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Showing posts with label Coming of Age. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Coming of Age. Show all posts

The Voice of the Night Review

Dean Koontz, Brian Coffey, Coming Of Age, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Mystery, Psychological, Suspense, Thriller

The Voice Of The Night

Published: 1980
Author: Dean Koontz (Written as Brian Coffey)
Genre: Coming Of Age, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Mystery, Psychological, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:


The Review

Dean Koontz's work The Voice of the Night was published under the pen name Brian Coffey. Mr. Koontz is an entertainer's entertainer. I suppose I've read almost all of his writings. I must have liked them since I kept returning. However, after 5 to 7 works by Koontz, you begin to discover a pattern. There's usually a heroic hero, a lovely heroine, and a dog. You are always welcome, and while it may appear repetitive, it is not, and you must read to comprehend the power of words. This novel and its companion short story deviated from the norm while preserving the author's great writing style. That is very enjoyable.

I was never a fan of books with children as the main protagonists, even as a child, since I believed some of the things they did were impossible until I started reading Stephen King and Dean Koontz, simply read IT by Stephen King or Firestarter, and this one was still really excellent. 

Because there is so much dialogue in this story, it only took a few days to read. Koontz, as always, does an excellent job of explaining everything from the vital aspects to the fundamental surroundings. He clearly puts thought into almost everything he says. 

There does appear to be one common flaw in many of his writings, and that is his fondness for mature and occasionally perverted themes and scenarios. This is vital to the tale to some extent, although it appears to be uncontrolled with Koontz. It's as though he feels compelled to include anything in order for the novel to mature at some time. It was just this narrative that I could grasp since it is used to portray a character's morals, yet it is not in some cases. 

But when I think about it with an open mind, it becomes clear that he sometimes does it to prove to the readers that a character is pure evil and in some cases, the extent of love two characters have for each other, but again, using adult content can be a double-edged sword and many readers may not like it, but on the other hand, many readers like it in any form possible, so it all comes down to the readers' preference. 

That, along with the fact that he seldom manages to create a narrative without some form of romance, gives the impression that he is making an attempt to include something for every type of reader. 

There are better Koontz books out there, but this one is still worth reading. Just be ready for some depravity. After saying that, I must reiterate that I adore this method of attempting to write something that will appeal to every reader's taste, but it still creates a problem of choice, since some may enjoy or despise the style. But I'm satisfied, and I know a lot of folks who adore Dean Koontz's work.

Dean Koontz's works are always genuinely rewarding and pleasant. This was an older book, and I had heard that it was a simple book with a simple tale, so I wanted to see it for myself. 

What I discovered was a gently developing tension that culminated in an unexpected ending. I stayed up all night reading the book because it is stunning. 

I've previously read all of Koontz's works since the beginning of his writing career, so as I wait for his latest, I've been reading some of the earlier books and revisiting the current ones. 

Mr. Koontz has brought me so much delight, suspense, and insight throughout the years! In addition to the narrative, which has brought hours of entertainment, I generally uncover a deeper meaning. 

Fortunately, I'm constantly reading the latest books by great authors and sometimes not-so-great authors, and I'm hoping he'll have written another before I complete the current ones I'm reading. I honestly don't know how people live without loving Dean Koontz's writings!!!

This novel and its companion short tale broke the usual pattern while maintaining the superb writing style. Very entertaining. Yes, the style was distinct. It didn't always read like Dean Koontz. And any novel that begins, "Have you murdered anything?" with two adolescent lads makes you uncomfortable. You initially wonder, "Do I even want to read it?" But you should read it if you're like me and many other readers who love Dean Koontz and Stephen King for their insane ideas and stories with twists that will blow your mind. But I still encourage you to take a chance. It's worthwhile.


Final Thoughts

I almost quit reading this novel because I felt it was taking me somewhere I didn't want to go, and I was planning to read it ten pages a day, but then I thought, let's read a bit more, and it turned out to be a perfect decision! 

As I read further, I understood that the author was narrating an age-old narrative, and I thoroughly loved it! Great narrative, well-crafted, and the sad aspect is that it reveals mankind's actual character!

Overall, this is a terrific novel with intriguing characters and enough narrative to keep you engaged from beginning to end. The nicest aspect is how simple I found it to identify to the characters and scenario since it could happen to anybody. 

I found myself seriously despising Colin's mother. It's simple to see where she's coming from, but I practically wanted to step into the book and urge her to quit speaking and listen for a change. 

She may be the lesser of two evils in Colin's situation, but she is just as awful a parent as Colin's father. 

Roy was excellent as the "evil guy." As several of my reader friends have pointed out, it's easy to despise him while yet feeling sorry for him. Except for the murderous aspect, he reminds me of a lot of youngsters I've known throughout the years. 

The "accident back story" might be difficult to read as a parent, but it is essential to the storyline progression. 

