The Exorcist (The Exorcist, #1) in DC Public Library

Feb 29, 2024 Prince William Public Libraries rated it it was amazing

Shelves: adult, fiction, horror

If you haven't read "The Exorcist" or seen the 1973 film of the same name, you probably have at least heard of it and know a little bit of what it's about. At this point, this supernatural horror story has become a part of the American zeitgeist. Just about everyone knows what "The Exorcist" is, even if they only know about certain standout scenes (I'm looking at you… head spin, spider-walk, and pea soup. If you know, you know.)

"The Exorcist" is a horror novel that was released in 1971, written If you haven't read "The Exorcist" or seen the 1973 film of the same name, you probably have at least heard of it and know a little bit of what it's about. At this point, this supernatural horror story has become a part of the American zeitgeist. Just about everyone knows what "The Exorcist" is, even if they only know about certain standout scenes (I'm looking at you… head spin, spider-walk, and pea soup. If you know, you know.)

"The Exorcist" is a horror novel that was released in 1971, written by William Peter Blatty. The main story covers the demonic possession of eleven-year-old Regan and the lengths that her famous actress mother, Chris Macneil, goes to save her. Through the narrative, we also meet two priests from different generations, the elderly Father Merrin and the younger Father Karras, who work to free Regan from the clutches of the demon Pazuzu.

If you have only seen the film, you will find that the book generally follows the same path while taking its time to explain certain parts in greater depth and detail. Want to know how difficult it is to receive permission to perform an exorcism? The book explains it! Curious about what medical procedures are performed before settling on the diagnosis of demonic possession? It's in there! There's even a murder mystery in the book that is barely touched on in the film.

So, is this book the "most terrifying novel ever written," like what's printed on the cover of the 40th anniversary edition? I would say no, but there are some very creepy and unsettling scenes. Even if you've already seen the movie, I would absolutely recommend checking out the book. I read this book for the Read by Dawn: Horror Fiction Book Club and met other horror-lit fans virtually to discuss it in January 2024. The discussion touched on the themes of loss, mourning, healthcare, and death and was lively and enthusiastic. For someone who loves horror, this book felt like visiting an old friend. Being reintroduced to the characters I was familiar with from the film was incredibly satisfying… even if I knew what awful things were coming for each of them. Easy 5/5 stars!

https://prin.na2.iiivega.com/search/c...

- Review by Matt M., Haymarket Gainesville Library Staff

Click here to find the book at Prince William Public Libraries. ...more

1 like · Like · see review

Jul 27, 2021 Meghan rated it liked it

And I think---I think the point is to make us despair; to reject our own humanity, Damien: to see ourselves as ultimately bestial; as ultimately vile and putrescent; without dignity; ugly; unworthy. ~ William Peter Blatty

Like · see review