The Complete List of Stephen King Books in Order

Sonia Akavan
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You’re a fan of Stephen King and want to read his books in order, right? But you’re not sure of the order.

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

In this article, you will find a complete list of all books written by King, including collaborations, under pen names, and audio books.

The list is arranged in the chronological based on the year the book was released. And of course, we’ve also got you covered with a book list in order of publication.

NameCategoryProduct
The BodyBest OverallThe Body
Stephen King Goes to the MoviesBudget PickStephen King Goes to the Movies
The Secretary of DreamsUpgrade PickThe Secretary of Dreams

1. The Body

Our rating: 9 / 10

The Body

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Pros:

  • 25th Anniversary Edition
  • Bonus Material
  • Gives a New Perspective On The Stand

(25th Anniversary Special Edition): A Different Season

The Body (25th Anniversary Special Edition): A Different Season is a re-release of Stephen King’s first published book in which he introduces us to the universe of The Stand, including insights into other stories and information on how he originally crafted this classic story.

While not an actual part of The Stand, this special edition still provides a lot of new material for existing fans to discover. For new readers, it gives a deeper look into the world of The Stand to prepare or expand on their enjoyment of the original novel.

2. The Green Mile

Our rating: 9 / 10

The Green Mile

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Pros:

  • Amazingly versatile plot
  • Incredible characters
  • Pages turn fast

Cons:

  • Annoying side characters
  • Ending is somewhat predictable

Coffin-ful of horror! Filled with equal parts of humor, action, and terror, Stephen King’s The Green Mile is a gripping story of supernatural events. The novel won the Bram Stoker Award for Best Novel, and was nominated for the Nebula and British Fantasy Awards.

The book is set in 1935 in a small town in the South called Cold Mountain Penitentiary. Paul Edgecombe is the lead guard on John Coffey’s death-row cell. Coffey is a giant black man who everyone knows is innocent of his crime. Coffey has supernatural powers.

Characters include:>Del, sadistic guard who is openly homophobic and racist

3. Cujo: A Novel

Our rating: 9 / 10

Cujo: A Novel

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Pros:

  • An atmospheric and occasionally spooky book
  • The characters are very believable
  • Some interesting scenes regarding animal abuse
  • This books gave me chills (on a good way)
  • Stephen King is an amazing author

Cons:

  • This book might freak some people out
  • It took me forever to read it

Cujo is definitely not the first book of Stephen King I would recommend to a new King reader. The novel starts off slowly, with very little going on and very little action. In fact, the first 30% or so of the book is spent on character description.

However, once Cujo gets going, it gets very suspenseful and scary. It’s easy to empathize with our unfortunate hero, a preadolescent boy who gets stuck out of town with his mother and pet Saint Bernard, and a rabid and vicious St. Bernard.

This book is now a classic, so if you just have to read it because you love Stephen King, then you’ve just got to read it.

4. Apt Pupil

Our rating: 9 / 10

Apt Pupil

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Pros:

  • Despite being a short novel, it could be a good starter book for newbies.
  • Apt Pupil is a really intense horror book set in 1986.
  • It is a page-turner that will keep the reader glued until the last page.
  • It is a very good read and worth picking up if you have not.

Cons:

  • The ending may be a bit of a letdown.
  • It was a very simple book in which you can probably predict the end.

5. The Library Policeman: Three Past Midnight

Our rating: 9 / 10

The Library Policeman: Three Past Midnight

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Pros:

  • Great for fans of the horror genre
  • Series includes 3 Stephen King Masterpieces

The Library Policeman was revised in 2011 in the book, Full Dark House. In the updated version, a police officer is haunted by a strange entity while working a shift at the public library. The main character feels as though he’s being stalked by something that is trying to enter the world and he’s the only one who can stop it.

The book was originally too long, but King decided to split it into two books with the same characters, but the Library Policeman is the main focus.

This story is very similar to his book Misery, showing readers that Stephen King is able to create new worlds with creative characters in books like this that really stick with you.

6. The Talisman

Our rating: 9 / 10

The Talisman

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Pros:

  • Complex and Creepy Story
  • Cool Monsters and Characters
  • Unusual and Interesting World Settings

Cons:

  • Grown-up 'Scary'
  • Not For Younger Kids

Stephen King is one of the best authors of our time, and his works are loved by countless people of all ages. Although there are hundreds of books by Mr. King, only a few of them really stand out as being terrifying. If you’re looking for an adult horror novel, then The Talisman is one of Stephen King’s most adult books and is worth reading.

The book is a unique addition to the horror genre and has been the subject of critical acclaim. Critics have praised its complex and creepy story, along with its complex and creepy characters and the unusual settings of its world.

The book is intended for an older audience and has a creative storyline that makes it stand out from the rest. It is not really meant for kids, though, so you should probably read it yourself before giving it to your child.

7. The Running Man: A Novel

Our rating: 9 / 10

The Running Man: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Parts are broken down into separate books!

Parts are broken down into separate books…

8. THE DEAD ZONE

Our rating: 9 / 10

THE DEAD ZONE

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In an era of unfettered media, when every stray thought can be sent out into the world with a message, Johnny Smith is a man who wants to escape the soul scorching revelation that awaits him.

When the taciturn Smith survives a terrible accident, he is left with a strange gift: He can see into the future for a brief time after he has touched another person.

The Dead Zone is a modern classic of suspense, made all the more powerful by its psychological insight into a man who finds himself driven to prevent terrible crimes and events before they have taken place.

9. Firestarter

Our rating: 9 / 10

Firestarter

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Pros:

  • The narrative switches between the past and the present
  • The setting is familiar to most people
  • The point-of-view is unique
  • The characters are believable
  • The book leaves you with a feeling of satisfaction.

Cons:

  • Some of the scenes are a little hard to digest
  • Some passages are predictable

Just like the other Stephen King books, "Firestarter" is a great book. If you are thinking of reading the book or just looking for a great read, maybe you should consider this book. However, if you are just looking for something to do, something more interesting than what you are already doing, you might want to skip it and grab another Stephen King book. You will surely forget it if you're prone to laziness. If you really want to read it, you could download it to your computer or put it in your pocket and read it on your phone.

If you have read this book and reviewed it, good for you! Tell us what you feel about it and whether or not you would recommend it to others. You may also want to read the other reviews to see if someone has a better point of view.

10. Needful Things

Our rating: 8 / 10

Needful Things

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Pros:

  • Stephen King is the Author
  • According to King, this is his most disturbing book
  • It has many demented characters
  • The novel is written in 3 parts in accordance with the 3 wishes granted by Leland Gaunt.
  • The book is set during the 1991 Crown Point Tornado in Illinois,
  • The novel was nominated for the Bram Stoker award for Best Horror Novel

Cons:

  • Some people find the book very disturbing.
  • Fans of the book say that it is highly overrated.
  • Margie as the fortune teller does not meet the expectations of the novel.
  • The photos of the book did not meet the mental image of the book.
  • The problems of Margie as a fortune teller and few instances of pedophilia might discourage some people.

