If you're looking for an overview of the beginnings of the horror genre, this is a good place to look. Lovecraft originally published this long essay in the 1930s, and it still stands up as a strong overview up through that point. He didn't leave any definative authors or works unaddressed, and the book is sure to provide an ample extended reading list for anyone interested in the weird, the gothic, or horror. It's a quick read, and while there are no in depth discussions of any one work, the book provides a strong history of early horror and a worthwhile look at Poe. My reading list has grown quite a bit from a look into this book. If you're interested in what you're getting into, it's worth your time. ( )