Library of Recommended Media

"Ahhhh," sez Sanguinarius in a lofty voice, to you, "so you wanted to drop by and see what media I recommend. I have selected some noteworthy tomes for your perusal." Sanguinarius drops an armload of books down onto a table with a loud whump! A cloud of dust arises, which makes Sangi sneeze and lose all pretense of solemnitude and pompousness. "I have many others," sez Sanguinarius, trying in vein -- er, vain... to recover some dignity. "But, of course, I must make the suggestion that--ACHOO! ... ACHOO! ... ACHOO!" Sanguinarius staggers around aimlessly, sneezing. "Debber bind, just take a look ad dem, but be sure do brig dem back whed you are true wid dem -- ACHOO!"

This is the "Sanguinarius Official Index of Approved Media". Anyone caught viewing materials that are not included herein (including newspapers, recipe cards, and "How-To" films on interior remodelling) will immediately ... uh, hmmm ... um, I don't know... Oh! -- I'll SNEEZE on you!

Anyway, seriously, I do highly recommend these media to all who know English. If you don't speak English, then learn it so you can read and watch these, ok?

I have divided the Library into five sections: Newer Fare, Nonfiction Books, Notable Fiction Books, Documentaries/Films, and Notable Movies. A note: Some books/docus may be out of print, but I have included them, because they may be available through the Amazon.com Marketplace (and because I still recommend them, even if they are not available). Most of these are available from Amazon.com. There may be a *few* which are available through Lulu.com, an independent publisher and bookseller; I'll be sure to note those for you.

"You know you're a vampire when...you rush to the store to get the latest non-fiction vampire book or film just to see how many of your friends are mentioned in there!" (Yippity-skip...)

If you would like to contribute a review(s) of any of these, please send it to me, and I will be happy to consider it for publication. Also, please include what credit/contact information you would like to have included for credit: name, email address, website, etc. (or even just "anonymous" if you wish).

Newer Fare

Real Vampires, Night Stalkers and Creatures from the Darkside, by Brad Steiger.
A chilling chronicle of the often ignored history of vampirism as it has surfaced repeatedly in news articles, historical accounts, and first person interviews, this shocking account of occultist rituals and the inhuman forces that influence them shines a light on the horrifying truth. Revealing that real vampires are not immortal, do not have fangs or sleep in coffins, and have no fear of sunlight or crucifixes, the examination dispels many myths but also confirms the truth behind several traits of real vampires, such as the insatiable thirst for blood and the dream of an eternal soul.

Allure of the Vampire: Our Sexual Attraction to the Undead, by Corvis Nocturnum.
The mere mention of vampires used to be enough to make people think of a nocturnal predator. But over the centuries the vampire has changed from monstrous villain to sexual object, for both men and women alike. Allure of the Vampire examines our intimate attraction to these beings in a detailed manner. Now, join occult author Corvis Nocturnum as he reveals the fascinating evolution of this icon as it has lured and enticed us in folklore, film and books from the days of ancient civilization to the living breathing inhabitants of our modern subculture, the vampire community.

Dictionary of Sanguinese, by Sanguinarius.
An indispensable guide containing all the common jargon, slang, doublespeak, plays on words, etc., used by real vampires to converse with one another, either privately or in public. This lexicon should be an excellent guide and introduction to much of the terminology used in the real vampire community. This edition includes over 60 new terms not contained in the previous, or on the website. Available through Lulu.com.

Vampires Today: The Truth about Modern Vampirism, by Joseph Laycock.
Vampires are not just the stuff of folklore and fiction. This book explores the modern world of vampirism in all its variety. Based upon extensive interviews with members of the Atlanta Vampire Alliance and others within vampire communities throughout the United States, Vampires Today looks at the many expressions of vampirism: "lifestyle vampires", those who adopt a culture and a gothic ascetic associated with the vampires of art and legend; "real vampires", those who believe they must actually consume blood and/or psychic energy for their well being; or others who self-identify in some way as vampires. Is vampirism a religion? Is it a fantasy? Is it a medical condition? Is it a little bit of each?

Embracing the Darkness: Understanding Dark Subcultures, by Corvis Nocturnum.
An in-depth look into the aspects of various dark subcultures of the Goths, Witchcraft, Satanists, BDSM/Fetishists, and Vampyres, incorporating interviews and conversations with well-known and everyday individuals, as well as taking a psychological and historical look at the similarities between these groups. This book attempts to enlighten readers about some of the more positive aspects within the dark culture, and to dispel the notion that the dark is "evil". An unprecedented collection of Satanists, vampires, modern primitives, dark pagans, and gothic artists, all speaking to you in their own words. These are people who have taken something most others find frightening or destructive, and woven it into amazing acts of creativity and spiritual vision.

