Dracula by Bram Stoker

A Signet Classics, Dracula seemed fitting for Halloween. I must admit, I was quite hesitant to start his novel since I am easily scared and my mind tends to wander and play tricks especially at night. Even now I am afraid to take my dog out once more before retiring for bed. Wow, can you see how I am writing like the people in the book. It is still fresh in my mind and a little scary. This novel starts off keeping your attention as Jonathan is held prisoner in Dracula's castle, but it quickly loses pace when we are transfered to England and introduced to all the other characters in the book. I found it very difficult to continue reading since I prefer quick reads and this definately takes time to read. It is more difficult as well because of the old, proper writing. It is told through diaries and wired posts of everyone involved in this story so you constantly change from one person to another, but it does well staying in a chronological order. There were times that I did not understand how a certain entry really added to the story, but it all fits together. By the time you finally get to the end you get hooked as Dracula escapes and is being hunted. It is not so much a terrifying story as everyone is very familiar with it, but how it is written messes with your mind and makes you start to second guess what is real and what can not possibly happen such as Dracula showing up when I take the dog out or standing by my bed when I wake up in the middle of the night. It is a classic book that all should read, but be ready to have to push through since you will find yourself wanting to drop the book and give up for something easier to read.