11. Stephen King Dark Tower Collection 8 Books Box Set Pack

Our rating: 8 / 10

Stephen King Dark Tower Collection 8 Books Box Set Pack

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Pros:

  • Good for beginners
  • Absolutely worth it for the price
  • Six of the eight books are great reads

Cons:

  • Some of the series was unnecessary or confusing
  • Some of the tone and pacing change after the first three books
  • Some of the second arcs feel rushed and unfinished

Drawing of the Three, The Waste Lands.

If you are an avid (and somewhat masochistic) reader of Stephen King's work like I am, this collection of novels is a great addition to your collection. I've been a big fan of Stephen King's work from an early age – and I've read a lot of his books.

While I've read most of them in the bookstore, I had not read the Dark Tower series. I could not go another day without reading it, so I had to order it.

12. Dolores Claiborne

Our rating: 8 / 10

Dolores Claiborne

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Pros:

  • Creepy Story
  • Pennywise the Clown
  • Keeps Your Interest All The Way Through
  • Short Story That is Perfect For An Evening Read

Dolores Claiborne, one of Stephen King’s bestsellers, was not an easy book to get into at first. I had to slowly develop an attachment to the character Dolores, who is the main character in this story. Although the beginning seems a little slow and boring, once the story kicks in you won’t be able to put the book down. You’ll be so enthralled, it is hard to believe this book is so short. It left me wanting more.

13. Full Dark

Our rating: 8 / 10

Full Dark

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Starts as soon as it finishes,” said King with a nod to the anthology’s opening story, “The Little Green God of Agony,” a dark and memorable tale about a pair of drug-addled, meth-cooking mother-and-son p odders.

The second story, “Fair Extension,” is a tale of revenge told by a man whose life is not what it seems and stars an ominous, unscrupulous antiques dealer. The third story, “A Good Marriage,” explores the lengths to which a woman will go to maintain her façade of perfection, and the brutal consequences that await those who challenge it. The final story is “Black House,” the companion c onnected by a single location, the sinister and terrifying Black House.

With the exception of the 6,000-plus page íŸon’t think you’re going to enjoy this one as much as others’ would be more accurate.

14. Hearts in Atlantis

Our rating: 8 / 10

Hearts in Atlantis

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Pros:

  • Beautiful passages
  • Disturbing at times
  • Character development
  • Detailed descriptions
  • Strong story telling

People who have read Stephen King’s work in the past are well aware of his ability to weave rich tapestries of deep and vibrant stories. The main plot of Hearts in Atlantis is the coming of age story of Bobby Garfield. More specifically, it is the story of Bobby’s journey during the turbulent years of the 1960s.

Hearts in Atlantis features all of King’s strengths as a writer. The characters are deep and realistic, the imagery is vivid, and the stories are broad, complex, and intricately woven.

I am going to give the last words to my favorite Words of Stephen King:

15. The Dark Half

Our rating: 8 / 10

The Dark Half

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Pros:

  • Community and friendship
  • Skeeter's love life
  • Beloved red herrings
  • Dr. Hoskins
  • Darcy Anderson
  • The terrors of the human body

Cons:

  • Bratty kids
  • The town's focus on others

The novel begins with a prologue set in 1970, in which Darcy and her brother, Thad "Hi" Anderson, are children living in a small rural town in Maine. The two frequently play in a cemetery, where Darcy pretends to be dead until he revives her. As the novel progresses, it is established that Thad becomes an author, Darcy marries a lawyer, Sean, and they move to Chicago, Illinois.

Darcy and Sean later have identical twin sons, born during an electrical storm. Thad later returns to the town as a successful author, only to have his novel turned into a film. Thad’s newfound fame leads to jealousy in his brother, who hates the fact that their identities are becoming confused. This is further aggravated when Darcy, unable to tell Thad and her husband apart, becomes romantically attracted to Thad. Thad eventually murders Darcy, an event which inspires the novel “The Night Flier” that he writes afterward.

16. 11-22-63: A Novel

Our rating: 8 / 10

11-22-63: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Reveals the role that a past president had with the JFK assassination
  • Rich characters
  • Lots of twists
  • Timeline is straight forward
  • King's best work since the Dark Tower series and the Storm of the Century miniseries

Cons:

  • Prologue gets a bit long
  • Ends abruptly
  • Too many characters to keep track of

Stephen King's 11-22-63 is the longest book he's ever written, and he does a wonderful job telling the story of Jake Epping, a teacher that goes back in time to stop the assassination of JFK. The story spans the 50s, 60s, and present day. There is a lot of rich symbolism in the book that relates to King's other works (including a meteor that enters the US through Maine and a story about a boy named Owen that will make you think of It). If you are a long time Stephen King fan, the ending of this book will not disappoint.

17. Bag of Bones

Our rating: 8 / 10

Bag of Bones

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Pros:

  • A great collection of short stories
  • Good for fans of the author
  • Fun book to help pass time

Bag of Bones is a cool book full of Stephen King short stories. You can think of it as Stephen King's version of Campfire stories. They made for great reading, and I am going to share a few with you.

The stories range from funny to creepy to dark. Some of the stories are connected, but most aren't. Nevertheless, they're all intriguing. The stories are weird at times, but that's what makes them exceptional.

The first story is called "Mile 81." The idea behind it is that once you cross the freight train tracks on a nameless rural road, things will start to change. It starts off as a paranoid tale of conspiracy theories and illicit activity. But then, the story and the characters in it evolve as you read on. It's interesting and creepy. The rest of the stories range from being emotional to really weird.

18. Finders Keepers: A Novel

Our rating: 8 / 10

Finders Keepers: A Novel

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Pros:

  • An exciting mystery to crack
  • Plots twists and surprises
  • Great characters
  • The tone is realistic
  • An intriguing premise

Finders Keepers is the first installment in a crime thriller series from the famous King. It involves a mysterious discovery in a storage unit by a teenager. Later, a man finds a valuable manuscript in his storage unit.

The man and the boy get involved in a war for ownership of the book when the boy’s dead body is found. It’s a great weekend read for King fans out there.

19. Duma Key: A Novel

Our rating: 8 / 10

Duma Key: A Novel

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Duma Key is a story about Edgar Freemantle, a construction worker who becomes a gifted painter after suffering a severe accident, and his new life on Florida's Duma Key, a place where the past and present merge.

Edgar Freemantle lives alone on the Gulf Coast of Florida. His quiet life is shattered when a construction accident severely injures his hand. He is taken to the hospital and undergoes a radical and untested new type of surgery.

Edgar comes away from the experience with a gift, the ability to sculpt joy out of the very air. New possibilities seem limitless.

20. Doctor Sleep: A Novel

Our rating: 8 / 10

Doctor Sleep: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Heart-warming tale
  • Engaging characters

Cons:

  • Similar to The Shining
  • Longer-winded than previous King novels

Doctor Sleep picks up the story of Danny Torrance, now an adult and working as a hospice caretaker, who must renew his battle with the shining, which has haunted him since childhood.

Luckily for Danny, he is gifted with the ability to shine as well. This gives him a link to a group of psychic children who share a powerful force and who are being pursued by a shape-shifting enemy against whom they must unite.

