When it comes to horror, there's nothing quite like a spine-chilling story that keeps you on the edge of your seat. If you're looking for a thrilling ride with diverse voices and perspectives, we've curated a list of horror books featuring BIPOC characters. From eerie ghost tales to heart-pounding thrillers, these books are perfect for anyone ready to dive into the dark and twisted corners of their imagination.
The White Guy Dies First: 13 Scary Stories Of Fear And Power by Terry J. Benton-Walker
This anthology is a collection of chilling tales that explore fear, power, and identity. Benton-Walker masterfully crafts stories that not only terrify but also shed light on the unique experiences of BIPOC characters in a world that often sidelines their voices. Each story is a gripping journey that challenges the status quo, making it a must-read for teens seeking both scares and substance.
The Taking of Jake Livingston by Ryan Douglass
Jake Livingston sees dead people. As one of the few Black kids at his private school, life is already hard enough without the added horror of being haunted by vengeful spirits. When a malevolent ghost targets Jake, he must confront his darkest fears and uncover the truth before it's too late. Ryan Douglass weaves a tale of supernatural suspense that tackles issues of race, identity, and survival.
Horrid by Katrina Leno
Jane North-Robinson moves to a dilapidated house in Maine after her father's death. As she uncovers the secrets of her new home, Jane realizes something sinister lurks within its walls. "Horrid" is a gothic horror novel that explores grief, mental illness, and family secrets, all through the lens of a complex BIPOC protagonist.
Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas
Yadriel, a trans boy determined to prove his gender to his traditional Latinx family, accidentally summons the ghost of his school's bad boy instead of his deceased cousin. As Yadriel and the ghost, Julian, work together to uncover the truth of Julian's death, they also find themselves falling for each other. Aiden Thomas blends Latinx culture, LGBTQ+ themes, and supernatural elements in this compelling and eerie tale.
White Smoke by Tiffany D. Jackson
Marigold’s family moves to a new house, hoping for a fresh start, but they soon discover that their new home holds dark secrets. As eerie events unfold, Marigold must confront her own past and the horrors lurking in the shadows. Tiffany D. Jackson delivers a modern ghost story that deals with themes of mental health, family dynamics, and systemic racism.
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
In this adult crossover novel, Noemí Taboada travels to a remote mansion in the Mexican countryside to save her cousin. She discovers a world of dark secrets, haunting visions, and a family’s twisted history. Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s lush writing and gripping plot make "Mexican Gothic" a standout in contemporary horror fiction.
Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo
While not a traditional horror story, "Clap When You Land" explores the real-life horrors of loss, family secrets, and identity. When a plane crash kills their father, two sisters from different worlds—one in the Dominican Republic and one in New York City—discover each other and the truth about their father’s double life. Elizabeth Acevedo’s powerful storytelling and verse make this a poignant and gripping read.
So whether you’re looking for supernatural chills, psychological horror, or gothic tales, these books featuring BIPOC characters offer a diverse range of terrifying experiences. Dive into these stories and let the fear, and the power, take hold.
What BIPOC teen horror do you think should be on this list? Let us know in the comments.
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