Which Richard Matheson short story should I start with?

Richard Matheson's 'Button, Button' is a thought - provoking short story. It delves into the concept of moral temptation. The story presents a couple with a mysterious button. If they press it, they will receive a large sum of money, but someone they don't know will die. This simple premise forces the readers to consider their own moral boundaries. It shows how easily people can be swayed by the prospect of financial gain, even at the cost of someone else's life.

Richard Matheson's short stories are often known for their unique blend of horror and science fiction elements. His use of suspense is masterful, drawing readers in and keeping them on the edge of their seats.

One of his best novels is 'I Am Legend'. It's a post - apocalyptic story that has had a huge influence on the horror and science - fiction genres. The concept of a lone survivor in a world overrun by vampires is both terrifying and thought - provoking.

One of the main themes is moral dilemma. The couple has to decide whether to sacrifice an unknown person's life for money. Another theme is greed. The allure of a large sum of money makes them consider the immoral act. Also, there's the theme of the unknown and how it affects our decisions. They don't know who will die, and that adds to the complexity of their choice.

Another excellent one is 'Prey'. In this story, a woman is terrorized by a small, moving doll. Matheson builds a sense of creeping dread as the doll seems to have a malevolent intelligence. It's a great example of his ability to create horror in a domestic setting.

His unique ideas. For example, in stories like 'Button, Button', he presents moral conundrums that make readers question their own values. This kind of thought - provoking concept is very appealing.

I would recommend 'I Am Legend'. It has had a huge influence on the post - apocalyptic genre. The way it portrays the main character's struggle against the vampire - like creatures while being completely alone in the world is both harrowing and engaging.

One of the best is 'I Am Legend'. It's a post - apocalyptic tale where the last man on Earth battles vampires. The story is gripping as it delves into themes of isolation and survival. Another great one is 'Button, Button'. It presents a moral dilemma in a very thought - provoking way. The simple premise of a button that could bring a large sum of money at the cost of someone's life makes the reader question their own values.

Richard Matheson has written many great novels. 'I Am Legend' is a classic. It has been adapted into movies several times, showing its lasting appeal. 'The Shrinking Man' is not only about physical shrinking but also about how the main character's world view changes as he gets smaller. 'A Stir of Echoes' is another good one. It involves a man who starts to experience strange visions and psychic phenomena, leading to a series of mysterious and often terrifying events.

One of the great stories could be 'Button, Button'. It's a thought - provoking tale about a couple presented with a moral dilemma. They are given a box with a button and told that if they push it, they'll receive a large sum of money, but someone they don't know will die. This story really makes you think about the value of life and the lengths people might go to for money.