Do you remember the excitement of picking up a Goosebumps book, gazing at its vivid, eerie cover while chills ran down your spine? If you grew up in the 90s, chances are you do. In this episode of Horror Heals, Corey and Kendall welcome the ultimate 90s kid—Jarid, also known as @90sKidLibrary. Jarid’s love for horror goes deeper than most basements, especially since his basement serves as an extensive library filled with Goosebumps, Fear Street, and all things spine-chilling.
But horror is more than just frights. As Jarid points out, there’s a profound psychological reason behind our fascination with monsters, suspense, and tales that make us jump.
The Nostalgia Factor: Growing Up with Goosebumps
For many, Goosebumps was the “gateway drug” to the world of horror. With striking covers by Tim Jacobus, these books were both colorful and creepy—a perfect blend that captured the essence of childhood curiosity. Jarid, who possesses an original painting by Jacobus, shares how these stories ignited his imagination and led him into the realm of horror fandom.
Corey and Kendall reminisce about their own childhood adventures, sneaking peeks at The Exorcist or flipping through Fangoria magazines. “I was terrified, but I just couldn’t look away,” Corey chuckles.
Horror as Catharsis: Why We Enjoy Being Scared
So, what is it about horror that captivates us? Jarid, a psychology professor, delves into several intriguing theories:
- Catharsis: Horror allows us to release built-up fear and anxiety. As Wes Craven famously stated, “Horror doesn’t create fear; it releases it.”
- Safe Thrills: Horror offers a controlled setting where we can experience fear while still feeling secure. It’s not like skydiving—it’s the emotional equivalent.
- Unconscious Connection: Horror taps into something profound within us. Tales of monsters and fear are found in cultures throughout history because they resonate on a universal, subconscious level.
Nature vs. Nurture: Are Horror Fans Born or Made?
Jarid’s love for horror began in childhood, watching Gremlins and Power Rangers. Was it “nature”—a trait he was born with—or “nurture”—influences from his surroundings? Corey and Kendall discuss Kendall’s own experiences regarding this debate: his adoptive parents were horror enthusiasts, while his birth family largely was not. The takeaway? For many, it’s a blend of both, an inherent curiosity shaped by our environment.
Collecting Horror: From Tim Jacobus to Monster Mania
Horror fandom often manifests through collecting. Jarid shares his love for Goosebumps and “Paperbacks from Hell,” while Corey reveals his passion for autographs and horror-themed artwork. From rare posters to convention treasures, the conversation dives into the joys (and struggles) of horror collecting—especially as prices soar and wall space shrinks.
Why It Matters
At its core, horror provides more than scares. It connects us to our emotions, provides a safe space for catharsis, and reminds us of the thrill of imagination. Whether through Goosebumps, Gremlins, or Greek mythology, horror speaks to something primal within us.
As Corey and Kendall wrap up their chat with Jarid, it’s clear: horror heals, entertains, and unites us. Whether you’re collecting Tim Jacobus art, binging Fear Street, or revisiting your Goosebumps favorites, the joy of horror transcends fear—it brings us together.
