The Exorcist (Anniversary)

<p><strong>A horror story for all midnights. </strong>-- <strong><em>The Boston Globe</em></strong></p><p><strong>Inspired by the shockingly true story of a child's demonic possession in the 1940s William Peter Blatty's iconic novel focuses on Regan the eleven-year-old daughter of a movie actress residing in Washington D.C. When sweet Regan's behavior turns sinister a small group of overwhelmed yet determined individuals take it upon themselves to rescue the poor girl from her unspeakable fate. Timeless and terrifying <em>The Exorcist </em>is a story that has gripped the public zeitgeist for more than half a century. </strong></p><p>Originally published in 1971 <strong> </strong>it remains one of the most controversial novels ever written. A literary phenomenon soon after its release it spent fifty-seven weeks on the <em>New York Times</em> bestseller list seventeen consecutively at number one. It also became a wildly popular motion picture garnering ten Academy Award nominations. On the opening day of the film lines of fans stretched around city blocks. In Chicago frustrated moviegoers used a battering ram to gain entry through the double side doors of a theater. In Kansas City police used tear gas to disperse an impatient crowd who tried to force their way into a cinema. The three major television networks carried footage of these events and CBS's Walter Cronkite devoted almost ten minutes to the story. <em>The Exorcist</em> was and is more than just a novel and a film: it is a true landmark of American culture. . . and a reflection of our innermost fears.</p><p>Purposefully raw and profane <em>The Exorcist</em> continues to engross and disturb readers. It remains an unforgettable reading experience that will continue to shock and frighten new generations of readers.</p>