Scary Stories Documentary Watch Party

Scary Stories Documentary PosterScary Stories” is a full-length documentary about the banned book series that includes the 1981 anthology Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark and its two sequels by Alvin Schwartz. Approximately 40 interviews were conducted, from family members of the author, fellow children's book horror authors, and folklorists, to librarians, artists, and fans.

For Banned Books Week, we invite you to stream the free documentary on Friday, October 2, at 6 p.m. CST and join the conversation on Twitter using #CensorshipisScary or on the Facebook Event page. After the film, join us on the Banned Books Week YouTube channel for a Q&A with Director Cody Meirick.

How can I watch the documentary?

  • Amazon Prime (subscription required)
  • Tubi (free with ads)
  • DVD (check out the DVD from your local library)

How can I host my own “Watch Party”?

A watch party is a virtual social gathering for the purpose of watching a specific event. For example, Amazon Prime allows members to easily host a watch party for up to 100 members. We encourage libraries and other organizations to host additional watch parties for their communities. There will be live chat on Amazon Prime platform and Twitter.

What if I have questions about the documentary?

Following the Watch Party, join us for a live Q&A with filmmaker Cody Meirick on the Banned Books Week YouTube channel at 7:45 p.m. CST. For details and updates, join the Facebook Event. If your library or organization is hosting a concurrent watch party, please email us so we can add you as a co-host. We also encourage public facing events to be included on the Banned Books Week Calendar.