For a generation of readers, author R.L. Stine needs only one word as introduction: Goosebumps.
Goosebumps is, as ’90s kids (and now their children—scary!) know, a series of horror novels targeted to young readers (ages 7-12). Stine practically invented the kids’ horror genre in 1992; he had to be goaded into writing the first Goosebumps novel by his editors, who realized the market was ready for spooky books for that particular age range. Until then, he’d been writing teen horror and humor.
Stine debuted with Welcome to Dead House, delivering an irresistible blend of tween protagonists, fast-paced action, and nightmarish characters that would make the series a worldwide bestseller. Fast forward 30 years, 235+ titles, and 400 million books sold, and Stine is officially considered (according to the Guinness Book of World Records, no less) one of our most prolific authors.
Stine’s latest iteration of the Goosebumps series is fittingly titled House of Shivers, making him the perfect guest judge for Dictionary.com’s 2023 spooky writing contest—Haunting Hooks: Haunted House Edition.
Don’t miss the Haunting Hooks winner announcement on Oct. 31!
Dictionary.com asked Stine five questions about himself and his work.
A Q&A with Goosebumps author R.L. Stine
At Dictionary.com, we have a tradition of asking new team members to choose three words that represent who they are and to explain the reasons behind their choices. What are three words that represent you, and why?
Stine: Oscar Mayer Bologna.
First words that came to mind. Maybe I’m hungry.
You’ve shared that you wrote your first stories at a young age. What were your first stories about? What are some of your strongest memories of falling in love with words and writing?
Stine: I drew comic books when I was in fourth grade. My superhero was named Sooper Stooge. He was the worst superhero on earth. He would fly headfirst into brick buildings. I thought my comics were hilarious. But all my friends told me my drawings were awful. I guess that’s why I had to be a writer.
Your books—including the Goosebumps series, which was first published more than 30 years ago!—are now beloved by multiple generations of readers, and in particular by teachers and students. In your view, what is the key to developing and maintaining a lifelong love of reading?
Stine: Finding things you like to read. When young people have books thrust upon them, they often resist. When they choose their own titles, it is easier for them to find books they will enjoy and to develop a love of reading.
You’re an inspiration to so many writers. What inspires and fuels your creativity? And what advice do you have for aspiring writers looking to make their creativity come alive (or maybe undead!) on the page?
Stine: The readers inspire my creativity. Knowing that readers are waiting for the next book is exhilarating and a great motivator. My advice to beginning writers is to think of writing as fun. Don’t listen to people who say writing is hard.
Let’s talk about crafting “hooks.” You’ve said that your writing process includes outlining your books chapter by chapter at the beginning. Where in the process do you typically perfect that opening scene and the opening lines? What makes for a captivating opening?
Stine: When I write a plot outline, I concentrate on the first chapter. It has to show readers what the book will be about, who the main characters are, what kind of scares and adventures to expect. The first chapter has to start the action—and needs a surprise at the end of the chapter to hook the readers and keep them turning pages.