My only criticism of this book is its finale. I understand why Koontz chose that ending, but it leaves the reader hanging. It would be fascinating to hear how the other characters are resolved, such as the Colin-Mother problem, where Colin and Heather go from there, and, of course, what happens to Roy. 

We'll never know because this novel was written a long time ago with no sequel. But don't worry, it's a full plot; you simply have to use your imagination to fill in the blanks for the minor characters, just like any movie or book with a straightforward finale.

This book reminds me of some of Stephen King's early works. We are aware of the presence of evil greater than that which we have confronted. 

The short tale "Silence" adds significantly to the worth of this story and was a welcome addition. This is a highly recommended read!


Synopsis

This cult favorite coming-of-age suspense includes a BONUS short story “Silence,” on Kindle!

“A fearsome tour of an adolescent's psyche. Terrifying, knee-knocking suspense.” - Chicago Sun-Times

“Hair-raising from cover to cover.” - Houston Chronicle

#1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz gives new meaning to blood brothers in this chilling audiobook of friendship gone awry.

No one could understand why Colin and Roy were best friends. Colin was so shy; Roy was so popular. Colin was fascinated by Roy - and Roy was fascinated by death. Then one day, Roy asked his timid friend: “You ever killed anything?”

From that moment on, the two were bound together in a game too terrifying to imagine - and too irresistible to stop.
NOW WITH BONUS SHORT STORY “SILENCE”

30 years later...the story continues with the spine-tingling follow-up “Silence.”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Blood Brothers, Easy To Read, Edge Of Your Seat, Killed Anything, Koontz Books, Main Characters, Page Turner, Santa Leona, Year Old, Years Ago

Rating: 85/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

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Different Seasons Review

Stephen King, American, Classic, Coming Of Age, Drama, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Psychic, Psychological, Shape Shifter, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller, Werewolf, Witches, Wizard

Different Seasons

Published: 27, August 1982
Author: Stephen King
Genre: American, Classic, Coming Of Age, Drama, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Psychic, Psychological, Shape Shifter, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller, Werewolf, Witches, Wizard

Check the summary of this book here:
Different Seasons Summary


The Review

Different Seasons is a compilation of four Stephen King short stories that are more dramatic in tone than the horror fiction for which he is well known. The four novellas are linked by finer points related to each of the four seasons. The collection is significant for the fact that virtually all of its novellas have been adapted into Hollywood films, one of which, The Shawshank Redemption, was nominated for Best Picture at the 1994 Academy Awards.

There is also a small afterword written by King on January 4, 1982, at the conclusion of the book. He explains why he hadn't previously submitted the novellas (Essentially, all four were written at different times.) for publication in it. 

Early in his career, his agents and editors voiced worry that he would be labeled as a horror writer. His horror works, on the other hand, proved to be highly popular, putting him in high demand as an author. 

Novellas that did not deal largely with the supernatural, on the other hand, were extremely difficult to publish since there was no mass market for straight fiction stories in the 25,000 to 35,000 word range.


This book's short tales are as follows:

01 - Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption
Subtitle: Hope Springs Eternal

This was an exciting and well-written story. The novella and the film are practically similar, with the novella having more details, as is almost typically the case with book versions. 

I loved both the film and the book, which is uncommon for me to appreciate both the film and the book. The book was turned into a film, The Shawshank Redemption, starring Tim Robbins as Andy and Morgan Freeman as Red, as well as a stage play of the same name. 

A gritty, dramatic jail story that had me riveted from beginning to finish. I really enjoy this type of storytelling because it seems like you're sitting with someone and listening to a story that keeps you captivated by the narrator's voice.

The film adaptation is widely regarded as one of the most reputable films of all time, having been nominated for seven Academy Awards at the 67th Academy Awards in 1995, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Freeman. In an interview, Morgan Freeman remarked that this novella is his favorite book.


02 - Apt Pupil
Subtitle: Summer of Corruption

Apt Pupil is divided into 30 chapters, many of which are represented by months. The novel takes place across four years in a fictional Southern California neighborhood named "Santo Donato," with most of the action taking place in the first year and the latter months. It's the only novella in Different Seasons that's told in the third person.

A connection to "Strawberry Spring," a short tale published in the King collection Night Shift, is mentioned, which isn't anything major but is nevertheless an Easter egg for the faithful fans.

Another similarity is the hotel room number 217, which is the same as the famed Overlook Hotel room in The Shining. 

Furthermore, in The Shining, Jack Torrance is working on a play with a character named Denker, which is the same name as Dussander's alter ego. 

As a result, some fans believe Apt Pupil is Torrance's play. In the afterword to Different Seasons, King recounts writing Apt Pupil right after The Shining, which might explain why it has such a direct link.

The tale differed from the film in that it was darker and had more violence, which was typical. I thought it was almost perfect, but not quite on the level of Rita Hayworth and The Shawshank Redemption, but it was still a fantastic book.

This is more in line with what we've come to expect from King. By no means a horror story, but rather a thriller; a psychological thriller. I couldn't exactly recall the narrative at first, but as I began to read, it all came flooding back to me. Because these are sick people, it might be difficult to read at times, but it is an extremely well-written read!


