Just in time for the 2024 Halloween season, renowned children's author Paul van Loon is releasing his latest work: Danse Macabre – Het begin. The book, which is set to be released on October 22, accompanies the grand opening of Efteling's new Danse Macabre attraction on October 31. The thrilling story tells of mysterious events at an abbey and serves as the perfect prelude to the spooky atmosphere of the Efteling theme park.
Danse Macabre – Het begin: An Adventure in Dark Times
The book Danse Macabre – Het begin takes readers back to the year 1876, into a shadowy world full of secrets and dangers. The story centers on siblings Florian and Isabella, who, despite warnings from their foster father Damian, sneak into an old abbey during the infamous Danse Macabre performance. At the heart of the narrative is the enigmatic conductor Joseph Charlatan, who knows more about the dark forces at play than he lets on. As a black shadow causes the abbey to collapse, the children must flee from an unspeakable evil, which has its sights set on Isabella.
With his captivating storytelling, Paul van Loon once again creates a fascinating yet chilling world that will captivate young readers.
A masterpiece for young readers
Paul van Loon, known for his spine-tingling horror stories, has targeted Danse Macabre – Het begin at readers aged 9 and above. The hardcover luxury edition, priced at €23.99, is distinguished by its high-quality features, such as foil embossing and full-color illustrations that beautifully capture the dark atmosphere of the story. The book will be available on October 22, 2024, in bookstores as well as in Efteldingen’s souvenir shop. For those seeking the full Efteling experience, the book will also be available starting October 31 in the themed souvenir shop Dr. Charlatans Kwalycke Zaken in Huyverwoud, which opens alongside the new attraction.
A new chapter in Efteling’s world: Danse Macabre
After the closure of the iconic Spookslot in 2022, many Efteling fans eagerly awaited the reveal of the attraction that would inherit its eerie legacy. On October 31, 2024, the wait will be over. Efteling will unveil a brand-new spooky-themed area featuring the Danse Macabre attraction, promising to terrify visitors like never before. This new area will carry on the haunting spirit of Spookslot while incorporating cutting-edge technology for an immersive experience. Visitors will be drawn deep into the eerie world of Danse Macabre, enveloped by its dark and chilling atmosphere.
Paul van Loon: The Master of Horror
Paul van Loon has been a mainstay in the children’s book world for over 40 years, delighting readers from ages 7 to 99. He is best known for popular series like Dolfje Weerwolfje, Foeksia de miniheks, and Griezelbus, but his collaboration with Efteling has also earned him a dedicated fanbase. Van Loon’s stories blend horror, humor, and fantastical worlds—an enchanting combination that has endeared him to millions of children. His books have won numerous awards, and readers can expect his signature storytelling magic in Danse Macabre – Het begin as well.
Availability and special details
Danse Macabre – Het begin is available as a hardcover luxury edition, featuring striking illustrations and special details like foil embossing and edge coloring. The book can be found in bookstores and at Efteldingen's souvenir shop starting October 22. From October 31, coinciding with the opening of the new themed area, it will also be available at the specially themed souvenir shop Dr. Charlatans Kwalycke Zaken in Huyverwoud.
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