The book is full of Easter eggs for King fans, and it also returns to the theme of alcoholism that was so key to The Shining.

21. The Regulators

Our rating: 8 / 10

The Regulators

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On a hot, sultry night in the Colorado Rockies, FBI agents Pendergast and Vincent D’Agosta are sent to an isolated hotel on a back road to investigate a strange report. When they arrive, they discover that the owner has recently been killed in a suspicious auto accident. Struck by the strange looks from the other guests in the hotel, the agents are even more concerned when they recognize a family hiding in a room.

Within hours, the agents discover that a sick killer is on the loose. The agents must now rely on their quick wits to save the family’s lives. Will they succeed, or will they become the next victims?

Stephen King has written some incredible novels in his time, and this is a great book to start those new to King with due to the many fantastical elements in this book. I would also recommend this for fans of serial killer novels as the plot has lots of twists and turns.

22. Roadwork: A Novel

Our rating: 8 / 10

Roadwork: A Novel

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The story is about a man named James Allen who is a long-distance truck driver who is married to a woman named Sylvia and is unhappy in his job and marriage. Due to a job layoff, he is forced to take a temporary job building a new road in rural Wyoming. The road is a two-lane blacktop highway cut through the middle of rural Wyoming and roughly a hundred miles from either end of the highway. He is seduced by the scenery and the serene lifestyle.

He talks to no one and interacts with no one while living in a state of seemingly idyllic harmony with only the wind and the coyotes for companionship.

He suffers one hardship when his pregnant wife arrives unannounced to join him. He attempts to get her to return home unsuccessfully. The two continue to live a hermit lifestyle while she grows more and more unhappy, complaining about her missing her friends and the city life that she left behind. He eventually spends two weeks alone on the job site, dumping himself into the road work, getting deeper and deeper into his own world.

23. Rose Madder

Our rating: 8 / 10

Rose Madder

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Pros:

  • The first book by the famous novelist that is a literary and not a horror novel
  • The book is about a woman trying to save her marriage and gains super human powers.
  • Rose and Tom, the husband are trying to get over childhood abuse

24. Dreamcatcher

Our rating: 8 / 10

Dreamcatcher

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Pros:

  • Very Compelling Premise
  • Clever Twist at the End

Cons:

  • Easy to Get Lost in the End
  • Storyjumping Can Be Confusing

To start out, it should be said that Dr. Bev Frankl is not a psychologist like her screen counterpart is in the film adaptation of King’s bestselling novel, although she does do research with manic-depressive patients.

The novel Dreamcatcher by Stephen King tells the story of four men … Jonesy, Henry, Pete, and Beaver … who fought together in the Vietnam War. They ’re all suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and have been sent to a remote part of Maine to recover.

Four young men named Duddits move into the area and become friends with Jonesy, Henry, Pete, and Beaver, four local men who fought together in the Vietnam War. Duddits can read minds and moves objects with his thoughts, and is also very good with practical jokes.

25. Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption

Our rating: 8 / 10

Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption

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Pros:

  • It’s highly acclaimed by Stephen King readers.
  • When it comes to getting Stephen King books, this is arguably the best place to start.
  • It is much lighter compared to the Stephen King novella collection The Bachman Books.
  • It’s really cheap, but the book is worth every cent.
  • It’s even cheaper when it’s on sale!

Cons:

  • Many people would rather read novels.
  • There are reprints of the novella in other titles.
  • It’s not all that entertaining. (That’s just my opinion.)

Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption by Stephen King is the first novella of the author in a collection of three titles. The second title in the collection is The Body while the third and final one is Apt Pupil.

None of the titles in the collection has made it to the big screen, but there is a Shawshank Redemption TV movie that came out in 1994. It’s based on the novella in the collection and is named after it.

I own this collection and it’s one of the best editions most people should start off with.

26. End of Watch: A Novel

Our rating: 8 / 10

End of Watch: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Paul's powers grow as the story progresses
  • Hero overcomes odds to defeat powerful foe
  • Time travel

End of Watch is a complex story with many compelling characters. You’ll soon find that you care as much for the auxiliary characters as you do the main one. Some of the characters you won’t like (the bad guys), but many that you’ll either sympathize with or grow to love.

For readers who like time travel and an epic battle between good and evil, this book will be the one for you. It is the second book in the trilogy, and it was just released on April 14, 2016.

The ending will shock some people. This is a very well-written book with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing. It is a drama, but there are elements of science fiction and horror. Some reviews complain that there is too much science fiction, too many characters, and too many subplots.

27. Guns

Our rating: 8 / 10

Guns

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What makes a good gun for self defense varies from one person to the next. The first thing you need to decide is whether you’d prefer a weapon that shoots one shot at a time, or one with a magazine. The former requires the shooter to keep the material of the gun in mind and aim correctly. The latter is more accurate but needs to be reloaded periodically. If you’re going to be doing a lot of running or climbing, a rifle or pistol with a bigger magazine may be a better choice.

In addition to size, many guns are designed for a particular purpose, such as hunting, target shooting, self defense or police work. The caliber of the gun (the diameter of the bullets it holds) is also important. The greater a gun’s caliber, the more destructive the bullets it can hold; however, larger caliber guns are also heavier and harder to conceal.

A gun is useless without ammunition, and you must choose ammunition based on your goal. Some ammunition, such as buckshot, is suited to close range hunting and self defense situations. Hollow-point ammunition is designed to expand once it enters the body, causing more damage. Armor-piercing ammunition will penetrate through a Kevlar vest, but is poor for small game hunting or self defense.

28. Cell: A Novel

Our rating: 8 / 10

Cell: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Eerie plot
  • Interesting insights into the apocalypse
  • Multiple character perspectives
  • Killer conclusion

The great author Stephen King wrote this excellent novel that is actually a collection of the author's short stories, which I presume are his best (I've read a couple of them).

The book goes over the events that lead to the end of the world, told from multiple perspectives that give a closer and deeper look than we have ever seen before. I just read this book completely recently and I have to say it is a great introduction book to the author's work.

He covers a lot of different aspects of Apocalyptic novels and he does it very well. I think it's best described as 'Post-apocalyptic.' It's just a collection of short stories, but they're great – as most Stephen King stories are.

29. Lisey's Story

Our rating: 8 / 10

Lisey's Story

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Pros:

  • Preserves readers from getting lost through subplots
  • Unforgettable characters

Cons:

  • Long drawn-out war
  • Difficult to accept the ending

Stephen King's The Colorado Kid is set in the 1970s but it is not written in chronological order. The novel starts off by introducing a series of murders in a small Maine town. These murders are written in reverse chronological order to discourage the readers from guessing whodunit.

When King moves on to the real subject of the story, a novelist who is trying to heal from the death of her husband, he still retains the reverse chronological order. The first time the subject of the book is discussed, it comes off as a sub-plot. This is unlikely to discourage the readers from continuing with reading.

The first chapter is arguably the most exciting chapter, but the book is built to allow the readers to find out who killed a Little League baseball player in Peyton Place, Maine.

