clarice Starling is assigned to interview Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant but insane cannibalistic serial killer, to gain insights into another killer on the loose. This psychological horror novel is both disturbing and gripping, offering chilling insights into the mind of a killer.

House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski

Synopsis: A young family moves into a house only to discover that its internal dimensions are larger than the exterior, and a mysterious dark hallway keeps expanding. This experimental novel is a psychological and supernatural horror story that also explores themes of obsession, madness, and family trauma.

The Ritual by Adam Nevill

Synopsis: Four friends go on a hiking trip in the Scandinavian wilderness and stumble upon a deserted cabin filled with unsettling symbols. As they venture further into the woods, they realize they’re being hunted by something ancient and terrifying. The story blends folk horror and psychological terror, delving into themes of survival and primal fear.

Hex by Thomas Olde Heuvelt

Synopsis: The small town of Black Spring is cursed by the presence of a witch whose eyes and mouth are sewn shut. The townspeople have learned to live with her, but when a group of teenagers decides to rebel and expose her, the town spirals into chaos. This novel blends modern-day life with ancient horror, and its deeply unsettling atmosphere will linger long after the final page.

The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty

Synopsis: When young Regan MacNeil begins exhibiting violent, disturbing behavior, her mother seeks medical help. When all rational explanations fail, she turns to Father Merrin, an exorcist, to save her daughter from the demonic possession that has taken hold. This classic horror novel delves into themes of faith, evil, and the terrifying unknown.

By Snigdha Chakravarti

It’s not shocking that Americans spend about $10 billion for Halloween each year, considering its widespread popularity throughout the US. However, breaking apart this money is not as cut and dry as it seems to be, as Halloween’s economic effects are more prominent than what most of us think. In fact, the economic boosts generated by consumer spending increases job opportunities. This not only includes the main industry producing the goods, but also the packing, advertising, and transportation industries. Approximately 5000 jobs arise during the Halloween season in both retail and secondary industries, displaying one of the many positive economic roles Halloween has. Despite this,  there are several negative economic  effects that Halloween entails. According to Jadrian Wooten, a professor of economics at Virginia Tech University, Halloween spending can be thought of as a “double-edged sword.” Although jobs are created and industries benefit, Halloween “boosts consumer finance” to a point where “spending is excess in a way that people don’t pay attention to savings and investment.” Ultimately, spending money on Halloween may lead to a financial burden as a result of being unwary to the basic financial aspect of spending moderately. Additionally, Wooten explained how the Halloween products themselves lead to detrimental effects on the environment because of their material composition. 

Wooten’s perspective of Halloween being a “double-edged sword” can further be seen with the increase in GDP (gross domestic product) caused by the increase in spending during Halloween. Increase in GDP during Halloween specifically increases economic activity in the Halloween season. On the contrary, this may turn out in a decreased amount spent in August and September in order to save money for Halloween, so the possibility of a slight economic downturn can occur. 

When analyzing  the argument for whether Halloween is advantageous or disadvantageous economically, it is important to note the overall spending by consumers. This year, about 65% of people in the US will celebrate Halloween, which is up by 7% since last year. Each customer spends about $108.21, which is partly influenced by inflation; for example, candy inflation has gone up by 13.1% as an outcome of a decrease in sugar production in Mexico (from which the US gets its sugar from) by 15 % , but despite this, consumer spending has increased. From a national perspective, the money spent on Halloween items in 2023 is as follows: $3.6 billion for candy, $4.1 billion for costumes ($1.4 billion for children, $2 billion for adults, and $0.7 billion for pets), and $3.9 billion for decorations.  Since these items are used very few times in a year (and thus, have low productivity), the total economical benefit is not as awe-inspiring as it appears, but it never fails to put into perspective the importance of this event to several Americans. 

Overall, Halloween is taken for granted with regards to how much is spent and the way this may generate & impede the economy. It is crucial to take these economical factors into consideration in order to make sure Halloween is economically viable in order to balance the delight it gives to millions of people as well as the US economy. So without further ado, cheers to a fun AND economically practical Halloween!

By Gwendolyn Burtis

Congruent to the recent release of Monsters, The Erik and Lyle Menendez case, the Netflix docu-series shows the case from many perspectives, including the brothers,  and proposes the idea  that they were both molested as children and went through constant abuse before they ended their parents’ lives. There has been a recent popularity in the case as well as outrage, as Netflix portrayed a reality that was contrary to true events.

Tammi Menendez, Erik Menendez’s wife, posts  this on social media on behalf of Erik: “It is sad for me to know that Netflix’s dishonest portrayal of the tragedies surrounding our crime have taken the painful truths several steps backward…”. Erik directly pointing out how inaccurate the docu-series was gives an increased cause for the spread of misinformation, mainly that the show has a reduced view on their genuine struggles. 

Another problem about the show is how they portrayed a fictional relationship between Erik and Lyle. In one episode they share a kiss on the lips, even if such an event never occurred. The show also portrayed Erik as gay, which has proven to be false. 

