How it inspired me: What really inspires me here is James Herbert himself. In the words of The Observer, this dirty little book “irrevocably mutated British horror.” Take from that what you will And the result of all that derision and opposition? The paperback sold out in three weeks (it had a 100,000 copy print-run) and a star (James Herbert) was born. They feared for their children’s delicate sensibilities. They very publicly called James Herbert’s morals and sanity into question. They called it cheap for its excess of gore. What it taught me: Critics and consumers absolutely lambasted James Herbert when The Rats came out. I haven’t seen it, but it definitely looks like good, vintage horror cheese Other media: The 1982 film, Deadly Eyes, is based on The Rats. I call this a standout achievement because, as a lifelong lover of horror, I rarely wince and cringe at the things I read - but let me tell you guys, there were times James Herbert had my skin (and my stones) crawling … that’s saying somethingįun Facts: The Rats was James Herbert’s first novel, and the first one I read Standout achievements: The Rats is unflinching in its portrayal of violence, mutilation, and death. At first, you wonder where he’s going with things, but soon, you find yourself so wrapped up you just go along with it, enjoying the ride

An example can be seen when he gives us the history of the character Mary Kelly. But James Herbert does it with great finesse and aplomb.

In lesser hands, backstory can feel stilted and … removed. Greatest strengths: One of the things that impressed me most about The Rats - and James Herbert’s books in general - is how smoothly it relays backstory and exposition. James Herbert, who isn’t known for pulling punches, really outdoes himself here Most memorable scene: Karen Blakely and her baby. Foskins, the Minister of Health Stephen Howard, a researcher Ferris, an exterminator Notable characters: Harris, an art teacher Mr. ‘Are there any safe places around here anymore?’” (There aren’t in this book, you guys, I’ll tell you that much) My favorite quote: “Harris smiled thinly at him.

The rats james herbert review