Howard Phillips Lovecraft was born late in the 19th century, but it was not until after his death in 1937 that he became a worldwide icon of horror and supernatural fiction. Today his influence stretches into feature films, television episodes, comic book tales and even video games adapting or inspired by his works. As a result, Lovecraft’s creations have had a profound effect on American popular culture. 

This study of Lovecraft’s influence and adaptations begins with an overview of his complete writings and provides an annotated bibliography of the author’s horror and science fiction tales. Later chapters discuss adaptations in film, television, comic books, role-playing and video games, and music. The book concludes with a close examination of the Lovecraft legacy. 

Don G. Smith, an associate professor in history and philosophy of education at Eastern Illinois University, is the author of Lon Chaney, Jr. (2004), The Poe Cinema (2003) and H.G. Wells on Film (2002). He has written for numerous publications, including Filmfax, Scarlet Street, Movie Collector’s World, Color Collector’s Guide, and Midnight Marquee. He lives in Charleston, Illinois.