Picture a Southern storyteller who spins horror with a side of humor, crafting tales that haunt and charm in equal measure—meet Grady Hendrix! Born in Charleston, South Carolina, this New York Times bestselling author has carved a unique niche in contemporary horror, blending irony, pop culture, and heart. From haunted furniture stores to vampire-slaying book clubs, Hendrix’s quirky narratives have captivated readers worldwide.
With a knack for turning everyday settings into spine-chilling adventures, Hendrix also co-founded the New York Asian Film Festival, showcasing his eclectic influence. His witty prose and genre-bending style make him a standout voice, proving horror can be as hilarious as it is terrifying.
The Making of Grady Hendrix
Grady Hendrix grew up in Mount Pleasant, a Charleston suburb, where he was nicknamed 'Sunshine' and attended Sunday school. After his parents’ divorce at 13, he found solace in public libraries, sparking a lifelong love for stories. He later worked at the American Society for Psychical Research’s library in New York, immersing himself in the paranormal. A New York University graduate, Hendrix started as a freelance journalist, writing for outlets like Playboy, Slate, and The New York Sun, where he honed his sharp, humorous voice.
His pivot to fiction came after the 2008 economic crash hit freelancing hard. Enrolling in the Clarion Writers Workshop in 2009, Hendrix began crafting fiction that resonated with readers, particularly in horror. His early work included co-authoring the young adult series The Magnolia League with friend Katie Crouch, blending Southern charm with supernatural twists.
Grady Hendrix’s Unforgettable Stories
Hendrix’s novels are a masterclass in blending horror with humor and heart. His 2014 debut, Horrorstör, reimagines a haunted IKEA-like store, packaged as a retail catalog with eerie illustrations. It’s been translated into 14 languages and optioned for a TV series. My Best Friend’s Exorcism (2016) is a nostalgic 80s tale of demonic possession and friendship, described as 'Beaches meets The Exorcist,' earning praise from the Wall Street Journal as a 'national treasure.'
The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires (2020), a New York Times bestseller, pits suburban moms against a charismatic vampire, tackling themes of gender roles and community with bloody flair. His 2021 novel, The Final Girl Support Group, explores the lives of horror movie survivors, earning a Goodreads Choice Award for Best Horror. Hendrix’s non-fiction work, Paperbacks from Hell (2017), a Bram Stoker Award winner, celebrates the 70s and 80s horror paperback boom, cementing his status as a genre historian.
His latest, Witchcraft for Wayward Girls (2025), set in a 1970s Florida home for unwed mothers, weaves primal horror with tender friendships, earning starred reviews for its emotional depth. Hendrix’s style—witty, accessible, and layered with social commentary—makes his stories resonate across genres, from horror fans to literary enthusiasts.
Why Grady Hendrix Matters
Grady Hendrix has redefined modern horror by infusing it with humor, heart, and social insight. His ability to humanize characters—whether they’re battling vampires or haunted puppets—creates stories that linger. With over two million books sold and translations in 20+ languages, Hendrix has brought horror to mainstream audiences, proving the genre’s versatility. His work on the New York Asian Film Festival and screenplays like Satanic Panic highlight his cultural impact beyond the page.
Hendrix’s innovative promotion, like his one-man show for The Final Girl Support Group or the Super Scary Haunted Homeschool podcast, keeps readers engaged. He’s a bridge between horror’s pulpy past and its inclusive future, inspiring a new generation of writers and fans to embrace the genre’s wild possibilities.
- Born: Charleston, South Carolina
- Key Works: Horrorstör, My Best Friend’s Exorcism, The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires, Paperbacks from Hell
- Awards: Bram Stoker Award for Paperbacks from Hell, Goodreads Choice Award for The Final Girl Support Group
- Fun Fact: Co-founded the New York Asian Film Festival
Snag My Best Friend’s Exorcism and dive into Grady Hendrix’s wickedly fun horror universe!