Psycho — Robert Bloch

“The basis for one of the most iconic horror films of the 1960s . . . [Bloch's] unique true-crime slant to storytelling set the tone.” -- Sublime Horror

The story was all too real -- indeed this classic was inspired by the real-life story of Ed Gein, a psychotic murderer who led a dual life. Alfred Hitchcock too was captivated, and, the year after it was released, he turned the book into one of the most-loved horror films of all time.

Norman Bates loves his Mother. She has been dead for the past twenty years, or so people think. Norman knows better though. Ever since leaving the hospital, he has lived with Mother in the old house up on the hill above the Bates Motel. One night, after a beautiful woman checks into the motel, Norman spies on her as she undresses. Norman can't help but spy on her. Mother is there though. She is there to protect Norman from his filthy thoughts. She is there to protect him with her butcher knife.

“[To a horror junkie], Bob Bloch was the pusher with the best stuff. He was a man of wit and gentleness and great, great talent.” -- Stephen King, in Robert Bloch: Appreciations of the Master

“Psycho all came from Robert Bloch's book.” -- Alfred Hitchcock

“Icily terrifying!” -- The New York Times

“Robert Bloch is one of the all-time masters.” -- Peter Straub