Another complaint about the show is the inconsistency. One Vanity Fair writer claims “That its wild yawning between credibility and cross sensationalism is evident not of a high-minded ambiguity, but of uncertainty.” Or in simpler terms the writers simply muddied the lines between reality and perspective. The writers push past this line in complete incoherance which is specifically important to NOT do talking about such a serious case. The writers and directors claim that the show is not supposed to be 100% accurate but instead a docu-series and they pushed for more of a view of the case from different perspectives. We may never know the true roots of the situation or the story from every perspective, but for now Erik and Lyle serve a lifetime in prison at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego, California.

By Khadija Abd-Elhamid

On Friday, September 27, 2024, the world lost renowned actor, Maggie Smith. Most recall Smith from her part as Professor McGonagoll in Harry Potter, or from her role as Violet Crawley in Downton Abbey; however her acting had a wide variety, including a voice acting in Disney’s Gnomeo and Juliet. As news broke that she had passed, there was a collective shock and sorrow around the world. So what makes her so loved? Why is she an important figure? Here’s an inside look on Maggie Smith’s career and life.

At just 16, Maggie Smith left high school to study at the Oxford Playhouse. There, she performed in multiple performances, including Twelfth Night, as well as Cinderella. A mere four years later, at only 21 years old, Smith debuted on Broadway, already forging her path of achievement. As with any success story, her victories did not come without their issues; a sharp rivalry between her and costar Laurence Oliver came to a head when he struck her during a 1964 production of Shakespeare’s Othello. However, despite the dramatics, she still managed to thrive within her industry, appearing in her first film, Child in the House (1956). This small, uncredited role was only the beginning of her life on the screen, as her quick wit gained her numerous roles. She acted alongside Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton in The V.I.P.s (1963). Smith starred in Othello’s 1965 film adaptation next to Oliver once again, receiving her first ever Oscar nomination for the role. She performed in dozens of productions, garnering more fame as she continued to work. 

Maggie Smith’s career spans decades, and in the early 2000s, she starred in her arguably best known role, as Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter movie series. Smith’s acting in the role of McGonagall turned her into one of the most memorable characters in film. Daniel Radcliffe (who plays Harry Potter in the films) described Smith as having a “fierce intellect,” a quality well reflected in the movies. She had maneuvered her way into history by warming the hearts of viewers with her characters ‘tough love’. In her later acting works Smith starred in well known period drama Downton Abbey, playing Violet Crawley–a Dowager Countess. The show reached all the way to 9.9 million viewers at its height. Throughout her entire career, Maggie Smith played various roles, from classic Elizabethian, to modern fantasies, and within them all, she proved time and again her acting prowess. 

Over the decades, Maggie Smith garnered 6 Academy Award nominations, 3 of which she won for. She collected many accolades across the years, including 3 Golden Globe Awards, a Tony Award, and the BAFTA Special Award. Smith not only found her commendations from organizations, but from high ranking figures as well. Smith was held in high regard in the UK, with King Charles describing Smith to have been a “national treasure”, stating that he and Queen Camilla were “deeply saddened” by the actor’s passing. Though impressive, Smith was not adored for the number of trophies on her wall, or her many honors, but rather for the actor she was, and the humble nature she had behind the screens. 

There is no doubt of the monumental effect of Maggie Smith’s death. Many grew up not only admiring her on screen, but also looking up to her composed attitude in the real world. She was an objective success, balancing her humility with her talent. Smith is regarded as a legendary actor, whom without the film industry will be permanently lacking. She helped shape the childhoods of an abundant amount of people across the globe, who now see her passing as another reminder that nothing will remain the same. However, though she has died, her works will continue to live on, and influence the next generations of dreamers. Maggie Smith will forever be remembered as an icon. 

By: Jessica A. Dennehy

Justin Timberlake (43) is an American singer, songwriter, actor, and record producer who first rose to fame as a member of the popular 1990s boy band NSYNC, known for hits like “Bye Bye Bye” and “It’s Gonna Be Me.” After NSYNC permanently went on hiatus in the early 2000s, Timberlake launched a successful solo music career, quickly producing hits like “Cry Me a River” and “Rock Your Body.” He later achieved more success with chart-topping singles like “SexyBack” and “My Love.” His work has earned him multiple Grammy Awards. Timberlake has also been involved in high-profile personal conflicts, notably with pop icon Britney Spears, whom he briefly dated at the peak of his career—and now, he finds himself facing charges of driving while intoxicated (DWI).

The former boy-band star turned solo artist was arrested in Sag Harbor, New York, just after midnight on June 18, 2024. Police reported that Timberlake ran a stop sign in the village center before veering out of his lane – and this wasn’t the first time this had occurred. When officers approached his BMW, he smelled strongly of alcohol. According to court filings, the Tennessee native appeared “bloodshot and glassy-eyed” and performed poorly on sobriety tests. Officers noted his slurred speech, unsteady movements, and his questionable admission that he had consumed just “one martini.” He was reportedly following some friends home at the time.

