Well sticking with last weeks theme I thought I would review two books that I found helpful to get me prepared from my interview of Vlad. Both are reference books of sorts one focusing on Vampire Lore around the world and the other focusing on the Vampire in Pop Culture.

Lets start with...

The Lure Of The Vampire by Bertena Varney, MA

summary;
Do you ever wonder where vampires come from? Why women love those hot sexy vampires on television or in books? Why vampires are no longer scary to kids? These and other questions are answered within. Lure of the Vampire is a pop culture reference book that begins with the history and mythology of vampires and ends with interviews of modern living vampires. The author has provided "fun" lists like the Powers of Dracula, Real Live Vampire Murders, Television Shows and African Americans who have played vampires. There are also websites in each section that show the most popular vampire books and even children's shows and books. But, there is a personal twist when it comes to Lure of the Vampire. The author has provided personal essays from national and international vampire authors as well as her own. They range from a personal look at vampires in mythology to the romantic lust filled vampire. There are also interviews with various groups and individuals involved in the vampire community. Lure of the Vampire: A Pop Culture Reference Book of Lists, Websites, and "Very Telling" Personal Essays is a perfect quick to grab reference book for the vampire fan or author. It is concise enough to assist you in finding links to what you are looking for without our being too cumbersome and confusing.

My take;
Bertena Varney has divided her book up into easy to get through sections. She has some excellent interviews as well as some original stories mixed in. She is obviously a lover of all things Vampire and that feeds through in her pages. The main focus of his book is the vampire in movies, books and tv. This one was a fun read and worth keeping on the shelf for future reference.

Now the second one is another great read

Vampires: A Field Guide to the Creatures That Stalk the Night by Bob Curran

Summary;

Vampires is a unique, lavishly illustrated work that explores the rich diversity of vampire belief and lore, ranging from countries as diverse as Japan, Sweden and Ireland, looking at their historical origins, and setting them in their cultural context.

My Take:
Vampires was an excellent book for anyone interested in the history of the vampire legend. Bob Curran takes us through different lands telling each areas tale in short easy to read segments. It is the kind of book you can read from cover to cover or just flip to an area of interest.
I especially liked the tales of the vampires close to my New England home. I had honestly no idea there were so many tales in this part of the world I have always thought Vampires were from Europe. I also found the illustrations beautifully done. They remind me of the types of posters you would buy on a trip to Salem, Ma.
If you enjoy the occasional Fairy Tale and have an interest in Vampires and their Lore you will enjoy this book.