Altoona

Altoona professors explore horror’s cathartic nature, role in social protest

In the latest "Meet Your Maker" episode of their "Horror Joy" podcast, hosts Brian Onishi and Jeff Stoyanoff are joined by John Chrostek, a writer, editor, and designer, to discuss his recent collection, "Boxcutters," and his upcoming novel, "Feast of the Pale Leviathan." Credit: Jason Long, Spring Dam Designs. All Rights Reserved.

ALTOONA, Pa. — Penn State Altoona faculty members Brian Onishi, associate professor of philosophy, and Jeff Stoyanoff, assistant professor of English and of women's, gender and sexuality studies, released a new episode of their "Horror Joy" podcast.

In this “Meet Your Maker” episode, the hosts are joined by John Chrostek, a writer, editor and designer, to discuss his recent collection, “Boxcutters,” and his new novel, “Feast of the Pale Leviathan.” They delve into Chrostek’s perspective on the relationship between horror and joy, the cathartic nature of horror, and its role as a tool for social protest. Chrostek also shares insights on his writing journey, his editorial work at “Cold Signal literary magazine,” and his experience co-owning the independent bookstore Evening House in Buffalo, New York.

The conversation touches on the significance of independent bookstores, recent horror media recommendations, and Chrostek's thoughts on creating meaningful literature in today's socio-economic landscape.

The full episode can be accessed on podcast providers or on Red Circle. Learn more about the "Horror Joy" podcast online.

Last Updated August 29, 2025

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