Hybrid Vampire Handbook, The, by Sappho Wolf.
Vampires are real! Impossible? Not al all. In fact, more and more seekers are finding within and looking into the wisdom and the way of the real vampire community. This is available from Lulu.com.

The Care and Feeding of Vampires: An Energy Workers' Guide to Real Vampirism, by Winged Wolf.
An in-depth exploration of real vampirism for persons who have a background in metaphysics, energy-working, magick, psionics, and other esoteric paths. Includes information on psychically identifying vampires, cures, donating to vampires, and defense against vampiric attacks. Available from Lulu.com.

Quench
Starring: Bo Barret, Mia Moretti. Director: Zack Parker. "Quench is sure to challenge, unsettle, and enlighten any audience that is curious to step deep inside of a world that lives right outside their peripheral view." This is a disturbing movie about a close-knit "family" of blood drinkers, and a stranger who comes into their midst. It's sad and strange, but worth watching. DVD

Non-Fiction Books

A Field Guide to Otherkin, by Lupa.
The Otherkin community is a small but growing subculture of people who identify in some way - spiritually, metaphorically -- as something Other than human. Some resonate with dragons while others believe they were elves in another life and still others resonate with wolves, great cats and other earthly animals. Whether Otherkin yourself, or simply curious, this book is the first to offer you an in depth look into this unique community.

American Vampires: Fans, Victims, Practitioners, by Norine Dresser.
Discusses vampires and vampirism in American pop-culture, the media, cultural icons, etc.

Blood Lust: Conversations with Real Vampires, by Carol Page.
This is from 1989. I don't necessarily agree with Page's views, but it's an interesting book.

Blood Magick, by Seth.
Blood Magick is a synthesis of ancient tradition and contemporary innovations designed for both the discerning adept seeking to incorporate blood into existing disciplines and beginning practitioners taking their first steps into the occult world.

Blood Read: The Vampire As Metaphor in Contemporary Culture.
Editors: Joan Gordon, Veronica Hollinger. "Blood Read is a fresh look at an old form, offering lively, lucid insights into the contemporary explosion of vampire fiction. Nothing else like it exists. This book should set the terms for discussion about vampires for some time to come." -- Brian Attebery, Idaho State University.

Cinematic Vampires: The Living Dead on Film and Television, by John L. Flynn.
Comprehensive information on many, many vampire films from 1896 to 1992.

Complete Vampire Companion, The, by Rosemary Ellen Guiley and J.B. MacAbre.
An entertaining and informative vampire reference book on many aspects of vampires from folklore to contemporary culture, bibliography, filmography, etc.

Deluxe Transitive Vampire, The: The Ultimate Handbook of Grammar for the Innocent, the Eager, and the Doomed, by Karen Elizabeth Gordon.
This is a delightful little book of grammar with many whimsical, fantastical examples, making it fun to read (and learn). I enjoyed reading it thoroughly.

Dracula Cookbook of Blood, The, by Ardin C. Price.
Has authentic recipes from around the world which use blood, along with vampire lore.

Ethical Psychic Vampire, The, by Raven Kaldera.
"This book is a lifesaver. It will help you answer questions like, 'How do I get what I need ethically? What purpose do vampires serve in the human ecosystem? How can I use this talent to benefit others?' Strongly recommended for energy vampires, those who are close to them, and energy workers of all sorts." -- from review by "Honey"

Fallen Angels and Spirits of the Dark, by Robert Masello.
Book about demons, the devil, hell, incubi/succubi, Lilith, ghouls, goblins, vampires, witches, werewolves, zombies, ghosts, and many other dark, mysterious and fabulous creatures of folklore and mythology.

In Search of Dracula: The History of Dracula and Vampires, by Raymond T. McNally and Radu Florescu.
A classic, and a must-have if you're interested in the historical Dracula.

Liquid Dreams of Vampires, by Martin V. Riccardo.
A collection of personal accounts of dreams, and fanstasies involving vampires.

Lust for Blood: The Consuming Story of Vampires, by Olga Hoyt.
Oldie, but goodie that focusses on people throughout history who have had a "lust for blood"; also includes vampire folklore.

Piercing The Darkness: Undercover with Vampires in America Today, by Katherine Ramsland.
Ostensibly chronicling her search for a missing reporter, the book is about the author's excursion into the vampyre subculture/scene, and contains her experiences and interviews with self-styled "vampires" (some who might even be real, hehe). Whatever the case, it's very entertaining reading.

Practical Vampyrism for Modern Vampyres, by Lady CG.
The first handbook for modern vampyres, this handy, easy to read book is geared toward the sanguinarian vampire and deals with such issues as awakening, blood, the community, and life in general. A family history of vampyrism and over a dozen years in the online vampire communities have given Lady CG a unique perspective on the challenges facing modern vampires.

