Behind the Screams at Spookyworld: The Secrets, Scares, and Stars of America’s Original Horror Theme Park Hardcover – May 12, 2026

Get the photo-illustrated inside story of how David Bertolino built the magical haunted kingdom that sparked an entire eerie industry.A Hollywood extravaganza in rural New England filled with haunted houses, museums, a circus, movie stars, and more, Spookyworld turned Halloween into a season-long celebration. During its original twelve-year run, Spookyworld sparked a new phenomenon, bringing us haunted mansions and scary stories that would shape the world of horror fandom for years to come. In Behind the Screams at Spookyworld, Bertolino artfully illustrates how he created a never-before-imagined industry, with candid appraisals and intimate memories from the stars that floated through the park, alongside hundreds of rare photographs.With forewords by Alice Cooper and Linda Blair, this groundbreaking book illustrates just how important Spookyworld was for the Halloween industry. It covers an array of scary subjects, including:The Hauntrepreneur himself, David BertolinoThe evolution and creation of the parkThe stunts that made the park infamous among its fans and detractorsAnecdotes from horror’s biggest stars in film and TVAnd so much more!From “Spooky Hayrides” to the “Scaryoke stage,” Spookyworld was a destination for all things horror. Behind the Screams at Spookyworld revives the park that sparked a haunted movement and explores the legacy that remains. Relive the thrills and chills of past years in this rare personal account from the King of Horror. Read more