Welcome to Noir Nightmares' unique book list, a curated selection spotlighting African American horror. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the genre, this list offers a blend of tried-and-true voices and exciting new perspectives.
Beyond the Screen: Books That Will Haunt You
A Blend of Voices
Our selection criteria emphasize both the established masters and the fresh, innovative voices shaping the future of African American horror noir. We're looking for narratives that resonate with authenticity and explore the depths of the human condition within the shadows of horror.
Dive into the Darkness
We encourage you to explore the books on this list and discover the captivating world of African American horror noir. Many of these stories have also been adapted into films, offering a visual feast for noir enthusiasts. Read the books, watch the movies, and delve into the darkness!
Title: It Came from the Trees
Author: Ally Russell
Citation: Russell, A. (2024). It came from the trees. Delacorte Press
Description: It Came from the Trees by Ally Russell is a middle-grade horror novel that follows eleven-year-old Jenna, who joins a new scout troop in a desperate search for her best friend, abducted by a Bigfoot-like creature. As Jenna and her fellow scouts journey into the woods, they must face not only the terrifying monster but also the challenges of survival, the bonds of friendship, and the harsh realities of racism.”
Where to find it: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/720273/it-came-from-the-trees-by-ally-russell
Title: Model Home
Author: Rivers Solomon
Citation: Solomon, R. (2024). Model Home. MCD Books.
Description: The novel follows Ezri and their siblings as they return to their childhood home in an affluent Dallas gated community after the death of their parents. Within its walls, they are forced to confront buried secrets, painful family history, and the haunting legacies of race and segregation they endured as the neighborhood’s only Black family. Blending horror with literary depth, the story reimagines the haunted-house genre while exploring themes of generational trauma, identity, memory, and the complicated meaning of home.”
Where to find it: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780374607135/modelhome/
Title: Jackal
Author: Erin E. Adams
Citation: Adams, E. E. (2022). Jackal. Hyperion Avenue.
Description: Liz Rocher reluctantly returns to her mostly white hometown of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, for her best friend’s wedding. But when the bride’s young daughter vanishes during the reception—leaving behind only a bloodied scrap of fabric—Liz recognizes a terrifying pattern. Years ago, another Black girl disappeared under eerily similar circumstances, her body later found mutilated in the woods. As Liz digs into the town’s dark history, she uncovers a horrifying truth: for decades, Black girls have been taken, and now the evil in the forest has set its sights on her.
Where to find it: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/707472/jackal-by-erin-e-adams/