03 - The Body
Subtitle: Fall from Innocence

This is a coming-of-age narrative about four twelve-year-old boys who were searching for the body of a missing boy. It lacks the conclusion of the previous stories, it's a very well coming-of-age narrative with a lot of well-written language depicting childhood friendships, all situated in the heart of rural America.

This is the narrative that inspired the film Stand By Me. I enjoyed the film and the story. The plot clearly provides a lot more depth, and it departs significantly from the book in some areas.

The plot is, of course, fantastic, but it is quite lengthy and retrospective rather than action-packed. We are privy to the narrator's thoughts, and this is a work of literary coming of age. 

I'm pleased I read it again since it made me feel nostalgic and sorrowful. This tale includes links to the Stephen King world, with Sheriff Bannerman named multiple times, however, given it takes place in the 1950s, he is just a Constable at this point, and Shawshank Prison is now part of the canon, being mentioned twice.


04 - The Breathing Method
Subtitle: A Winter's Tale

This is a horrific story that comes closest to what we would anticipate from King in this collection. There is a lengthy prelude outlining a man's life and how his employer invites him to a club. 

Finally, the club has certain mystical properties that are never explored. The focus is on an engaging narrative recounted by a character in the story, which concludes with a great spooky twist. 

I'm not surprised there isn't a film for this one. The content just does not appear to be fit for adaptation into a film. But film adaptation may occur soon, however, there has been no further news regarding the project since 2019.


By the time this book came out, Stephen King had established himself as a master of genre fiction up to this point in his career, including the Bachman volumes, which, although not horror (in my mind,) are nevertheless diverse genres. 

With four novellas included in this book, King returns to straight fiction, offering some of his best work to date and demonstrating that he can write pure fiction and even literature.


Final Thoughts

First and foremost, you should not be comparing three of these novellas to Stephen King's more conventional tales. I think King is a wonderful writer, but there's a considerable difference between his horror stories and even his fantasy and this work, which I believe belongs more squarely in the area of literary fiction. 

Some of the tale and location features remind me of Richard Russo, who has a number of stories where the setting or town is nearly part of the action, and the coming of age sections remind me of many Tobias Wolff short stories.

I believe that all four novels in this collection deserve full points and recommendations, but one additional opinion is that the first Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption is deserving of that ranking, and makes the complete collection worthwhile to purchase. 

Overall, this is a brilliantly written book with a variety of topic matter and storytelling methods... Three of these pieces have been adapted into films, some of which have been nominated for Academy Awards, and the writing is both sharp and memorable.


Synopsis

“Includes the stories “The Body” and “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption”—set in the fictional town of Castle Rock, Maine

A “hypnotic” (The New York Times Book Review) collection of four novellas—including the inspirations behind the films Stand By Me and The Shawshank Redemption—from Stephen King, bound together by the changing of seasons, each taking on the theme of a journey with strikingly different tones and characters.

This gripping collection begins with “Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption,” in which an unjustly imprisoned convict seeks a strange and startling revenge—the basis for the Best Picture Academy Award-nominee The Shawshank Redemption.

Next is “Apt Pupil,” the inspiration for the film of the same name about top high school student Todd Bowden and his obsession with the dark and deadly past of an older man in town.

In “The Body,” four rambunctious young boys plunge through the façade of a small town and come face-to-face with life, death, and intimations of their own mortality. This novella became the movie Stand By Me.

Finally, a disgraced woman is determined to triumph over death in “The Breathing Method.”

“The wondrous readability of his work, as well as the instant sense of communication with his characters, are what make Stephen King the consummate storyteller that he is,” hailed the Houston Chronicle about Different Seasons.”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Bob Gunton, Brad Renfro, Bruce Davison, Bryan Singer, Corey Feldman, Dead Body, Even Though, Frank Darabont, Hayworth And The Shawshank, Ian Mckellen, Morgan Freeman, Nazi War, Rita Hayworth, River Phoenix, Rob Reiner, Tim Robbins, War Criminal, Wil Wheaton


Rating: 100/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

Stand by Me (1986) (R)

Apt Pupil (1998) (R)

The Shawshank Redemption (1994) (R)

Secret Window (1994) (PG-13)

The Langoliers (1994) (PG-13)

Under The Dome - Season 1 (2013) (13+)

Dreamcatcher (2003) (R)

Cell (2016) (R)

Bag of Bones Season 1 (2012) (13+)

Dolores Claiborne (1995) (R)

It (1990) (R)

It (2017) (R)

It Chapter Two (2019) (R)

Needful Things (1993) (R)

Desperation (2006) (16+)

Silver Bullet (1985) (R)

The Tommyknockers (1993) (M)

Christine (1983) (R)

The Dead Zone (1983) (R)

Misery (1990) (R)

Carrie (1976) (R)

Firestarter (1984) (R)

Mr. Mercedes Season 01 (2017) (TV-MA)

