Night of the Living Dummy, written by R.L. Stine, is a classic Goosebumps book that is likely the most recognizable amongst the series that has been terrifying readers for years. In the seventh book in the series, Lindy finds a ventriloquist’s dummy named Slappy and quickly becomes enchanted by him. However, when her sister Kris gets her own dummy and strange things start happening, they realize there may be more to these dummies than meets the eye.
While made for a younger audience, Night of the Living Dummy is widely considered the scariest of the series of books filled with suspense and eerie moments that send shivers down even the most experienced reader. Stine has always done a fantastic job telling stories that will frighten the intended audience while also allowing the older generations relive the experience without losing out on the story.
The chilling tale of a ventriloquist dummy that comes to life and causing chaos is fear that most people will admit to be true, making Night of the Living Dummy all the more unsettling. The low growl to their voice adds a layer of creepiness that will stick with you even after you turn the final page.
Night of the Living Dummy is some fans of Goosebumps favorite novel, but we find it falls just below a few others and does not give us the full experience as other Goosebumps tales. While we believe there are not many, if any, bad Goosebumps books some sit above the rest and Night of the Living Dummy is just not one of them. The book does give a scare and does the job it set out to do, it’s just not as much for us.
Despite our feelings for the book, Night of the Living Dummy is one of the most well-known of the Goosebumps books and still manages to scare. At just over 130 pages, it is a must-read for those looking for nostalgic Goosebumps terror.
Night of the Living Dummy is a gripping tale that will give you eerie feelings from start to finish. With its all-too-real fears and unforgettable characters, this book has left a lasting impression on many fans of the Goosebumps series. Whether you are the 8-12 age range the book was intended for or you are in you late-30s, this book is worth your time.
Released in May 1993, Night of the Living Dummy is the seventh book in the Classic Goosebumps series.
Night of the Living Dummy is available wherever books are sold. Check out the audiobook on Libro.fm narrated by Carol Schneider.
