Mystery novel enthusiasts proudly assert that their deep knowledge of thriller and horror literature equips them with the skills to solve real-life murder mysteries. A study involving 2,000 avid readers of horror, mystery, thriller, and true crime genres reveals that a significant 61% feel capable of cracking a real-world mystery. However, when faced with the hypothetical scenario of surviving a horror plot, only 41% expressed confidence in their survival instincts. This research, orchestrated by Talker Research and commissioned by ThriftBooks, delved into aspects of how these genres affect readers' perceptions of safety and character identification.
Interestingly, men seem more self-assured about their survival capabilities than women, with a confidence level of 51% compared to 37% among females. Participants were asked about character stereotypes in scary books; 26% identified with the sidekick role, while 12% admitted they'd likely be the victim. Interestingly, over one in ten readers (13%) saw themselves as the villain, while only 45% believed they could embody the hero or detective. On identifying villains in everyday life, 68% of readers claimed they could sense a 'bad' person by the vibes they emit, with women showing a slightly higher perception rate than men (70% vs. 61%).
Everyday individuals fitting the villain archetype were often identified as neighbors (44%) and, surprisingly, family members (31%). Reflecting on safety habits, 68% of horror book fans have adopted cautious behaviors such as avoiding sharing personal details with strangers (63%), not answering unfamiliar calls or texts (62%), refraining from posting their location (52%), and abstaining from sharing personal info online (51%). After engaging with a thrilling read, readers often experience a mix of emotions, feeling energized (29%), fearful (28%), and wary of strangers (22%).
Over half (54%) confessed to being more easily startled post-reading, and it usually takes about two days for their heightened senses to settle. Additionally, measures like sleeping with the lights on (33%), checking under the bed (21%), and ignoring the doorbell (20%) were common among readers post-reading. Reflecting on these behaviors, Barbara Hagen from ThriftBooks notes the relatable impact of scary books on readers, highlighting the blend of chilling, energizing, and enthralling elements that have cemented the genre's popularity. Most readers began their foray into this world at the age of 12, with 60% describing an immediate addiction.
Particularly among Gen Z (73%), millennials (76%), and Gen X (72%), compared to baby boomers (45%). Gateway novels such as 'Carrie,' 'Dracula,' and 'Goosebumps' remain popular. Favored horror reads include 'Goosebumps,' 'It,' and 'The Shining,' with Stephen King (68%) emerging as the overwhelmingly preferred horror author across generations. Barbara Hagen encourages readers to immerse themselves in a scary book, emphasizing the perfect time of year to indulge in this captivating genre.