Thinner (1996) (R)

The Running Man (1987) (R)

The Dark Half (1993) (R)

The Green Mile (1999) (16+)

Salem’s Lot (1979) (G)

Salem’s Lot: The Miniseries (2004) (NR)

The Dark Tower 8 Book Boxed Set (Paperback)

The Dark Tower (2017) (PG-13)

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Gwendy's Magic Feather Review

Richard Chizmar, Stephen King, American, Classic, Coming Of Age, Fiction, Horror, Magic, Supernatural, Thriller

Gwendy's Magic Feather

Published: 19, November 2019
Author: Richard Chizmar (Foreword by Stephen King)
Genre: American, Classic, Coming Of Age, Fiction, Horror, Magic, Supernatural, Thriller
Book 2 of 3: Gwendy's Button Box Trilogy

Check the summary of this book here:


The Review

Gwendy's Magic Feather is a medium-sized novel by Richard Chizmar, and it is the sequel to the preceding novel Gwendy's Button Box. With a foreword by Stephen King, this is the first novel set at Castle Rock written by another author! Ben Baldwin created the hardcover's full-color cover artwork, while Keith Minnion created the inside artwork.

Once again, a book that is not as huge as a bookworm like me and many others like me will feel is too small, but for a casual reader, it is sort of typical. However, even with such a small size, it is still a wonderful read, which makes it feel even smaller.

This was a fantastic addition to Gwendy's narrative. When you finish an excellent novel, you're left wondering, "What happened next?" 

Without giving anything away, I hope you'll like Gwendy's continuing story and her experiences, problems, and successes. 

Chismar elevated the plot to new heights. For the first book, Stephen King chose a fantastic writer to partner with, and Richard grabbed the wheel for this one. An excellent book and a fantastic pick. It gently draws you in, and once you're hooked, you can't get enough of it.

One thing that all readers must realize is that this novel was not written by Stephen King, and they should not expect it to be. It's good but not as good as Stephen King's.

Many people complained about the politics in this (not written by Stephen King) and other books written by Stephen King, and I am continually stressing that he is only creating fiction, and we should read the works as such. 

Politics may appear to be about a real-life president, but in my opinion, it is not true, and it is just like any fiction when a mentally ill politician can win an election and be a major problem for the world, and we must grow up as humans and rise above these wars and racism, which are essentially a simple tactic to rule over mindless masses. If you haven't seen the film Idiocracy, you should watch it to see what I'm talking about.

I don't like to compare authors, and while Richard Chizmar is an excellent and talented writer, no one can compete with Stephen King, Anne Rice, Dean Koontz, and the likes of these and many other legends from the past and present, but we must-read books by these new authors so they can write more and become as great as the legendary figures.

Great narrative and it's nice to see Gwendy all grown up. She's a fantastic character, and she's been given all of her charm in this narrative. It was also wonderful to return to Castle Rock through Gwendy's eyes. 

Richard did an excellent job with the narrative, and I'm sure fans won't be able to wait to see what the next narrative has in store for these characters.

This relates to the narrative of Gwendy's life, her current situation, and the paths her life has led her. I won't tell much more, but it demonstrates an interesting route and enough to keep readers interested in the plot. 

I liked that the title of the book doesn't actually reveal anything to the reader; frequently, if you just look at the cover, you can assess the book, despite the adage that you shouldn't. 

We get to see her benefactor again, and it reminds me of the Breakers from the Tower series, Hearts of Atlantis, and a little bit of Carrie, Firestarter, and the new Institute. However, this does not imply that this book is identical to the novels I just listed.

Gwendy's Button Box is my current favorite of the two books. The storyline in Gwendy's Magic Feather didn't feel as tight to me. 

There are various parts that are superfluous. I enjoy the detailed narrative, but it tends to dominate the real tale in some areas, especially near the beginning and finish. It needed to move in these spots, but it didn't. 

I also believe that the moments between Farris and the enigmatic killer were not as strong as I would have wanted. More depth and emphasis would have made this a clear favorite.

A wonderful story that not only transports us to Castle Rock, Stephen King's favorite place but also introduces us to a new and talented tour guide, Richard Chizmar. 

We finally get to see an elderly Gwendy and her notorious Button Box. A readily accessible story with a family emphasis and drama, as well as visits to old familiar acquaintances in a place we've been to many times before. 

Chizmar grabs your hand and guides you to a comfortable worn chair in a warm chamber, where he weaves his yarn full of details and sensations we can all connect to.

The family tragedies and hardships are so vividly shown that you find yourself agreeing with family issues in your own life on a frequent basis. 

Gwendy's Magic Feather, which is easily readable in a single sitting, is a fantastic addition for this newest intriguing character in the Castle Rock universe and just leaves you anxiously anticipating the next installment.


Final Thoughts

This is the second installment in the Gwendy's Button Box Trilogy. The first was co-written by Richard Chizmar and Stephen King and was based on one of King's unfinished works. 