30. The Bazaar of Bad Dreams: Stories

Our rating: 8 / 10

The Bazaar of Bad Dreams: Stories

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Stephen King returns with a stunning new collection that showcases some of the most legendary storytellers of our time, including George R. R. Martin, Clive Barker, Nelson DeMille, David Liss, and more.

Atypically, King offers a brand-new Long Drive story. He’s also included a previously unpublished Stephen King/Richard Chizmar collaboration.

This will be the largest collection of original stories King has ever assembled and offers fans new, chilling stories that capture the imagination and touch the heart.

31. The Shining

Our rating: 7 / 10

The Shining

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Pros:

  • One of the most horror iconic novels of all time
  • Beautifully written
  • Fits nicely into the genre of paranormal horror
  • Good standalone novel

Cons:

  • Can get a bit slow if you only like horror
  • Overwhelmed at first with how big it is

The Shining was one of the first Stephen King novels I ever read, and it’s still one that I go back to time and time again, largely because of how uniquely terrifying I found it when I was a kid.

The whole concept of ‘going crazy’ and resorting to violence terrified me, and I had to put the book down for a few months. It wasn't until a year later that I finally put all my fears behind me and started the book again.

The book itself an epic in size, which makes it a bit overwhelming for some readers. The first few hundred pages do a fair amount of world-building, so if you can get past that, you're in for some serious fright. Don't get me wrong, it's not overly graphic or anything, but the feeling of terror is definitely palpable.

32. The Mist

Our rating: 7 / 10

The Mist

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Pros:

  • Brilliantly captures the creepy atmosphere of a desolate town in Maine
  • Fresh characters
  • Tense, gripping storyline
  • Starts getting GOOD when everyone is trapped in the supermarket
  • The sense of hopelessness felt by the characters is refreshingly tragic

This is the first Stephen King book I ever read. I read other books by this author because of it. I thought it was extremely well-written, and while I could tell King was not yet as good of a writer as he is now, I could also see promise.

The main characters, a young boy and his mother living in the aforementioned town of Bridgton, are two of the most real character King has ever written (the young boy also has mild celebrity cameo's in other King books).

I was a pretty big wuss when I read this book, but it really made me have to grow up. It helped me realize the importance of forgiveness, and it made me a more respectful person.

33. The Stand: The Complete and Uncut Edition by Stephen King

Our rating: 7 / 10

The Stand: The Complete and Uncut Edition by Stephen King

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This is the unabridged version of Stephen King's classic novel about a virus that may have destroyed 99 percent of the population. The story shifts between a handful of characters. Those in the present try to find or create a secluded safe zone. Those in the past are people who have the potential to be the good force that helps prevent what destroyed the world from happening.

This novel is sometimes called The Stand, which is also the name of a miniseries, which was a fairly close adaption of the novel, but it is not an adaptation. The way they say it is that the mini-series is a dramatization, as opposed to being an adaption.

The novel is broken into three parts: Boulder, Colorado; Las Vegas, America's Playground; and The Free Zone (also specified as The Free Zone Community).

34. Different Seasons

Our rating: 7 / 10

Different Seasons

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Pros:

  • Thriller in Four Seasons
  • Different Stories
  • Well Written

35. Sleeping Beauties: A Novel

Our rating: 7 / 10

Sleeping Beauties: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Co-written with his son Owen King
  • Excellent continuation of the Dark Tower
  • Equal parts horror and drama

Sleeping Beauties is written by the popular New York Times bestselling author Stephen King teaming up with his son, Owen King. Together their team of writing creates one of the most incredible books of 2017 that will keep readers up at night.

Sleeping Beauties is the first book in many years that comes from the mind of Stephen King and it is nearly 1,000 pages of exciting, nail biting, drama. The story starts with some women in a small US town who all fall asleep. The book follows main female characters in a small community where everyone is affected by the phenomenon.

The story is gripping throughout the book, though fans of King’s other work, The Dark Tower, will find it ties into the larger series as well. Finally, the book is also available as an audiobook narrated by Will Patton and has 14 hours of playback.

36. The Stand: The Complete and Uncut Edition

Our rating: 7 / 10

The Stand: The Complete and Uncut Edition

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Stephen King’s The Stand is a dire tale of the survivors of a super-flu that wipes out 99 percent of the population. Complete with heaven’s angels and hell’s demons, a war between God and the Devil and humanity stuck in the middle.

The un-cut version features about 180,000 additional words and is a fantastic read, but I’d recommend carefully reading the un-cut version before you start the regular version to ensure you are prepared for the gory content.

The Stand is an incredible tale of what happens after the world as we know it ends. (Hint: it doesn’t end well.) It features an impressive cast of characters on either side of the war and the struggle is all depicted in painstaking detail.

37. It: A Novel

Our rating: 7 / 10

It: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Provides a lot of context for the film version
  • King finds new material to paint his usual themes
  • A satisfying read
  • Familiar with some fresh additions
  • Short at under 600 pages
  • Sneaks up on you and delivers a spooky horror story

Cons:

  • Similar to The Stand and other long novels by Stephen King
  • Finally the real life counterpart of the villain we know from the film

38. 'Salem's Lot

Our rating: 7 / 10

'Salem's Lot

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King sets up a desolate atmosphere which is filled with horror and dread. His characters are intriguing and have real depth. This quality has grown through his writings. I am quite annoyed with the ending of this story, but it is a classic among horror films

39. Pet Sematary

Our rating: 7 / 10

Pet Sematary

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"Pet Sematary" is the seventh book by horror writer Stephen King.

This particular book is about a family who moves to rural Maine. The family makes friends with a cat and a neighbor who has an unusual pet cemetery behind his house. The cemetery is the local legend of their town, and they have strict rules for the burial of pets in the cemetery. Things get weird when the cat dies, and weirder still when the mother of the family has an accident. Before long, zombies are involved.

"Pet Sematary" was first published on September 15, 1983, by Doubleday, and has sold more than 1 million copies. It is currently on the Top 100 of Stephen King's books on Amazon. The novel has been turned into both a book and a movie, which was released in 1989. While the movie played with the original storyline and characters, the book was written as a first-person narrative.

40. Carrie

Our rating: 7 / 10

Carrie

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Pros:

  • Simple story
  • Brilliant character development
  • Starts off fairly innocent

Cons:

  • Starts slow
  • No real big events happen in the story

Carrie isn’t an easy read. In fact, some readers can’t even finish this classic horror novel. But it is the most popular book of all time, and King said personally that Carrie was his favorite of all his novels. The first novel in the Stephen King book list contains everything that makes Stephen King a master of the horror genre:

  • Simple life descriptions.
  • Few characters that are brilliantly described.
  • A protagonist who we can relate to.
  • A simple, but extremely well-crafted story line.
  • The first step into the twisted and grotesque mind of Stephen King.

41. Everything's Eventual: 14 Dark Tales

Our rating: 7 / 10

Everything's Eventual: 14 Dark Tales

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Pros:

  • Lots of variety
  • The author's best eclectic stories
  • Satisfying endings
  • Not too scary but still a bit eerie

Cons:

  • Some are on the short side
  • Not every story is great

The short stories collection titled “Everything’s Eventual” was originally published in 2002. It contains 13 new stories and an “introduction” chronicling how they came into being. The book also includes a list of all of King’s previously published short stories.

