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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Drawn to the Dark summary
Chris Kullstroem
Brief summary
Drawn to the Dark by Chris Kullstroem is a captivating exploration of the world of dark tourism. From haunted houses to ghost tours, the author delves into the allure of the macabre and the human fascination with the eerie and unknown.
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Table of Contents
Drawn to the Dark
Summary of key ideas
Embracing the Macabre
In Drawn to the Dark by Chris Kullstroem, we embark on a journey with the author, who has a peculiar fascination with all things dark and scary. Kullstroem, a self-proclaimed horror enthusiast, sets out to explore the world's most chilling and macabre attractions, driven by her insatiable curiosity about the darker side of human nature.
She begins her journey in Mexico, where she immerses herself in the vibrant and haunting traditions of Dia de los Muertos. Kullstroem describes the festive yet eerie atmosphere, as families gather in cemeteries, adorned with skull makeup and marigold flowers, to honor their deceased loved ones. She delves deep into the history and cultural significance of this unique celebration, highlighting the Mexicans' remarkable acceptance of death as a part of life.
Thrills and Chills
Moving on from Mexico, Kullstroem heads to New Zealand, where she experiences the country's thriving horror industry. She visits haunted houses, horror-themed amusement parks, and even a zombie survival camp. The author is intrigued by the Kiwis' fascination with the macabre, and she explores how these attractions provide a safe environment for people to confront their deepest fears.
Continuing her journey, Kullstroem then travels to Japan, a country known for its unique blend of ancient folklore and modern horror. Here, she explores the Aokigahara Forest, also known as the "Suicide Forest," and delves into the complex cultural attitudes towards death and the supernatural. She also visits the infamous "haunted" sites and learns about the country's love for ghost stories and urban legends.
Encounters with the Supernatural
Kullstroem's next destination is Transylvania, the birthplace of the legendary vampire Dracula. Here, she explores the region's rich folklore and history, visiting eerie castles and participating in vampire-themed events. She delves into the enduring appeal of vampires in popular culture and the impact of these myths on the local economy and identity.
Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she visits Austria during the Krampusnacht, a festival celebrating the demonic figure of Krampus. Kullstroem is fascinated by the locals' enthusiastic embrace of this terrifying Christmas tradition and the contrast it presents to the festive holiday season.
Reflections on Fear and Humanity
As her travels draw to a close, Kullstroem reflects on her experiences and the universal fascination with fear. She ponders on the role of horror in society, its ability to bring people together, and its potential for personal growth and empowerment. She also contemplates the thin line between fear and excitement, and how these emotions are intertwined in our collective human experience.
In conclusion, Drawn to the Dark is not just a travelogue of chilling adventures, but a deep exploration of the human relationship with fear, death, and the unknown. Kullstroem's fearless exploration of the world's darkest attractions sheds light on the universal nature of our fascination with the macabre, and the ways it connects us across cultures and continents.
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What is Drawn to the Dark about?
Drawn to the Dark is a gripping exploration of the world of dark tourism. Author Chris Kullstroem takes readers on a fascinating journey to some of the most macabre and mysterious destinations around the globe. From haunted castles to eerie catacombs, this book delves into the reasons why people are drawn to such dark and unsettling places, offering a unique blend of travelogue, history, and cultural analysis.
Drawn to the Dark Review
Drawn to the Dark (2019) is a captivating exploration of ghost hunting and the supernatural, perfect for those intrigued by the unknown. Here's why this book is a great read:
- Explores real-life ghost stories and paranormal encounters in a gripping and informative manner, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
- Offers insight into the psychology behind our fascination with the supernatural, shedding light on our fear and curiosity about the mysterious.
- Combines historical context and personal experiences to create a rich tapestry of spooky tales, ensuring the book is anything but dull.
Who should read Drawn to the Dark?
Those who are curious about the psychology and appeal of dark tourism
Travelers looking for unique and offbeat destinations
Horror enthusiasts who want to explore the world of haunted attractions and scare shows
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Book summaries like Drawn to the Dark
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Drawn to the Dark FAQs
What is the main message of Drawn to the Dark?
The main message of Drawn to the Dark is embracing and understanding the allure of darkness in our lives.
How long does it take to read Drawn to the Dark?
The estimated reading time for Drawn to the Dark is several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is Drawn to the Dark a good book? Is it worth reading?
Drawn to the Dark is worth reading for its profound exploration of darkness and its impact on our experiences.
Who is the author of Drawn to the Dark?
The author of Drawn to the Dark is Chris Kullstroem.
What to read after Drawn to the Dark?
If you're wondering what to read next after Drawn to the Dark, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susann Jeffers
- Blink by Malcolm Gladwell
- Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell
- Carrots and Sticks by Ian Ayres
- Nudge by Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. Sunstein
- Inspired by Marty Cagan
- The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
- Winning by Jack Welch with Suzy Welch
- The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
- The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss