Scholastic, New York, 1997, 1^st pr.  ISBN 0-590-56892-2.  Soft cover, 114+ pages.  Wraps show light edge and cover wear, small corner bends; tight binding.  Interior clean and unmarked with tanned/browning pages.  ‘A famous horror writer.  That’s what Zackie Beauchamp wants to be.  He’s writing a story about a giant blob monster.  A pink slimy creature who eats up an entire town!  Then Zackie finds the typewriter.  In a burned down antique store.  He takes it home and starts typing.  But there’s something really odd about that typewriter.  Something really dangerous.  Because now every scary word Zackie writes is starting to come true….’ (from rear wrap)

Plot Overview

The story follows Zackie Beauchamp, an imaginative young boy with a passion for horror writing. His latest project, a tale about a monstrous pink blob terrorizing a town, takes an unexpected turn when he discovers an old typewriter in the ruins of a burned-down antique store. Little does Zackie know that this seemingly ordinary machine holds a dark power—whatever he types begins to manifest in reality.

As Zackie’s fictional horrors spring to life, he must confront the consequences of his creativity turned dangerous. The line between imagination and reality blurs, forcing Zackie to find a way to stop the monstrous events he unwittingly unleashed before it’s too late.

Themes and Style

This novel explores the power of storytelling and the responsibility that comes with wielding creativity. It delves into the childhood fascination with fear and the allure of horror, while also addressing the unintended consequences that can arise from one’s actions.

The author’s writing style is engaging and accessible, perfectly suited for middle-grade readers with a penchant for suspense and supernatural thrills. Vivid descriptions and a fast-paced narrative keep readers hooked, while moments of humor and heart ensure the story resonates beyond just scares.

Collector’s Note

This first printing paperback edition is a great find for collectors and fans of vintage children’s horror fiction. The light wear on the covers and the gently browned pages add to its nostalgic charm. It’s a wonderful piece to add to a personal collection or to introduce a new generation to the classic thrills of1990s scholastic horror literature.