The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is a famous story by Washington Irving, whose frightening imagery retains popularity to this day.

First published in 1820 and set in a small Dutch settlement in the late 18th century, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is a ghost story. We witness a gradual buildup of tension as the narrator details a series of explanations for the odd occurrences and supernatural spectres which haunt the locality. 

The most frightening and enduring image of the book is the headless horseman - said to be a ghost of a soldier who was decapitated during battle by a stray cannonball. Still searching for his head, the rider's quest ensues every night, frightening those who happen to behold him. 

Our protagonist is Ichabod Crane, a schoolmaster with a penchant for superstitions. He and another suitor, Abraham "Brom Bones" Van Brunt, vie for the hand of marriage of Katrina Van Tassel, the young daughter of a local farmer. Failing in his attempt to woo the lady, a saddened Ichabod makes his way home, whereupon the true revelations begin... 

Today, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow has many adaptations to its name, having itself become a hallmark of popular horror culture. This edition presents the complete and original text, as authored by Washington Irving in the early 19th century.