King has a talent for storytelling. He takes a couple of pages to build up to a climax, and if he does it right, you won’t want to put down the book until you return to the comfort of the real world. His characters jump off the page. Profound and complex, they seem so real that you might find yourself seeking them out on Facebook.

42. Night Shift

Our rating: 7 / 10

Night Shift

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Pros:

  • Directed by George A. Romero
  • Great Samhain short stories
  • Slowly builds to one of King's most menacing monsters
  • Introduction of love interest, Linda
  • Plethora of talented fringe artists
  • Features Ted Williams, one of Stephen King's more famous alter egos

Cons:

  • Top-heavy with less-than-stellar short stories
  • Absolutely no main links to the "Dark Tower" series
  • Grows inconsistent and disjointed as it progresses
  • Lengthier stories tend to be eclipsed by shorter ones
  • First story is a let-down

43. The Breathing Method

Our rating: 7 / 10

The Breathing Method

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Pros:

  • Upcoming release (2017)
  • Collaboration with an acclaimed author
  • Story connected to bestselling series
  • Met with immense popularity at premiere

(Upcoming Novel)

"The Breathing Method", an upcoming Stephen King series collaboration with acclaimed author‎ ‎Gene Wolfe, is up next for diehard King fans. The popular author is most famous for his bestselling King's ‎The Dark Tower series, but plans to release a new novel before the upcoming series.

The Breathing Method story revolves around a mother and son who must construct a place for themselves in a post-apocalyptic world.

44. Skeleton Crew: Stories

Our rating: 7 / 10

Skeleton Crew: Stories

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45. The Langoliers

Our rating: 7 / 10

The Langoliers

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A Stephen King Book

46. Christine

Our rating: 7 / 10

Christine

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47. UR

Our rating: 7 / 10

UR

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"Pet Semetary in September 1983."

48. Cycle of the Werewolf: A Novel

Our rating: 7 / 10

Cycle of the Werewolf: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Amusing story
  • Great Stephen King writing
  • Easy to read

Cycle of the Werewolf was first published in 1983. The book was nominated for a World Fantasy Award for Best Novella.

The book is about a young man named Jack, who is cursed in his family with lycanthropy. He has grown up with the curse and finds ways to cope with it. The story initiates when a picturesque pack of wolfs is found in the woods, and Jack begins to suspect it has a connection to him.

The plot plays around the idea of mixing fantasy and reality, as Jack tries to prevent others from realizing the werewolf's true identity.

49. The Sun Dog

Our rating: 7 / 10

The Sun Dog

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Pros:

  • Fascinating story
  • Enough suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat
  • Supernatural theme

Cons:

  • Story jumps back and forth
  • Not enough character development

I picked up a copy of Stephen King’s The Sun Dog back in about 1983 and was completely mesmerized by the book, not to mention totally creeped out. I’d like to thank Stephen King for one of the most interesting nights of my life. King expertly crafts a bizarre supernatural tale that builds to a fever pitch.

The impact of this King novel lies in the final paragraph, which is true to his dramatic style. Be aware that the story does have some graphic scenes; however, they are not as particularly detailed as some of King’s other novels.

I like The Sun Dog, and I think you will, too. If you want more weird Stephen King books, check out the links below to see all of the books in order.

50. Thinner

Our rating: 7 / 10

Thinner

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Pros:

  • More about the aftermath of a crime
  • Addicting Stephen King narrative
  • Interesting lead character

Cons:

  • Gets a little confusing towards the end
  • Doesn’t have a solid ending

(The Bill Hodges Trilogy Book 2)

Thinner is a great sequel to The Dark Half. Bill Hodges, the main character in the novel, is trying to lead a normal life. With his alter ego George Stark gone, he is trying to piece together a life for himself in the real world, but, of course, it is proving difficult.

One rainy afternoon, a man named Billy Halleck intentionally skids his car into a billboard. As the billboard began to collapse, pieces of it fall on Halleck, killing him.

51. Misery: A Novel

Our rating: 7 / 10

Misery: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Gives insight into literary writing styles
  • Gives insight into obsessive behavior of writers
  • Great plot

Misery was one of the first Stephen King books that I ever read, and it remains one of my favorites. The main character of the story is a novelist named Paul Sheldon who is the author of a series of psychological thrillers.

When Paul is injured in a horrific car accident, he is rescued by his number one fan, Annie Wilkes. Though he is grateful to be alive, he finds himself haunted by his huge accident.

As he recovers, he finds himself wondering if Annie Wilkes is a bit crazy. When he tries to escape, Annie keeps him locked in his room and brings him back to good health while trying to interfere with his recovery.

52. Stephen King Goes to the Movies

Our rating: 7 / 10

Stephen King Goes to the Movies

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King himself has made cinematic ventures for years, and the first to get the big screen treatment was his novella Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption. It changed the way that a Hollywood studio viewed an author's work and opened the floodgates for King's ideas to be brought to the big screen.

53. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft

Our rating: 7 / 10

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft

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On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft is a non-fiction memoir written by well-known author Stephen King. The author covers numerous topics about his life, writing, the industry, and his own personal experiences and approaches to regards to his writing.

Chapter 1: Rhetorical Devices

Chapter 2: What Story Means

54. The Eyes of the Dragon: A Novel

Our rating: 7 / 10

The Eyes of the Dragon: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Short Summary
  • Narrator
  • Main Characters
  • Themes
  • Style
  • Critical Reception
  • Author’s Background
  • Plot Summary
  • Complete Summary

Cons:

  • Main Themes
  • Old-fashioned writing style
  • Slow pacing
  • Internal inconsistencies in the plot
  • Inconsistency between the sequels and the original novel

55. Nightmares & Dreamscapes

Our rating: 6 / 10

Nightmares & Dreamscapes

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56. Just After Sunset: Stories

Our rating: 6 / 10

Just After Sunset: Stories

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The Best Stories of Stephen King, King.

Successfully combines all-new tales with classics like “The Widow” and “Graduation Afternoon.”

The Library of America publishes its two-hundredth volume. The book begins with three of Stephen King’s novellas from the eighties, not, as might be expected, from the decades when King published the bestselling books that have made him the most successful writer of horror stories, thrillers, and supernatural tales of all time.

57. Four Past Midnight

Our rating: 6 / 10

Four Past Midnight

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Pros:

  • Consistently ranked as one of King’s best works
  • Consists of four books
  • Every story in this collection is great

Four Past Midnight is a collection of four novellas by horror novelist Stephen King. It was the first collection of short fiction by King, and consists of shorter works with "echoes" of other King works and characters (in particular of the "Dark Tower" series). "The Langoliers" is a sequel to the events behind the novel “It.