During a hearing last month, the pop star initially pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor charge of driving while intoxicated and had his driver’s license suspended. However, on September 13th, he agreed to a plea deal for a lesser charge of driving while ability impaired (DWAI). As part of the agreement, Timberlake was required to make a public safety announcement in front of the Sag Harbor Police Station. He was also sentenced to a $500 fine (with an additional $260 surcharge), 25 hours of community service, and a 90-day license suspension. With a net worth of over $250 million, Timberlake will be seen pushing papers for the county for the next few days—and with that, he can hopefully say “Bye Bye Bye” to this inconvenient publicity mishap.

By: Jessica A. Dennehy

On Tuesday, September 10th, the nation gathered to watch what was expected to be the first of many debates for the 2024 presidential race, featuring former President Donald J. Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris. The audience anticipated a thoughtful discussion on how each candidate would shape America if elected President. However, that didn’t quite happen. While there were moments of civility and intelligence, the debate also devolved — a lot. Trump’s comments included many unsubstantiated and, at times, false claims, while Harris frequently baited and challenged him with sharp remarks and rebuttals. David Muir and Lindsey Davis, the ABC moderators for the debate, along with Harris, found themselves fact-checking many of Trump’s statements, which varied from misleading to flat out wrong – and racist.

One of the more memorable moments occurred when Trump referenced the recent influx of Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio. “In Springfield, they’re eating dogs,” the former president claimed. “They’re eating the cats. They’re eating… the pets of the people that live there. And this is what’s happening in our country, and it’s a shame.” David Muir, who, according to some right-wing sources, had become the third participant in the debate by this point, quickly fact-checked the statement, noting, “ABC News reached out to the city manager there. He told us there have been no credible reports of pets being harmed, injured, or abused by individuals within the immigrant community.”
What followed was an interesting back-and-forth, which, may I remind you, was on live television for the entire nation to see:
“Well, I’ve seen people on television. The people on television say my dog was taken and used for food. So maybe he said that, and maybe that’s a good thing to say for a city manager.”
“I’m not taking this from television. I’m taking this from the city manager.”
“People are on television saying the dog was eaten by the people that went there.”
“Again, the Springfield city manager says there’s no evidence of that.”

I don’t know what to say about the people on television, but users of TikTok and other social media platforms took notice of this perplexing segment, with many making tongue-in-cheek jokes, music, and choreographed dances inspired by the absurd claim. Casa Di Music, a TikTok account with over half a million followers, remixed that particular segment, blending Trump and Muir’s lines with a reggaeton beat, which has already garnered over 1.2 million views on the platform. Alternatively-directed TikTok media also includes fan art of Trump and Biden with Chappell Roan’s “Good Luck, Babe!” in the background, Harris’s Coconut Tree remixes, and even more —you’ll find it if you look into it. Just don’t do it on a school account.

The rapid spread of TikTok remixes and social media reactions to the debate highlights how Americans increasingly engage with politics through humor and viral content. Emerson T. Brooking, resident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Digital Forensics Lab, suggests that “maybe they spread it because sharing dumb memes is the closest thing many Americans still have to political participation in this country.” Or maybe the younger generations enjoy receiving news updates in the form of a TikTok dance remix. 

By Hannah Block

Sabrina Carpenter’s career  has reached new levels of success since she released Espresso in April of this year. The chart-topping hit was the lead single off of her latest album, Short N’ Sweet, which came out this August. Also featuring  the songs Please Please Please, and Taste, the highly anticipated album became her first No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Her previous album, Emails I Can’t Send, peaked at No. 23. It seems to be a year of firsts for Carpenter as she recently won her first VMA, with Espresso claiming  the title of Song of the Year.

Carpenter  expressed her gratitude for her  listeners’ support  in an Instagram post, finishing off her caption with: “I can’t wait to see you on the road.” Taylor Swift, who  Carpenter  opened  for on the international leg of The Eras Tour, left a supportive, all-caps comment: “SUMMER OF SABRINA AND MAY IT CONTINUE FOREVER.” 

And it just might; Sabrina will soon be able to celebrate her  overwhelming success  with fans around the world as she prepares to kick off her sold out Short N’ Sweet Tour in Columbus, Ohio on September 23rd. But despite what the first  half of  its title may suggest, the tour will not be too short, stretching seven months and closing in Milan, Italy on March 26th, 2025.

Many fans assumed that the title choice of Short N’ Sweet was a nod to Carpenter’s 4′ 11″ height, but Carpenter says that’s not the only reason behind the name. In an interview with Zane Lowe, she said: “It was not because I’m vertically challenged. It was really like I thought about some of these relationships and how some of them were the shortest I’ve ever had and they affected me the most.” 

She tells Lowe: “…I’m comfortable in my mind, and allowing moments to be the moments that I’m in.” However, she knows that there’s always room for growth. She goes on to explain that the “thing”  about any project, such as an album, is that they’re all made up of moments, possibly moments that took course over multiple  years. She recognizes  that it will be difficult for some listeners to understand that she’s no longer the same person that she was when she wrote certain songs.

Although Carpenter seems to embrace change on the whole, her rapid increase in popularity  has still proved itself to be a major adjustment. On the bright side,  she’s not alone in feeling overwhelmed. She has turned to her friend, singer-songwriter Chappell Roan, who has too began to reach extreme heights of fame very quickly, for support. According to Roan, Carpenter “just feels like everything is flying, and she’s barely hanging on.”