Fear Street is the cinematic equivalent of a bag of popcorn. It’s not a five-course meal, and it’s definitely not 'literary,' but it’s incredibly satisfying for what it is.

Stine knows how to hook a middle-schooler's attention better than almost anyone. While the 2020 collection brings back the classics, keep in mind these are darker than his more famous Goosebumps series. There’s actual peril and a body count.

If your kid is glued to a phone, handing them one of these is a solid move. It’s fast, it’s a bit trashy in a fun way, and it actually makes them want to turn the page.