Sometimes one can see the incorrect statement that Rebel Without a Cause was based on this novel. In truth, Irving Shulman turned in his 164-page Rebel Without a Cause script and walked off the film project. But he somehow then swung a deal with Warner Bros. to write this novel (with Judy and Buzz developed as much tougher and meaner characters). He did do the novelization of West Side Story in 1961.

As evident by the Children of the Dark title and Mitchell Hooks cover illustration, one could have walked past this in 1956 totally unaware that it had anything to do with the film. As I recall, the opening chapter describes a party that turns into a fight with frozen food.

For more Mitchell Hooks, go here.