I can't even imagine being permitted to read, let alone complete, a throwaway narrative. But, as far as I know, Chizmar is the first individual outside of King's own self to create a narrative set on Castle Rock entirely on his own. This is a fantastic story, but a quick read.

Overall, I would suggest this book and series. Presently every time someone asks me for a Stephen King novel recommendation that will pique their attention, I offer Gwendy's Button Box. 

Now I'd like to share a second story with you. This narrative isn't too terrifying, resentful of politics, or unduly lengthy or short; it's just perfect, like Goldilocks. 

If you want to read a wonderful novel that isn't too long, isn't entirely based on the supernatural, and has a strong female protagonist, this is the book for you. There is also a third book, which you can learn more about and read a review of by clicking Gwendys Final Task.


Synopsis

“A USA TODAY BESTSELLER

In this thrilling sequel to the New York Times bestselling novella by Stephen King and award-winning author Richard Chizmar, an adult Gwendy is summoned back to Castle Rock after the mysterious reappearance of the button box.

Something evil has swept into the small Maine town of Castle Rock on the heels of the latest winter storm. Sheriff Norris Ridgewick and his team are desperately searching for two missing girls, but time is running out.

In Washington, DC, thirty-seven-year-old Gwendy Peterson couldn’t be more different from the self-conscious teenaged girl who once spent a summer running up Castle Rock’s Suicide Stairs. That same summer, she had been entrusted—or some might say cursed—with the extraordinary button box by Richard Farris, the mysterious stranger in the black suit. The seductive and powerful box offered Gwendy small gifts in exchange for its care and feeding until Farris eventually returned, promising the young girl she’d never see the box again.

One day, though, the button box suddenly reappears but this time, without Richard Farris to explain why, or what she’s supposed to do with it. Between this and the troubling disappearances back in Castle Rock, Gwendy decides to return home. She just might be able to help rescue the missing girls and stop a dangerous madman before he does something ghastly.

With breathtaking and lyrical prose, Gwendy’s Magic Feather explores whether our lives are controlled by fate or the choices we make and what price we sometimes have to pay. Prepare to return again to Stephen King’s Castle Rock, the sleepy little town built on a bedrock of deep, dark secrets, just as it’s about to awaken from its quiet slumber once more.”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Back To Castle, Gwendys Button, Gwendys Magic, Highly Recommend, Looking Forward, Magic Feather, Third Book, Well Written


Rating: 90/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

Under The Dome - Season 1 (2013) (13+)

Dreamcatcher (2003) (R)

Cell (2016) (R)

Bag of Bones Season 1 (2012) (13+)

Dolores Claiborne (1995) (R)

It (1990) (R)

It (2017) (R)

It Chapter Two (2019) (R)

Needful Things (1993) (R)

Desperation (2006) (16+)

Silver Bullet (1985) (R)

The Tommyknockers (1993) (M)

Christine (1983) (R)

The Dead Zone (1983) (R)

Misery (1990) (R)

Carrie (1976) (R)

Firestarter (1984) (R)

Mr. Mercedes Season 01 (2017) (TV-MA)

Thinner (1996) (R)

The Running Man (1987) (R)

The Dark Half (1993) (R)

The Green Mile (1999) (16+)

Salem’s Lot (1979) (G)

Salem’s Lot: The Miniseries (2004) (NR)

The Dark Tower 8 Book Boxed Set (Paperback)

The Dark Tower (2017) (PG-13)

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The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon Review

Stephen King, American, Coming Of Age, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Psychic, Psychological, Survival, Suspense, Thriller

The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon

Published: 6, April 1999
Author: Stephen King
Genre: American, Coming Of Age, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Psychic, Psychological, Survival, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:


The Review

The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon by Stephen King is a psychological horror story. A pop-up book version, designed by Kees Moerbeek and illustrated by Alan Dingman, was released in 2004. A film adaptation, to be produced by Chris Romero, was announced in 2019. As of today, the day of writing the review (24, March 2022,) there has been no fresh news on the movie adaptation, but I will include it as soon as I discover it.

If you're a hiker or simply enjoy visiting parks and enjoying nature, you've certainly pondered at some time what it's like to be lost in the woods if you haven't already. 

In any case, reading this novel will make you feel as if you've been lost in the woods with Trisha McFarland.

Stephen King's ability to offer a highly thorough depiction of what his characters see and feel is my favorite aspect of his writing. 

I've read this book two times over the years because it's easy to become lost with Trisha as she makes decision after decision that leads her further and farther into solitary, wildland. 

It's also motivating since she's quite resourceful in her frantic attempt to survive. The love of her family and a baseball team contributes to her mental power, therefore the title connection. 

This narrative makes you consider what you would do if you suddenly lost access to all you know and love. Who is the first person you think of when you think about missing someone? What else do you believe you can't live without? 

You want to cheer for Trisha to get back to her life, which, while imperfect like everyone else's, is clearly important to her. 

