A Literary Phenomenon That Refuses to Fade
First released in 1989, True Singapore Ghost Stories (TSGS) has managed to defy the odds by staying relevant and widely read for more than three decades. Published under the mysterious pseudonym Russell Lee, the series continues to capture the imagination of Singaporeans with its eerie tales rooted in familiar local settings.
According to the National Library Board (NLB), books from the TSGS series have consistently ranked among the Top 10 most borrowed physical adult books in Singapore for almost every year over the past decade. Even after 35 years, it seems the appeal of Singapore’s most iconic horror series is far from waning.
More Than Just Ghost Stories
What sets TSGS apart from other horror literature is not just the supernatural elements, but its relatability. The stories are often set in everyday Singaporean environments — from HDB flats to East Coast chalets, from late-night cab rides to school camps. For many readers, the fear comes not from the horror itself, but from the possibility that it could happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time.
This hyperlocal context is key to its success. By tapping into shared spaces and cultural norms, the series delivers a type of horror that feels intimately close to home. It’s not about monsters from distant lands, but the urban legends whispered among friends in Singapore’s own heartlands.
A Simple Style With Broad Appeal
One of the most distinctive features of TSGS is its straightforward writing style. The books employ simple, short sentences that stick closely to a subject-verb-object structure. There is little room for literary embellishment or dramatic prose. This minimalism, while perhaps underwhelming to literary critics, has proven to be one of the reasons for its widespread popularity.
The accessible language invites readers of all ages and reading levels to engage with the stories. Even those who are not regular readers can find themselves flipping through a TSGS book with ease. The use of Singlish and conversational tone adds to the books’ relatability and cultural authenticity.
In an interview with CNA Lifestyle, Russell Lee acknowledged that the use of simple English, enriched with local flavour, helps him connect more directly with readers. He describes Singapore’s version of English as one of its “most wonderful varieties”, noting that this voice is central to the success of the series.
Anonymous Yet Impactful
The enduring mystery behind the author’s true identity adds another layer of intrigue. Some critics argue that publishing under a pseudonym reduces credibility or accountability. Online discussions have occasionally questioned the authenticity of certain stories, with Reddit users claiming that even fake submissions have made it to print.
But for most fans, the anonymity of Russell Lee only enhances the mystique of the series. Readers are less concerned with verifying the facts and more interested in the thrill and entertainment value of each tale. As Lee himself puts it, the primary goal of the books has always been to entertain — a focus that has never changed.
The Series Continues to Inspire a New Generation
The most recent release, Book 27, launched in 2023, topped NLB’s list of most borrowed books that year, with Book 1 coming in at third. These rankings reveal that both longtime fans and new readers are still drawn to the series.
Each volume reportedly receives hundreds of story submissions. According to Lee, contributions come not only from readers but also from his team of writers and interviews he conducts personally. He even welcomes submissions from young readers, hoping to spark an interest in both reading and writing.
TSGS also holds an educational edge. Many readers have credited the series with helping improve their English grades. For some, the books were an affordable and enjoyable supplement to tuition classes.
A Cultural Artifact of Modern Singapore
Beyond the paranormal tales, TSGS represents a unique snapshot of Singaporean culture. The stories mirror the country’s multicultural landscape, incorporating ghosts and folklore from various ethnic traditions. As Singapore evolves, so do the supernatural encounters described in the books, reflecting the shifting urban and social fabric of the nation.
Dr. Gwee Li Sui, a well-known Singaporean literary critic, has referred to TSGS as part of “Singaporeana” — cultural products that reflect Singapore’s identity and shared memory. He points out that urban myths are a regular part of Singaporean life, often passed down in casual conversations and social gatherings. TSGS captures this oral tradition in written form.
What’s Next for True Singapore Ghost Stories?
While Russell Lee has hinted that Book 28 could be his last, he also admitted he hopes that won’t be the case. Writing the series, he says, takes time and energy — each story demands a piece of his life. However, he’s proud of what the series has become: a grassroots literary miracle that belongs to the people of Singapore.
“Shared stories have the ability to unite us,” Lee says. “They create fond memories of Singapore — memories which stay with us wherever we may travel.”
For now, as long as Singaporeans continue to crave eerie tales set in their own backyard, True Singapore Ghost Stories will likely remain a beloved fixture in the nation’s literary landscape.