58. The Institute: A Novel

Our rating: 6 / 10

The Institute: A Novel

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Stephen King has an uncanny ability to bring back characters from his full-length novels in his short fiction pieces. The Institute is a collection of four short stories that he wrote between 1976 and 1987. All four stories revolve around Frank Dodd, the brutal dorm master of a boys' prep school in Maine that King made famous in the 1981 stand alone novel Pet Semetary.

Dodd is a character that King will return to later in his fiction to show him taking on roles for a small mortuary in Maine and as the frightening "boss" behind a construction company. The stories in this anthology have plenty to hold your interest.

The stories are difficult at times to follow in places as King drops in and out of different time frames, but overall they're very well constructed with great details and presented in an engaging way. Each story has its own ending, but all end with those ties to the 'Skins Game, which is obviously why King brought them to us.

59. Danse Macabre

Our rating: 6 / 10

Danse Macabre

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(History of Supernatural Literature)

In Danse Macabre, King looks at the history of the horror genre and makes numerous literary references to those who have pioneered the genre. He also tries to explain why there has been an increase in recent interest in horror.

60. Secret Windows: Essays and Fiction on the Craft of Writing

Our rating: 6 / 10

Secret Windows: Essays and Fiction on the Craft of Writing

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Pros:

  • A great add on for some King fans
  • Five new essays
  • Essays from some of today's best authors
  • Not a bad price for those who are interested in Stephen King's life and how he writes

Cons:

  • Most Stephen King fans can pass on this one, as it's been out for a few years now
  • If you are a big Stephen King fan that already have most of his bibliography this is not a "must read"
  • The title seems misleading… there are essays by King, but King himself only wrote one of them
  • Short essay format makes it a quick read

The author of many bestselling books, Stephen King is also an accomplished writer of short fiction, journalism, novellas, teleplays, comic books, and screenplays. This collection of non-fiction essays adds to King's already impressive writing resume.

Stephen King reveals the secrets of his creative life in Secret Windows: Essays and Fiction on the Craft of Writing. In the five new essays in these pages, he reflects on his own process and on the craft of writing in general. The works are preceded by a ghostly tale of his own death and resurrection and an introduction by Michael Collings.

The five new essays in this outstanding collection will enlighten and entertain everyone who reads them.

61. Gwendy's Button Box: A Novella

Our rating: 6 / 10

Gwendy's Button Box: A Novella

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A writer and her mother move to a small town named Castle Rock, Maine, where the writer received a box with buttons in it. The box is cursed, and from it she receives telekinetic powers. She must stop a man named Leland Gaunt, a salesman, from hurting anyone else.

62. Charlie the Choo-Choo: From the world of The Dark Tower

Our rating: 6 / 10

Charlie the Choo-Choo: From the world of The Dark Tower

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Author: Stephen King, Peter David

Type: Children’s, Fiction

When King got an offer to write a book for children he got a little nervous … but he was confident he could write fiction for kids, having already done so for the adult market. He began writing a story about a train called Charlie that he thought would be about as difficult as his first children’s book, Charlie the Choo-Choo, which was about a locomotive.

63. BLIND WILLIE

Our rating: 6 / 10

BLIND WILLIE

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About this book …

"Welcome to the Castle of Fear!"

Stephen King is a prolific author. He gives us nightmares in every book that we read. Mr. King has sold more that 300 million book copies and his works have been translated into more than 37 languages.

64. The Tommyknockers

Our rating: 6 / 10

The Tommyknockers

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Pros:

  • Creepy alien cult
  • Very Lovecraftian
  • A lot of action, violence, and sex

When author Sheri S. Tepper's standalone novel set in King's fictional 'Castle Rock' town, THE TOMMYKNOCKER, was published in 1987, critics hailed it as Tepper's best work to date. Tepper fans enjoyed her use of one of her series characters, Sir Rowan Tree, a medieval knight with an "awareness" of the realities behind some of the myths of this world.

When the Stephen King novel THE TOMMYKNOCKERS was released in 1987, it was described by his fans as "Tepper-esque" due to its similarities. Both authors share the belief that myth is connected to a reality often considered to be magical or mystical in nature.

However, there are also some major differences. Tom is a college professor in his 30s that while being caught up in an alien conspiracy that involves the local town's historical controversy about the existence of life on Mars.

65. Faithful: Two Diehard Boston Red Sox Fans Chronicle the Historic 2004 Season

Our rating: 6 / 10

Faithful: Two Diehard Boston Red Sox Fans Chronicle the Historic 2004 Season

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While Faithful isn’t the first Stephen King book you’ll read, this wonderful book will warm up even the non-believers in the King world. This book contains a touching story of friendship between two men and how their lives come together to save one another.

When John suffers a near-fatal heart attack, his two best friends, Richard and Norman, begin to form an unusual relationship. The men alternate writing in this diary-style book as if telling the story of the 2004 Boston Red Sox postseason run.

They give you an inside look at the events that take place from start to finish. You’ll get to see each of their personalities and their interactions with fans, celebrities, and each other. The friendships they form with teammates become evident when family matters come up as well; you get to see how the men interact with each other and how they grow as individuals throughout the course of the 2004 season.

66. The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon

Our rating: 6 / 10

The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon

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ASIN: B00004SVF6

The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon isn’t like the majority of Stephen King books. It’s a novel that’s written for young adults at a reading level around sixth grade.

Although it’s technically a horror book, do not expect blood and guts like King usually writes. Instead, he has crafted a touching tale.

67. Blaze: A Novel

Our rating: 6 / 10

Blaze: A Novel

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Blaze can be described as King's most autobiographical novel to date, telling the story of his own addiction to alcohol and other drugs in the 1960s. Blaze is a true masterpiece in King's collection of books, yet it never reaches the popularity of many of his other novels.

The book is short and well paced. Blaze is the story about a famous writer, Blaze Harding, along with his alcoholism. It flashes back and forth between the author's young adulthood in the 1960s and is actually a pretty fun and unique read.

68. Desperation

Our rating: 6 / 10

Desperation

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Desperation is a novel by American author Stephen King. The short novel was later collected in King's book Hearts in Atlantis. The story draws several plot elements from the novel The Mist, also by King. The story takes place in the fictional town of Desperation, Nevada, located on the border with Utah. Although the story is set in the present day (or possibly the near future), many references throughout the text place the story in the 1990s.

The plot focuses on the four members of a family trapped in the town. The family are on a road trip when they are snowed in at a Nevada motel during a blizzard. While there, they meet Frank Dodd, a serial killer who is described as being responsible for the deaths of more than one hundred people. Frank convinces them to accept his invitation to dinner by telling them that he has found religion, that he is repentant, and that he suffers from cancer.

After dinner, he locks them in his "paradise" and refuses to let them leave, telling them that he will eventually kill and eat them all. As the days go by with no sign of rescue, the family struggles to find a way out of the situation while Frank pursues them and hunts them.

69. Black House: A Novel

Our rating: 6 / 10

Black House: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Cleverly constructed easy-reading book
  • Some of the best character writing of Donaldson’s career
  • Echoes of The Talisman and the Dark Tower series
  • A complete story for all ages
  • An unexpected and satisfying climax
  • Simply written with a clear purpose

Cons:

  • A few less-than-stellar passages which have turned off a few readers
  • A few of the more graphic scenes may bother some readers
  • No readers under the age of 10

Black House is a sequel to the New York Times bestseller The Talisman. Take place 20 years after the events described in the novel, this book introduces a new hero named Jack Sawyer.