The novel also begins to veer into the mysterious, as if you were staring into a funhouse mirror, and you wonder, along with the main character, if things are indeed what they appear to be or something altogether else, out of this world. 

I like how there isn't a lot of gore in it, which allows Stephen King's skill at producing rich descriptive descriptions to stand on its own without much of a shock effect. 

We all know and admire Stephen King for his terrifying stories, but I think it's also vital to appreciate his descriptions of atmosphere and mood on their own. 

He makes literature more alive and tangible. That is what keeps me coming back to some of his works again and again. This would be a great book to read on a hiking trip or in forests! 

Other works by the author with comparable characteristics highlighted in this review include The Long Walk, From a Buick 8, and Rose Madder.

People read in a variety of ways; for example, some prefer small anthology books, while others prefer to devour novels completely. Some readers, however, like to read in a certain genre, such as horror, romance, or anything else.

I enjoy reading. One of the wonderful pastimes that I never get tired of is sitting down or in bed and going for a really nice book, and I read practically any genre that I can find. To get away from places you can only see yourself in and attempt to be in. To genuinely dwell in the scene evoked by the author's words.

When I read Bag of Bones, the narrative grabbed me by the neck and held me utterly riveted throughout. The entire thing. I stood there, wondering how a man like King could have written such a masterpiece. 

He was cast as a traditional horror writer, yet Bag of Bones had something that no other authors could replicate or draw from. 

That work was so unlike all of his prior work that one could have been tempted to believe that the author was not King himself. I knew he could write something beautiful and unique again, but I didn't know when he would until I read this book and was blown away.

The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon is a short book by any measure, and it may even be a little short for some non-readers as well. A quick reader may finish it in one sitting, while an ordinary reader could keep it for around a week or if you read like me and that means reading around ten books at a time. 

The novel continues in the footsteps of Bag of Bones, with King depending on his literary talent rather than his ability to frighten powers. 

But it doesn't mean he doesn't have it in him. Oh my goodness! He simply has it more under control, and it's truly in there. 

The concept of a girl being lost in the woods for who knows how long alone, and the reader feeling what she has to go through, is an accomplishment in and of itself. 

The idea of a nine-year-old child being alone and terrified is simply too much to comprehend. Only King could have undertaken such a task, and he excels at it. 

King's descriptive powers are so good that you'll feel like you're right there with Trisha, everywhere she goes, experiencing whatever she feels, and seeing what she sees. Her nightmares become reality, and even her delirious hallucinations make your skin crawl. 

This book is a treasure, and while I won't go into detail about what I believe King was going for in the plot, I can assure you that you will be moved by it. By the tenacity of that courageous 9-year-old kid who appears to be older than her years. 

Furthermore, I believe that every parent should let their children read this book, or at the very least read it to them with a few portions omitted for obvious reasons, so that the children can do a lot to keep themselves safe in scenarios similar to those represented in this book.


Final Thoughts

I can confidently state that this is my favorite Stephen King novel about survival, and it can benefit not just a child, but everyone who reads it and understands the power of believing, and I would wholeheartedly suggest it to be enjoyed again and again. 

I'm going out on a limb here, no pun intended, but let's face it, sometimes we read to get lost and get away from the typical stresses of life; well, this book will let you get lost for a little while. so just Enjoy!


Synopsis

“From international bestseller Stephen King, a classic story that engages our emotions on the most primal level, a fairy tale grimmer than Grimm but aglow with a girl’s indomitable spirit.

What if the woods were full of them? And of course they were, the woods were full of everything you didn’t like, everything you were afraid of and instinctively loathed, everything that tried to overwhelm you with nasty, no-brain panic.

The brochure promised a “moderate-to-difficult” six-mile hike on the Maine-New Hampshire branch of the Appalachian Trail, where nine-year-old Trisha McFarland was to spend Saturday with her older brother Pete and her recently divorced mother. When she wanders off to escape their constant bickering, then tries to catch up by attempting a shortcut through the woods, Trisha strays deeper into a wilderness full of peril and terror. Especially when night falls.

Trisha has only her wits for navigation, only her ingenuity as a defense against the elements, only her courage and faith to withstand her mounting fear. For solace she tunes her Walkman to broadcasts of Boston Red Sox games and the gritty performances of her hero, number thirty-six, relief pitcher Tom Gordon. And when her radio’s reception begins to fade, Trisha imagines that Tom Gordon is with her—her key to surviving an enemy known only by the slaughtered animals and mangled trees in its wake.”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Boston Red, Find Her Way, Gets Lost, Little Girl, Lost In The Woods, Main Character, Mother And Brother, Nine Year Old Girl, Red Sox, Tom Gordon, Trisha McFarland


Rating: 95/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

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It Chapter Two (2019) (R)

Needful Things (1993) (R)

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The Tommyknockers (1993) (M)

Christine (1983) (R)

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Carrie (1976) (R)

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The Running Man (1987) (R)

The Dark Half (1993) (R)

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Salem’s Lot: The Miniseries (2004) (NR)

