Al Sarrantonio was a prolific author whose works spanned the realms of horror, science fiction, and fantasy. With a career that touched every corner of speculative fiction, he was a respected figure in the literary world, known for his ability to craft stories that were both haunting and thought-provoking.

Born on May 25, 1952, in New York City, Al's fascination with storytelling began at an early age. He grew up devouring the works of classic genre authors, which sparked his imagination and set him on the path to becoming a writer. After earning a degree in English from Manhattan College in 1974, Al began to pursue his passion in earnest.

Al's writing career took off in the late 1970s, with his first published works appearing in science fiction magazines. His early stories quickly gained attention for their vivid imagery and innovative plots, leading to his first novel, The Worms, published in 1985. This debut novel established Al as a significant new voice in horror, and it was just the beginning.

Over the years, Al Sarrantonio published over 50 books, including novels, short story collections, and anthologies. His works included the critically acclaimed Orangefield series, set in the fictional town of Orangefield, New York, where Halloween was not just a holiday but a harbinger of dark and supernatural events. The series was a standout in his oeuvre, blending his love of Halloween with his talent for creating suspenseful, eerie atmospheres.

In addition to his own writing, Al made substantial contributions as an editor. He edited several anthologies that became essential reading for fans of speculative fiction, such as 999: New Stories of Horror and Suspense, which featured contributions from some of the biggest names in the genre, including Stephen King and Joyce Carol Oates. His editorial work earned him a reputation as a curator of high-quality, innovative fiction.

Al's career was marked by numerous accolades, including the Bram Stoker Award, which he won for his short story collection Toybox in 1999. His work was praised for its accessibility and evocative prose, making him a favorite among both dedicated genre fans and new readers alike.

On January 27, 2025, Al Sarrantonio passed away peacefully at his home in Newburgh, New York, seated in his favorite reading chair. His works remain a testament to his extraordinary storytelling, challenging readers to explore the boundaries of genre and embrace the power of narrative.