Jack is back in the town of French Landing after he leaves Black House. All of a sudden he is approached by his old friend, the one and only Rose Madder. Soon the two encounter similar paranormal phenomena from the town’s past.

Together they discover the Black House, the place where everything started. It is up to them to learn more about the mysterious house that is slowly drawing the town towards another evil.

70. Nightmares in the Sky: Gargoyles and Grotesques

Our rating: 6 / 10

Nightmares in the Sky: Gargoyles and Grotesques

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71. The Long Walk

Our rating: 6 / 10

The Long Walk

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Pros:

  • Ambitious, long-form story
  • Stephen King at his best
  • Great characters who stay with you

Cons:

  • Boils down to one man versus the world
  • Not all people love the ending

The Long Walk is the first novel written by Stephen King. The story deals with the annual 100-mile walk from Maine to Florida, a death-inducing contest that will determine the new leader of the totalitarian state of America in decades to come.

Potential entrants must be 15 or under, and must survive 20 hours a day of constant walking, with the faster walkers being killed at the end of each day. It's simplicity at its best, as the book asks the really interesting question of “What would you do to survive, and how far would you go?”

King has stated that this is his favorite of all his books. My only problem with this book is that not everyone loves the ending. Personally, I loved the ending, but I remember a few people being upset with it.

72. Insomnia

Our rating: 6 / 10

Insomnia

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This story is about an insomnia specialist who happens to treat a man at a hotel in Derry (coincidence?, I don’t think so).

As he helps the patient, he begins to notice signs that something is happening with people in Derry. The patient’s friend is killed, and as the patient is driven for a treatment session, two people are killed in a car crash. As the patient’s stories unfold, we’re introduced to a powerful, dark, and inexplicable evil that’s haunting Derry. For some reason, the whole town is suffering from insomnia.

Many people are beginning to commit suicide. The killer is using some sort of psychic mind control that causes them to commit suicide.

73. The Secretary of Dreams

Our rating: 6 / 10

The Secretary of Dreams

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In this second volume of three of The Secretary of Dreams, King collects four novellas, which were all published in different magazines. The collection also features an introduction by King and someone who has been given the pseudonym of John Swithen, and an afterword by King.

The collection features "The Little Sisters of Eluria", "The Jaunt", "The Death of Jack Hamilton", and "Everything's Eventual".

74. Secret Window

Our rating: 6 / 10

Secret Window

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Pros:

  • Good for Horror and Thriller fans
  • Good mystery

Secret Window, Secret Garden is a short-story collection with fantastic writing and a very interesting detective. King likes to dabble in detective work quite a bit in his books.

The stories have interesting characters and will answer questions like what it would be like to have a time machine, whether or not young teens are capable of really bad things, or how a good man was brought down by his desire to make his holidays more memorable. It just comes down to question if the characters are likable.

If you are looking for a short story collection that has a little something for everyone, this book is one I would keep on my shelf.

75. STEPHEN KING’S “THE SECRETARY OF DREAMS” SIGNED LIMITED EDITION TRAY CASED SET

Our rating: 6 / 10

STEPHEN KING’S “THE SECRETARY OF DREAMS” SIGNED LIMITED EDITION TRAY CASED SET

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Pros:

  • Brand New item, sealed in original packaging.
  • Material: Hardcover, Publisher: Cemetery Dance Publications.
  • Publisher: Cemetery Dance Publications.
  • Author: Stephen King.
  • Number of Pages: Volume One: 288, Volume Two: 346.
  • Volume One: First.
  • Volume Two: First.
  • First Edition.
  • Hard Cover.
  • Published September 2011.

Cons:

  • None.

The Secretary of Dreams: Volume One & Volume Two together as a set. Unused and in excellent condition.

76. If It Bleeds

Our rating: 6 / 10

If It Bleeds

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Pros:

  • Great Steampunk elements
  • Interesting storyteller
  • Attitude throughout the story
  • Humor throughout the book
  • Builds characters well
  • Fun to read
  • Thrilling ending

We Can Kill It.

If it Bleeds, We Can Kill It is an excellent steam-punk novel that is for adults only. It tells the story of a secret group of regiments called the Seekers. The Seekers are stationed in London in the near future. They go out and fight against the zeppelins with airships. The Seekers and their airships are armed with Harpoon guns that can win the war.

The main character is a young girl who is a soldier in the North Atlantic fleet. Her parents are dead and she is adopted by a family she doesn’t know. She gets some strange messages and starts to unravel some mysteries.

77. The Outsider: A Novel

Our rating: 6 / 10

The Outsider: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Quick paced
  • Characters are likable
  • Twisty plot

Debuting at number one on the New York Times Bestseller list, Stephen King’s The Outsider is a book worth picking up.

Quentin P. Lambert has a story to tell. But will anyone believe him?

He was one of the most popular boys in his small-town high school. A basketball star. A popular kid. A high school quarterback who never lost a game, and led his team to two state championships.

78. Elevation

Our rating: 6 / 10

Elevation

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Pros:

  • Offers Charming Look Into Character’s Life Before The Events of A Full Dark, No Stars
  • Well Written

This novella was published in 2014 and offers the reader a charming look into the life of a little known character of the collection, Roy. Elevation really offers a great introductory novella that will likely make readers want to explore this character further. I could see a feature film being made of it. I was particularly struck by a scene in which two of the characters discuss the house and how they got there. Overall, I found this to be a engaging and charming read.

79. Joyland

Our rating: 6 / 10

Joyland

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Pros:

  • A themed collection of King novellas
  • Good stories
  • Readable & enjoyable

Summary:

Complete Joyland (Hard Case Crime Novels) Bk – This hard hitting, vintage detective story set in the amusement park is an excellent yarn. King has great fun with the detective genre and this is certainly the case. An old-timey murder mystery wrapped in a nostalgic love affair, this delicious novel is by far my favorite of his. The book starts with a woman, an old theme park, and a young man’s obsession. As he delves deeper into the murder mystery, he eventually learns that even haunted memories can be forgotten in due time. It is a tale of finding love where one least expects it. I was sucked right into this story from the first sentence and couldn’t put it down until the last. While it is not a traditional “Stephen King” story, it is still an excellent read that lends itself to many different re-readings.

80. Under the Dome: A Novel

Our rating: 6 / 10

Under the Dome: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Nice Suspense and Action
  • Portrays Global Warming Truthfully
  • It is a Fascinating Read

Cons:

  • At Times, the Plot is a Bit Slow
  • Characters Could Be Better Developed
  • Some Readers Mentions It is not Stephen King's Best Work

Stephen King is not for the faint of heart. He has horror stories in his repertoire of works, and tends to upset many of his fans when they see his more famous works turned into movies.

Stephen King's novel, Under the Dome, is a good book for people who like love mixed into thier horror stories.

