This post is part of 805's “My Home Library” series that features writers and artists enjoying their home libraries during the pandemic and beyond.
Growing up in Pittsburgh, one of my passions was watching Chiller Theatre on Saturdays. I began to search for other fun vampire-based fiction, and my collection grew. I am a bit picky: the leading immortal character must have a bit of heart—more human than animal, who wrestles with right and wrong. I think it is the struggle with immortality and love when you are a damaged creature of the night that is so fascinating.
Luckily for me, there are a lot of great authors of this lore out there besides the classic by Bram Stoker. Besides the books of Anne Rice, who is the master of this genre, a few of my other favorites titles with vampires we love are A Discovery of Witches, by Deborah Harkness; Twilight, by Stephanie Meyer (yes, I liked it!); The Historian, by Elizabeth Kostova; The Delicate Dependency, by Michael Tabot; and the fun young adult series by Ellen Schreiber, Vampire Kisses.
My cousin and I growing up were addicted to Vampirella comic books which fueled my love of reading and drawing figures. I truly think I majored in art because of these early graphic novels. I cannot leave them out as great vampire tales. I also began to collect vampire art posters, vintage memorabilia, and old gothic books as well. I keep my collection in a nook of my living room with a cozy chair and a reading lamp. This is my perfect spot on a dark stormy night curled up with a glass of dark red wine.
Christine Culp is going on her 11th year with Manatee County Libraries. Her passion is working with youth, developing programs, inspiring imagination, and instilling a love of reading. She has worn many hats on her journey to librarianship, including a designer for Hallmark Cards, a free lance illustrator and sculptor, an art teacher, a storyteller, and a mom.
Florida is her third home base, having been raised in Pittsburgh, Pa., then working and raising a family in Kansas City. Both spots are still dear to her heart. "Mr. Rogers was a big inspiration to me growing up. If I can bring smiles to the face of a child, I have done my best."
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