Renowned horror author Clive Barker is launching a new anthology series called “Library of the Dead,” which will become available exclusively through Kickstarter starting August 18. The project comprises three volumes: “Fear Eternal,” “Pyres of Bedlam,” and “Dark Descents,” serving as a spiritual continuation of Barker’s influential “Books of Blood” collection. The anthology combines previously unpublished and hard-to-find stories that delve into themes of obsession, mythology, beauty, and horror, with each volume featuring black-and-white illustrations, poetry, and original cover designs.
Beyond the main trilogy, the Kickstarter campaign includes several exclusive offerings for supporters. A remastered leather-bound edition of “Books of Blood” will be available, presenting the original six-volume series in two volumes and incorporating new illustrations alongside classic stories such as “Rawhead Rex,” “The Midnight Meat Train,” and “The Forbidden.” Additional collectible items include “The Art of Clive Barker Portfolio,” a curated collection of fine art prints inspired by the original book illustrations, and the “Library of the Dead Book Coffin,” a decorative display cabinet designed to showcase the complete collection.
The project is being overseen by long-time collaborators Phil and Sarah Stokes and will be released through Clive Barker Ink, Barker’s personal creative imprint, alongside Ensata Press, a publisher specializing in horror and dark fantasy literature. Barker achieved prominence during the 1980s with “Books of Blood” and has since seen multiple adaptations of his work brought to film, including the “Hellraiser” and “Candyman” franchises.