Psychic Vampire Codex, The, by Michelle Belanger.
The Psychic Vampire Codex is the first book to examine the phenomenon and experience of modern vampirism completely from the vampire’s perspective.

Quotable Vampire, The, by David Proctor.
Book of classic and immortal quotes from famous vampire literature, books and movies.

Sacred Hunger, by Michelle Belanger.
Enjoy all of Michelle Belanger's major essays on the fascinating topic of vampires, collected for the first time in one volume. Find out why author Bram Stoker wrote about vampires. Learn about the history and development of the modern vampire community. Explore the allure of the vampire in modern culture, and meet members of the vampire underground who have made this potent archetype a fundamental part of their lives.

Something In The Blood: The Underground World of Today's Vampires, by Jeff Guinn and Andy Grieser.
Something got into the author's blood. I don't know what. :> Book is supposed to be research on real vampires, but the "researcher" didn't bother to verify his information. Good thing he didn't name names.

Unholy Hungers: Encountering the Psychic Vampire in Ourselves and Others, by Barbara E. Hort, David O'Neal (Editor).
The author uses "psychic vampires" figuratively as a term for those who are controlling, manipulative, power-seekers, and discusses how they operate and how to avoid falling into their games. Doesn't actually deal with "psi-vampires".

Vampire, The: A Casebook, by Alan Dundes (Editor).
Explores the vampire in legend, fiction and nonfiction.

Vampire Book: The Encyclopedia of the Undead, by J. Gordon Melton.
A-Z style entries of a huge variety of information on many facets of vampires and vampirism. Just get the thing. I'm sure you'll find it informative, useful and entertaining.

Vampire Encyclopedia, The, by Matthew E. Bunson.
An A-Z compendium on vampires & vampire lore.

Vampire Killers, The: A Horrifying True Story of Bloodshed and Murder, by Clifford L. Linedecker.
An account of the Kentucky "Vampire Cult" Killings.

Vampire Nation, by Arlene Russo.
Arlene Russo, the UK’s foremost vampire expert, has interviewed dozens of real life vampires for this blood-curdling tome. She reveals the strange rituals and rites of vampire lore and the grisly truth behind genuine vampire killings. Vampire Nation teams with toe-curling true tales of how vampire culture is taking the country by storm.

Vampires Among Us, by Rosemary Ellen Guiley.
Not a bad book. Entertaining to read.

Vampires, Burial and Death: Folklore and Reality, by Paul Barber.
A scholarly and fascinating study of how science-ignorant peasantry came to view the normal processes of decay and decomposition as being signs that a dead body was actually in an "undead", vampiric state. I highly recommend this.

Vampires in Their Own Words: An Anthology of Vampire Voices, by Michelle Belanger.
A collection of writings, thoughts, musings and more from members of the vampire community. This book is due out in September, 2007 but you can pre-order it now.

Vampires: The Occult Truth, by Konstantinos.
Konstantinos' somewhat controversial book about psychic vampirism.

VideoHound's Vampires On Video, by J. Gordon Melton (Compiler).
A comprehensive guide to vampire movies and films with ratings and reviews.

Notable Fiction

Awakening, The, by John Russo.
Benjamin Latham awakens after 200 years and has to adjust to a 20th century world.

Blood Games, by Lee Killough.
The third in the series. Wow, Killough wrote another one, and I didn't know about it! Garreth Mikaelian is on the trail of an albino psycho who may be a vampire, who killed his partner and his lover.

Blood Hunt, by Lee Killough.
While investigatng a murder, homicide cop Garreth Mikaelian corners the murderess, who happens to be a vampire, in an alley and inadavertently gets turned into a vampire. Now he will search for her who did it to him in vengeance.

Bloodlinks, by Lee Killough.
The sequel to Blood Hunt. New mysteries, new questions, new problems, and new leads. Garreth continues his investigation, while others investigate him.

Bloodthirst (Star Trek #37), by J.M. Dillard.
A class one medical emergency summons the Enterprise to Tanis, a Federation outpost, to find two of the lab researchers dead, and one survivor with a thirst for blood.

Empire of Fear, The, by Brian Stableford.
An alternative-history vampire novel ranging from Elizabethan England to the darkest, deepest parts of uncharted Africa, and beyond, in search of the origins of vampires. This is one of the most engrossing vampire novels I have read (and I have read a multitude of them).

Fevre Dream, by George R.R. Martin.
Take a riverboat cruise down the Mississippi with vampires during the height of the riverboat era. This is one of the lesser known classics of the genre.

