Origins of My Love of Horror 9

I Am Legend by Richard Matheson is one of my favorite novels. It's a post-apocalyptic story about the last human on an Earth overrun by vampires. Even today, it remains a relevant, striking story, with spare prose underlying the tale's sense of urgency. And the ending still packs a punch--not surprising, given Matheson's work on several of the best Twilight Zone episodes. It's a novel I recommend unreservedly.

There are three movie versions: The Last Man on Earth (1964), The Omega Man (1971), and I Am Legend (2007).  While each has its merits, none capture the novel's paranoia and anxiety.

Do you have a favorite post-apocalyptic novel? How about a favorite Matheson novel? Let me know in the comments.