Two things that I really appreciate are the action and suspense, and also the concept the book introduces. It is one of Stephen King's novels that aims to teach something about our world, about environmental awareness issues, and what we can do about it.

81. Gerald's Game

Our rating: 6 / 10

Gerald's Game

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Pros:

  • Great characters
  • Smartly written
  • Creative story

Cons:

  • Not for the squeamish
  • Spooky in parts

Stephen King’s book, Gerald’s Game is a thriller about a married couple that has experimented with BDSM for a while. We follow the wife, Jessie, as she accidentally handcuffs herself to a bedpost while she and her husband Gerald are in a remote cabin during a summer vacation. Gerald has a heart attack and dies, and Jessie is alone and frightened with no way to free herself from the post.

The book presents how Jessie overcomes her fear and deals with her husband’s death and her own survival. This is a page turner from start to finish. Highly recommended for readers that like a good scare with their thriller.

82. The Colorado Kid

Our rating: 5 / 10

The Colorado Kid

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We primarily recommend this edition to those looking to complete their Stephen King Library. This is not to be missed for Stephen King fans.

83. Mr. Mercedes: A Novel

Our rating: 5 / 10

Mr. Mercedes: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Mostly positive reviews on Amazon
  • Some good plot twists
  • Story stays consistent
  • Entertaining characters
  • Can be read in one sitting
  • Great for fans of dark thrillers

Cons:

  • Some minor grammar errors
  • Some say it’s a little slow

The Bill Hodges Trilogy is a phenomenal crime-thriller series by Stephen King. This book reverberates with the voice of a realist noir crime writer. Mr. Mercedes is King’s indulgence into crime-fiction. The characters are incredibly well-developed and engaging.

In a single, unrelenting stroke, Stephen King proves why he is the master and we’re the disciples. I’m a huge fan of King’s work, and this book makes me think the best is yet to come.

84. The Bachman Books

Our rating: 5 / 10

The Bachman Books

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85. Blockade Billy

Our rating: 5 / 10

Blockade Billy

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Pros:

  • Gory and graphic murder mystery
  • Clever idea for an original novel
  • Starkly described small town America
  • Very short novel
  • First Stephen King book that I have ever read

Cons:

  • A lot of swearing
  • No great plot twists

Blockade Billy is a Stephen King novella that was released in 2012. It is about a baseball player that gets murdered. It is very much a mystery novel. If you are a fan of hard-boiled mysteries and Stephen King this book may just be for you.

After you read the book, look up to see the arrangement of the 50 states in order from west to east according to their nine-digit ZIP code. The reason for this arrangement is explained at the start of the book.

The story is about a baseball player in the 1950s, Billy Butcher. He gets murdered in a small town in upstate New York and it is up to Lew Fones, a local detective, to figure out who the culprit is.

86. Revival: A Novel

Our rating: 5 / 10

Revival: A Novel

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Pros:

  • Engaging storytelling
  • Good Short Read

Today, Revival is the most recent book written by Stephen King……….

The book is narrated by Jamie Morton, who is an addict. He is married to the girl next door,Aimee, who has the face of an angel.

Jamie has recently started hanging out with his childhood friend, Charlie, who is now Pastor of the local church. Charlie's son,Robbie, seems very possessive of him.

87. Hearts in Atlantis by Stephen King

Our rating: 5 / 10

Hearts in Atlantis by Stephen King

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88. Rage

Our rating: 5 / 10

Rage

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Pros:

  • A Novella
  • Great for the Price

Cons:

  • Plot Is the Simplest of His Works
  • May Appeal Only to King Fans

(Simon & Schuster Edition)

I bought this book because I love Stephen King, but I had never read it. My eyes were opened to King's early early work, specifically his earlier works.

Rage has an amazing portrayal of an adolescent 'bad boy' living with a mentally ill stepmother, and a weak father who is worse than useless. Rage was a critically acclaimed novel when it was published in 1977.

89. Stephen King From a Buick 8 1st edition 1st print !

Our rating: 4 / 10

Stephen King From a Buick 8 1st edition 1st print !

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90. Stephen King's N.

Our rating: 4 / 10

Stephen King's N.

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One of his books you'll only find in one bookstore in Bangor, ME. You may have read his books, but not know all the cool facts about them. This is a great quiz for Stephen King enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is considered Stephen King's best book?

It's generally agreed that his most popular novel is It, but his other best-known novel is The Stand. You'll notice that many of his books are separated into trilogies or are linked, and you may have questions about what order you should read them in. This list will provide you with the complete chronological order of his novels, short stories, and non fiction.

Note: Many of Stephen King's books that were published prior to 1978 were released under different titles for later reissues. I have included alternate titles for the first book of each series.

Note: In September of 2017, King announced that his next novel was titled Sleeping Beauties, and the book would be written along with his son Owen. A publication date has not been announced yet.

How many IT books are there?

The order of Stephen King books is the same as the order of Stephen King movies:

  • Carrie
  • 'Salem's Lot
  • The Shining
  • Night Shift
  • The Stand
  • The Dead Zone
  • Firestarter
  • Cujo
  • Different Seasons
  • Cycle of the Werewolf
  • Christine
  • Pet Sematary
  • The Eyes of the Dragon
  • Misery
  • The Tommyknockers
  • The Dark Half
  • Four Past Midnight
  • Needful Things
  • Gerald's Game
  • Dolores Claiborne
  • Insomnia
  • Rose Madder
  • Desperation
  • The Green Mile
  • The Regulators
  • The Mist
  • Hearts in Atlantis
  • Jayne's Fall
  • Bag of Bones
  • Dreamcatcher
  • Just after Midnight
  • Black House
  • From a Buick 8
  • The Secretary of Dreams

How many books has Stephen King done?

Stephen King has published 49 novels and over 200 short stories in his lifetime. Let's take a quick look at some of his most popular works.

Stephen King's first novel Carrie was published in 1974, but he has written some of his most popular works since 1990.

His most famous book is undoubtedly The Stand. It has one of the longest book titles and has also been turned into a TV miniseries.

Under the Dome was also popular. It was also a TV miniseries and has been made into a film.

Pet Sematary is a remake of the old Stephen King novel and was not well received by fans and critics.

The Shawshank Redemption is one of King's most critically acclaimed books. It was adapted into a very popular film.

The Eyes of the Dragon is one of King's less well known works, but it is often referred to and people who have read it enjoy it.

In what order should I read Stephen King books?

Though Stephen King has written multiple stand-alone novels and short stories, he is perhaps best known for his lengthy continuing series featuring various characters and locales. The order in which you should read these books is absolutely critical unless you have a lot of time on your hands.

The two main series are The Dark Tower (The Stand, The Shining, IT, etc.) and The Bill Hodges Trilogy (Mr. Mercedes, Finders Keepers, End of Watch) – and King himself has tried to nail down the order they should be read. The issue is that not every book in these series follows the same order.

So, we've made your life easier by ordering the series in chronological order. Unfortunately, this means you can't jump in anywhere in these series if you're a King newbie. But ride it out; they're both great.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to read more about Stephen, you should check out our comprehensive list of Stephen King books that is updated regularly.

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