Gifts of Blood, by Susan Petrey.
A collection of stories about a tribe of vampires on the Russian steppes trying to make their way in the world.

Hunger, The, by Whitley Streiber.
The classic book that spawned the classic movie with David Bowie. An excellent read.

Immortals, The, by James Gunn.
While not strictly speaking a vampire book, this all-but-forgotten book from 1955 has strong vampiric elements and themes. Also, if you saw Blade, "Pearl" was NOT original to that movie, but was obviously inspired by a character in this book.

Precious Blood, by Pat Graversen.
Bound through the centruries, they are vampires souls locked in a struggle for power, passion, and precious blood.

Shadows, by Jonathan Nasaw.
The sequel to The World On Blood. This one focuses on the Wiccans.

Sweet Blood, by Pat Graversen.
They were linked souls, spiralling through time; vampires who would give each other anything, even their own blood.

Vampire of Mons, The, by Desmond Stewart.
This is hard to explain, but it's a good book. Set in a pre-WWII boarding school, Clive Swinburne comes to believe his music teacher from Eastern Europe is a vampire.

World On Blood, The: A Novel, by Jonathan Nasaw.
Excluding all the outlandish sex (which is very fun and ... interesting ... to read about), and blood-as-drug themes, this is the most realistic vampire novel I've ever read (and one of the best). Nick Santos runs a support group for vampires.... (Whaaaaaaaaat?? Don't look at me like that...)

Documentaries/Films

Ancient Mysteries: Vampires
From A&E Entertainment. Traces the history and legends of vampires. Pretty interesting documentary overall. (VHS).

Exploring the Supernatural #2: Vampires
Another documentary worth watching. Part of the "Exploring the Supernatural" series. (DVD). Also available in VHS (2 cassettes).

Fangs!
A history of vampires in the movies. (VHS).

Vampires - Thirst for the Truth
William Marshall, narrator. Explores vampires in myths and legends, cinematic vampires, and continuing interest today. (VHS).

Witches, Vampires & Zombies
John Russo, narrator. An engaging, spookily presented documentary which discusses (what else?) witches, vampires and zombies, narrated by the author of Night of the Living Dead and Return of the Living Dead. (VHS).

Notable Movies

Addiction, The
Lili Taylor, Christopher Walken. Very stylistic film which presents vampirism as an addiction. (VHS).

Blade
Stephen Dorff, Wesley Snipes. Deacon Frost is a great vampire with great intentions, but some stupid, genocidal vampire hunter with a stake up his butt comes along and kills him. *sigh* Still, it's a good movie. (DVD widescreen). Also available in VHS and VHS widescreen.

Blood and Donuts
Gordon Currie, Justin Louis, Helene Clarkson. A strange and offbeat but amusing film about a vampire and the taxi driver who befriends him. (VHS).

Hunger, The
Catherine Deneuve, David Bowie. The classic movie based on the classic book. (VHS). Also available in VHS widescreen.

Innocent Blood
Anne Parillaud, Anthony LaPaglia. Dir. by John Landis. A mafia figure turned vampire starts wreaking havok. Don Rickles plays the corrupt mob lawyer. Very witty, intelligent and entertaining. (DVD). Also available in VHS.

Martin
John Amplas, Lincoln Maazel. Dir. by George Romero. Startling film about a simple-minded boy vampire who goes to live with his superstitious "uncle" who intends to "save" his soul. (DVD). Also available in VHS.

Modern Vampires
Casper Van Dien, Natasha Gregson Wagner. Amusing, amusing film. Light and fun entertainment. (DVD). Also available in VHS.

My Best Friend is a Vampire
Robert Sean Leonard. A high schooler has to deal with the pain in the neck of becoming a vampire. Fun 80's film. (VHS).

Near Dark
Adrian Pasdar, Jenny Wright, Lance Henriksen, Bill Paxton. Excellent dark film about a midwest farmboy who is forced to join a band of nomadic vampires. (DVD). Also available in VHS.

Nightlife
Maryam d'Abo, Keith Szarabajka, Ben Cross, Camille Saviola. A comedy about a hematologist who falls for a beautiful vampire seeking to escape her past. (VHS).

Nosferatu: The First Vampire
(VHS). Also available in DVD.

Shadow of the Vampire
John Malkovich, Willem Dafoe. Based on Murnau's 1922 silent classic, Nosferatu, the premise of this movie is that Murnau, obsessed with authenticity, actually found a vampire to play Count Orlock. (DVD). Also available in VHS.

Vampire in Brooklyn
Eddie Murphy, Angela Basset. Dir. by Wes Craven! If you like Eddie Murphy, and you like vampires then you've got to see this. Max rocks. (DVD widescreen). Also available in VHS.

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