The Dark Tower 8 Book Boxed Set (Paperback)

The Dark Tower (2017) (PG-13)

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It Review

Stephen King, American, Coming Of Age, Drama, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Media Tie-In, Shape Shifter, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller, Werewolf

It

Published: 15, September 1986
Author: Stephen King
Genre: American, Coming Of Age, Drama, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Media Tie-In, Shape Shifter, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller, Werewolf

Check the summary of this book here:


The Review

Stephen King's "It" is a terrifying horror tale. It was his 22nd novel and 17th written under his own name. The narrative follows the exploits of seven children as they are frightened by an evil creature that uses its victims' anxieties to conceal itself as it hunts its prey. To entice its favorite prey of young children, "It" takes the shape of Pennywise the Dancing Clown.

These lines are actually written at the end of the review, but I'm including them here because I just want to say that I wrote a lot of stuff, but I still feel like I need to add more, but it won't be enough, and another reason is simple: I'm afraid to reveal anything that might spoil the book for new readers, and even if you've seen the movies, remember that you only saw a fraction of the actual masterpiece. So I'm telling you right now that the book is incredible in every way and that I wholeheartedly recommend it.

For a long time, I wanted to write "It" review, but something always stopped me, and I stopped after a few lines until now, either because of my hatred for this character or the nostalgia this book and the kids in it bring me. 

But, at long last, I'm writing it, and I'm not sure if it's about how Stephen King wrote it; it's turning out exactly like I anticipated it would, and it's all about nostalgic memories.

The novel is told mostly in third-person omniscient form, with storylines rotating between two times. It explores themes that would later become King's mainstays, including the power of memory, childhood trauma and its repeating echoes in adulthood, the malevolence lying under the bucolic façade of the American small town, and the triumph of good over evil through mutual trust and sacrifice.

According to King, he originally had the idea for the narrative in 1978 and began writing it in 1981. In 1985, he finished writing the book. 

He also said that the title character was initially intended to be a troll, similar to the one in the children's fable "Three Billy Goats Gruff," but one who lived in the local sewage system rather than simply the region beneath one bridge. 

He also intended the plot to tie together the tales of youngsters and the people they grow up to be.

In 1987, the novel won the British Fantasy Award, and it was also nominated for the Locus and World Fantasy Awards. 

It was named the best-selling hardcover fiction book in the United States by Publishers Weekly in 1986. 

It was turned into a two-part miniseries directed by Tommy Lee Wallace in 1990, as well as a film duology directed by Andy Muschietti, with It Chapter One premiering in September 2017 and It Chapter Two in September 2019.

The first moment in the movie "It 1990" that has resonated with me is when a little boy is attempting to get his ship in the rain and is killed by the monster. 

I used to despise "It" so much that I became incredibly protective of my younger brother, beating the heck out of anyone who even touched him or even thought about threatening him. 

Basically, Stephen King wrote this devil so well that I will never forget him and others who were beaten by me will never forget me too, thanks to Stephen King's writing. 

The gore and scare tactics in the movie were toned down from the novel, but I was still sad and angry at the same time, and I couldn't get over the kid's death.

I started with the movie and then moved on to the heavy-duty book. It may be a marathon for many readers to finish this book, but it was only a few hundred pages above thousand for me, and I loved it, not "It." 

So, yes, I must warn casual readers that reading and actually finishing this book is a huge commitment to oneself, but I am confident that if you can finish it, it will stay in your mind for a long time.

When I read this book as a kid or a youngster of the same age as the losers' club, I could identify with the kids but not with the older version of them, but when I read it as an adult, I could connect with both age groups, and I must warn adult readers who are going to read it for the first or second time, be prepared for the nostalgia and flood of memories of those young times and friends and family. 

These feelings can be really powerful, and I believe Stephen King understood exactly what he was doing when he wrote the book and detailed descriptions of those children's lives and activities. 

I have a suggestion for you on this topic: whenever you feel nostalgic, phone your old school buddies because if you never left on a poor note, you can still be friends and chat to family members who you know are good; believe me, you and these people will like it.

This book is just stunning. This novel provided me with more than simply entertainment. It gave me hope and encouraged me to be more hopeful about my life. 

Of course, the "horror" sequences are actually revolting and horrifying, and they might cause nightmares. 

The major topic of the book, however, is about the specific talents and capabilities that children have that adults do not, and how we need to repair or seal the split that divides the kid (whom every one of us once was) from the adult (that we have become). 

To defeat "It," the grownups must recollect their childhoods in order to "glue the present to the past" and rediscover who they once were. 

It is about memory and transformation, and what makes each of us a "person" despite our constant transformations... for each human who grows to adulthood is a shape-shifter, just as "It" is a shape-shifter, and part of our power comes from this, but also from our twin abilities to remember and to forget and obliterate who we once were.

