7/26/2007

I’ve gotten some questions regarding the book I mentioned last week- “Chicago TV’s Horror Movie Shows: from Shock Theatre to Svengoolie” by Ted Okuda and Mark Yurkiw. People have been asking where they can get the book; and, actually, right now- you can’t! But- soon- you WILL be able to find it, most likely at most local bookstores, under “local interest” or “media/television.”

I got an e-mail from Ted, who has been responsible for many fine books, including a great volume on the Columbia Short Subjects series like the 3 Stooges, Andy Clyde, and more; and his book about Chicago TV Kids’ Shows, which was a great success. Ted explained that he’s proofreading the “galleys” of the first half of the book- and will be receiving the rest by later this week. As son as he finishes checking the pages, he’ll ship them off to the printer- and then, it’ll be a little less than a month before the book is ready to be shipped out to the stores.

So, chances are you’ll be seeing it in bookstores before Labor Day.

Just for historic information on Chicago’s horror hosts- Marvin (Terry Bennett) of “Shock Theatre” and the Svens, Senior and Junior (Jerry G. Bishop and yours truly)- plus out-of-town short-timer “the Ghoul” (people STILL tell me about how upset they were when Kaiser replaced Jerry with him!) and Cleveland legend Ghoulardi- this book is a real treasure trove. It will also include information that I get asked about a lot- the non-hosted shows, like “The Early Show,” “Creature Features,” “Monster Rally” and the like- and, a guide to about 100 horror films that aired on Chicago TV.

Another interesting feature is the information about the original “Shock!” package of movies that Universal first syndicated to local television stations in the 50s- which was what actually spawned the whole hosted horror flick business- with Vampira on the west coast, Zacherly on the east coast, and Marvin right here in the Midwest. Add in some great photos of us all, and you’ve got a pretty neat package! So, be looking for it in about four weeks…

And, speaking of the “Shock!” Universal library- we will be continuing with the great Universal flicks right on through from summer, into fall- with the entire “Creature from the Black Lagoon” trilogy on the horizon, and a variety pack of Frankenstein flicks to chill your spine when the weather starts to turn cold!…and- have I mentioned lately that they’re still running Sven flicks on Me-TV during the week at 3 am? Please check you local listings for details…so, looks like the Summer of Sven will turn into a Fall of Famous Fear! (Supply your own “winter” alliteration title!)