The Vampire's Bones!

A few posts ago, a comment mentioned having to "re-read the story a few times to understand what was actually going on", and (for me anyway), the same thing applies with today's wicked vampire encounter, via the November 1952 issue of Adventures into the Unknown #37. It's still a wonderfully weird story, and I love the snooty aggressive nature and looks of the vicious vamp here. But our hapless hero, Gary Owens (not to be confused with the legendary Laugh-In announcer) continually talks about something on the first few pages that artist Pete Riss inexplicably chose not to even bother adding into the visuals. What really makes all of this even more odd is that it's even the freakin' title of the story! Or maybe I've just read this story incorrectly and missed something, who knows? Anyway, let 'ol Karswell know what you think. There are a few more vampires fluttering our way over the next couple of posts as well, so stay toodily tombed...

The Devil and the War Bride

One more bedeviled bride story to end out THOIA's February Freak-A-Thon, and I hope everyone enjoyed the eerie assortment we featured this month! Annnnd similar to one of our previous tales where we saw an evil voodoo witch doctor have a sudden change of heart in the climax, can it be true that even Ol Scratch himself might possibly be played and swayed as well? Read today's post from the June 1953 issue of Adventures into the Unknown #44 to find out! (And a very special thanks to Ferocious Phil for the scans too!)

The Raven Sisters

Today we lead off with another wild ACG tale, where (damn it!) typical blonde headed goodness once again triumphs over sexy, raven haired witchery. I can’t wait for the day when I finally get to see things resolved the other way around... f’realz.

From the June-July 1952 issue of Out of the Night #3

*Excerpt from COME BACK by the MISFITS

(listen)

The Soul Collectors

Here’s an ACG yarn that starts off with an interesting premise and then takes a bizarre twist, practically turning into a Wolff & Byrd: Couselors of the Macabre case file. (Batton Lash obviously read this as a kid.) Nicely designed ghoulies, but is that supposed to be a happy ending?!

From the Feb 1953 issue of Adventures into the Unknown #40

EXTRA! EXTRA! I spoke to soon! EMAIL FROM BATTON LASH:

Hey, Karswell- Your blog was brought to my attention and I must say two things: One, I love your blog and immediately bookmarked it. It’s right up my alley. And two, I have to say that I have never seen that ACG story “The Soul Collectors” until I read it on your blog! I appreciate your mention of Wolff & Byrd. I agree with you the “happy ending” is questionable. Alanna Wolff wouldn’t have rest until she convinced the judge her man’s soul was unjustly collected! Regardless, I liked the artwork and am curious who the artist is. Anyone know? Keep up the good work and keep digging up those cool gems!
Batton Lash

PS= Anyone wanting to learn more about Wolff & Byrd, can go to http://www.exhibitapress.com and http://www.supernaturallaw.com. Thanks!