There is a section where something happens that can divide the readers, and new readers will understand what I mean when they read it because some will be disgusted and may think that Stephen King needs to go and get himself mentally evaluated, but for me and many others, it was a very clever metaphor he added for the next stage of life and no coming back plus unity and the doors that only open and have passage to one way.

I attempted to hide a lot of information in the previous few lines and used very few words to explain that portion, so just come back and read the lines after you read that point of the book and you'll understand what I stated in a few words as a riddle or jumbled words.

Final Thoughts

The writing is brilliant because Stephen King utilizes meanings themselves to create tales, braided almost smoothly into shades of context and colors of insinuation and occasionally vivid, clear splashes of emotion that startle you. 

After all, that's how it works in real life. And in doing so, King manages to normalize seemingly improbable features such as "It's" supernatural nature and the link "It" has with the town of Derry and its citizens. 

This may have occurred. It's entirely possible. And it's that esoteric horror that King skillfully wields. The ramifications and the options are endless.

This novel would not be the same without the Derry Interludes at the conclusion of each section. 

In my perspective, the interludes are what made the novel so horrifying. They recount all of the historical tragedies that have occurred in Derry and have mostly gone unnoticed and forgotten. 

This is where you can truly witness the actual wicked nature that It puts upon this community. I could read a whole novel based only on the history of Derry, Maine. It's both fascinating and terrifying.

It's true that Stephen King can ramble on and on when he gets going, and some readers enjoy it, but I know some don't so be advised that this book has some of those portions.

A couple of things will happen if this is your first time reading a Stephen King book. Specifically... 

The term "journey" best characterizes this work. You have no clue what you're getting yourself into if you buy this novel because of a homicidal clown.

This novel will terrify you, and you will be astounded by author's attention to detail in character interactions.

This is a fantastic book that everyone should read at least once in their lives.


Synopsis

“Stephen King’s terrifying, classic #1 New York Times bestseller, “a landmark in American literature” (Chicago Sun-Times)—about seven adults who return to their hometown to confront a nightmare they had first stumbled on as teenagers…an evil without a name: It.

Welcome to Derry, Maine. It’s a small city, a place as hauntingly familiar as your own hometown. Only in Derry the haunting is real.

They were seven teenagers when they first stumbled upon the horror. Now they are grown-up men and women who have gone out into the big world to gain success and happiness. But the promise they made twenty-eight years ago calls them reunite in the same place where, as teenagers, they battled an evil creature that preyed on the city’s children. Now, children are being murdered again and their repressed memories of that terrifying summer return as they prepare to once again battle the monster lurking in Derry’s sewers.

Readers of Stephen King know that Derry, Maine, is a place with a deep, dark hold on the author. It reappears in many of his books, including Bag of Bones, Hearts in Atlantis, and 11/22/63. But it all starts with It.

“Stephen King’s most mature work” (St. Petersburg Times), “It will overwhelm you…to be read in a well-lit room only” (Los Angeles Times).”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Andy Bean, Andy Muschietti, Annette O'Toole, Back And Forth, Barbara Muschietti, Bill Hader, Bill Skarsgård, Chosen Jacobs, Dan Lin, Dark Tower, David Katzenberg, Dennis Christopher, Derry Maine, Finn Wolfhard, Harry Anderson, Highly Recommend, Isaiah Mustafa, Jack Dylan Grazer, Jackson Robert Scott, Jaeden Lieberher, James Mcavoy, James Ransone, Javier Botet, Jay Ryan, Jeremy Ray Taylor, Jess Weixler, Jessica Chastain, John Ritter, King At His Best, Losers Club, New Movie, Nicholas Hamilton, Olivia Hussey, Owen Teague, Richard Masur, Richard Thomas, Roy Lee, Seth Grahame-Smith, Sophia Lillis, Stephen Bogaert, Teach Grant, Tim Curry, Tim Reid, Tommy Lee Wallace, Town Of Derry, Warner Bros, Wyatt Oleff


Rating: 100/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

It (1990) (R)

It (2017) (R)

It Chapter Two (2019) (R)

Needful Things (1993) (R)

Desperation (2006) (16+)

Silver Bullet (1985) (R)

The Tommyknockers (1993) (M)

Christine (1983) (R)

The Dead Zone (1983) (R)

Misery (1990) (R)

Carrie (1976) (R)

Firestarter (1984) (R)

Mr. Mercedes Season 01 (2017) (TV-MA)

Thinner (1996) (R)

The Running Man (1987) (R)

The Dark Half (1993) (R)

The Green Mile (1999) (16+)

Salem’s Lot (1979) (G)

Salem’s Lot: The Miniseries (2004) (NR)

The Dark Tower 8 Book Boxed Set (Paperback)

The Dark Tower (2017) (PG-13)

Compare Kindle E-readers on one page

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Any kind of support, even a simple 'like, thumbs up or a small comment' is enough and helps me grow, create and freely do more stuff and work on projects for the benefit of many.
Help me grow into a global force: https://www.patreon.com/namsu
Support with crypto coins/tokens: https://cointr.ee/namsu
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