Probably close to a year ago now, in much more ‘precedented’ times, we hosted a class visit during which we invited the kids to shout out their favourite book titles. By the time the fifth student had excitedly exclaimed, “Goosebumps!” we asked if anyone had a different response. Three eager little hands shot up in the air, and yet two of the answers were somehow still “Goosebumps!”. But if you’ve ever entertained a group of 9-year-olds, you’ll know that’s not the unusual part of the story. What was interesting was that the series they were talking about was not the recent SlappyWorld spinoff or even the preceding HorrorLand collection. It was the 1992-1997 stretch now known as “Classic Goosebumps”. That’s right, Classic. In case some of you ‘90s kids out there were still feeling young.
While the popularity surge of our beloved childhood pastime was conceivably spurred by the recent movie franchise, it’s not the only ’90s era obsession currently establishing its triumphant literary return. Not even the only one for R.L. Stine. The author is set to release a modern interpretation of the comically grotesque sticker trading cards, turned movie, turned cult phenomenon known as Garbage Pail Kids – the darkly alluring parody on the Cabbage Patch craze of the mid ‘80s. The first installment, Welcome to Smellville will arrive late September. What looks to be a heavily toned-down version of the once decidedly radical group - whose cards have still been newly circulating on multiple occasions throughout its 35 year history - will no doubt sit well with a changed culture of childhood and likely make for a successful middle-grade series. And good news, Adam Bomb is still inexplicably intact. So, some things never change.
Expect to see more of Stine as we head toward another full-scale revival, this time of his tween staple Fear Street, which is being adapted into a movie trilogy, recently delayed, then bought from Disney by Netflix and now set for release sometime in 2021. The YA print series also started a quiet relaunch back in 2014. There’s been no official word yet on which books it will cover, but we wouldn’t mind seeing the Super Chiller spinoff Goodnight Kiss – if even just to remind the kids that there were many a teen vampire before the likes of Twilight.
On the brighter (perhaps even neon) end of the revival spectrum we have witnessed the explosive resurgence of all things BSC. Any self-respecting ‘90s kid will tell you that’s short for Baby-Sitters Club – and they may also elaborate on whether they identify as a Claudia or a Kristy. We prefer to think we’re more of a bookish Mallory. From 2006-2008 relative newcomer Raina Telgemeier illustrated a graphic novel project based on the first books in the original series. She would later publish her wildly popular original series, Smile, as well as Drama, Guts, and Ghosts. The BSC crossover was revisited by Gale Galligan in 2017, who will release her fourth installment this fall. All combined, the illustrated versions make up some of our most circulated juvenile graphic novels in recent years.
Now on the heels of the new Netflix BSC series, Scholastic started reissuing all the original works with new cover art back in May. The 10 th book, Logan Likes Mary Anne, will be arriving this fall. We also have Little Sister, which is another spinoff of a spinoff, illustrated by Katy Farina and featuring Karen, stepsister of BSC founder and president Kristy (try to keep up).
If series aren’t your thing, there’s still plenty of ‘90s nostalgia to be had in some popular one-off titles. Quirk Books, for instance, has released a really cool line called Pop Classics, revisiting cult faves of the ‘80s and ‘90s like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, X-Files, E.T., Karate Kid, Back to the Future, Home Alone, and Home Alone 2. Thankfully, there appear to be no future plans for a Home Alone 3 edition as any true fan will tell you the Culkin-less versions don’t count.
Not to be outdone, Golden Books has issued several classic character stories and movie tie-ins. Revisit Eternia/Etheria with I Am She-ra!, I Am He-man!, and everyone’s favourite Overlord of Evil, in I Am Skeletor! All three are based on the original series but were published as companions to the newer Netflix adaptations. You’ll also find other Golden Book throwbacks like Jurassic Park and the original Ghostbusters.
Other influential ‘90s stories, like those by author by Roald Dahl - whose children’s novels only increased in popularity after his death in 1990 - have seen huge success with anniversary releases and new large colour editions of works such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Matilda. The Witches graphic novel, adapted by Pénélope Bagieu, will be out this September, before the new film version slated for release in 2021. And yes, we are counting down the sleeps for both. This is also the first time we’ll see one of Dahl’s works adapted in this format – but likely not the last.
As ‘90s culture continues to pervade modern trends we’re happy to introduce these works (and more) to a new generation of readers. You can put any of your throwback faves on hold for curbside pickup or check out our selection with a browsing appointment. Call to book: 905-227-2581.
