Goosebumps!

Welcome to a SPECIAL EDITION of the Piece of Advice Newsletter!

Good morning! I thought in celebration of spooky season we would do a deep dive in one of the most iconic literary franchises of all time, “Goosebumps”! I also got to ask it’s long time illustrator, Tim Jacobus, a couple of questions!

When R.L. Stine sat down to write the first “Goosebumps” book in 1992, he had no idea he was about to spark a literary phenomenon. Originally aimed at middle-grade readers, the idea was simple but genius: give kids the thrill of horror with just enough humor and suspense to keep them flipping pages well past bedtime. Stine, already known for his “Fear Street” series, saw an opportunity to write spooky stories that were a little less terrifying but just as addictive. With “Welcome to Dead House”, the first book in the series, he set the tone for what would become a major cultural moment.

A huge part of Goosebumps’ success was its unforgettable artwork. Illustrator Tim Jacobus crafted bold, eerie, and often grotesquely funny covers that stood out on any bookshelf. The dripping titles and vibrant imagery became iconic in the ‘90s, pulling young readers in even before reading the first page. Each cover teased the adventure inside; be it a haunted mask, a creepy dummy, or a vengeful sponge. These illustrations became such a staple that even today, collectors seek out the original prints for their nostalgic value.

Beyond the chills and thrills, “Goosebumps” played a big role in getting a generation of kids excited about reading. It turned reluctant readers into full-fledged bookworms, offering fun-size frights in digestible doses. The series tackled classic horror tropes with a kid-friendly twist, teaching readers about fear, bravery, and sometimes just how to laugh at the absurd. At its peak, “Goosebumps” sold hundreds of millions of copies worldwide and was translated into multiple languages, making it a global gateway into the world of fiction.

The series’ legacy is still going strong. From the successful TV adaptation in the ’90s to the more recent films starring Jack Black, “Goosebumps” continues to inspire both nostalgia and new fans alike. With spin-offs, reprints, and fresh stories being published, R.L. Stine’s eerie empire shows no signs of slowing down. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling; and just how much fun a good scare can be.

Bonus Question:

Giancarlo: How does it feel to be a part of something so beloved like “Goosebumps”?

Tim Jacobus: There is nothing better!

Piece Of Advice:

Giancarlo: What is this best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Tim Jacobus: Paint and draw when you don’t feel like it.

Thank you for reading! Have an amazing day and we will catch you again on Monday!

-Giancarlo