Bestselling horror author and journalist Russell W. Dickson has released his latest novel, Children Shouldn’t Play with The Dead. Drawing from his childhood experiences, the book immerses readers in a dark, atmospheric tale set in the fictional town of Gloversville, New York. The novel is now available on Amazon, with a wider rollout planned across major platforms.
A Personal Story of Horror and Resilience
Dickson’s journey to becoming a writer was not without challenges. As a child, he struggled with dyslexia, spending much of his early education in special classes that left him feeling isolated. “We were separated from other kids in special classrooms, small buses, and lunchrooms. I was picked on incessantly, and as a latchkey kid, I turned to books and my imagination to escape reality,” he said.
A Haunting Tale Inspired by Real-Life Roots
Children Shouldn’t Play with The Dead follows a protagonist haunted by childhood memories of Danny Podder, a rebellious figure from a troubled family. Set in a decaying town shaped by the once-thriving leather industry, the story explores dark rituals, eerie legends, and a sinister presence known as the Leather Man.
“I moved to the Johnstown/Gloversville area after college and was fascinated by its history. It was once the glove-making capital of the world but later fell into decline, leaving abandoned warehouses and mills surrounded by forests—an ideal setting for my latest book,” Dickson explained.
Book Launch and Public Appearance
Dickson will be appearing at the Hudson Valley Mac & Cheese Festival 9 on Saturday, April 26, 2025 VIP 1-5pm, starting at 11:30am at Brothers Winery in Washingtonville, NY. Fans can meet him at his booth for a book signing and photo opportunity.
Availability
Children Shouldn’t Play with The Dead is currently available in Kindle and Paperback formats on Amazon, with an expanded release coming soon on Barnes & Noble, Lulu, Kobo, Walmart, Google Books, Apple Books, Smashwords, Chapters Indigo, Book Depository, and Scribd.
Children Shouldn’t Play With The Dead
- ASIN : B0DYJXGLW6 Click to buy the book
- Publisher : Independently published (February 25, 2025)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 65 pages
- ISBN-13 : 979-8312222166
- Item Weight : 5.3 ounces
- Dimensions : 6 x 0.16 x 9 inches
Russell W. Dickson is also the author of the hit novella, The Man Next Door – see the review.
