Richard Matheson: The Best Novels by the Legendary Horror Author

Stephen King credits Richard Matheson as one of his greatest influences as a writer. Richard Matheson is the famed author of several novels and short story collections in the horror, fantasy and science fiction genres, as well as multiple screenplays. If you are a fan of horror novels and you aren't reading Richard Matheson, you should be. Here are some of the best novels by Richard Matheson.

One. I Am Legend. Before the blockbuster film starring Will Smith hits theaters this December 14th, head to your local bookstore and purchase the novel, originally published in 1954. The story is of Robert Neville, the last living man on earth. Only he is not alone. Every other man, woman and child has become a vampire. I Am Legend is a tale of survival, a masterpiece you will remember long after you turned the last page. The newest edition includes several of Richard Matheson's finest short stories.

Two. Hell House. Originally published in 1971, Hell House is one of the greatest haunted house novels ever written. Four people are retained to investigate the hellish Belasco House, believed to be inhabited by the dead. The four are tempted and tormented from the day they set in the foot in the Belasco House to the day they decide to try to leave.

Three. A Stir of Echoes. This novel, originally published in 1958, was adapted into the 1999 film starring Kevin Bacon. It's the story of Tom Wallace, an ordinary man who learns he has extraordinary psychic powers that are as frightening as they are compelling. Tom's ordinary life is soon transformed into a waking nightmare, as he receives a terrifying message from beyond the grave.

Four. The Incredible Shrinking Man. This is the terrifying story of Scott Carey, who is getting smaller and smaller each and every day. Soon, he must struggle for his very survival, against creatures that are becoming ever larger in size. Larger to him anyway. And much, much more dangerous.

Five. What Dreams May Come. This novel, originally published in 1978, is one author's imaginative telling of what happens once we die. Chris Nielsen, the protagonist, of course had no idea. Until a tragic accident cut short his own life. This separates him from his beloved wife. Annie, who he ultimately must save from an eternity of despair. Even at the risk of his own soul. What Dreams May Come was adapted into a major motion picture starring Robin Williams in 1998.