The best 12 King books

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1
King Books: Roadwork by Stephen King

Roadwork

Stephen King

What's Roadwork about?

Roadwork is a novel by Stephen King that tells the story of a man named Barton Dawes who becomes obsessed with stopping the construction of a new highway that will destroy his neighborhood. As he spirals into madness, the book explores themes of loss, grief, and the destructive power of obsession.

Who should read Roadwork?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers and intense character studies

  • Those interested in exploring themes of loss, grief, and the human psyche

  • Individuals who appreciate Stephen King's ability to create a sense of unease and tension in everyday situations


2
King Books: Apt Pupil by Stephen King

Apt Pupil

Stephen King

What's Apt Pupil about?

Apt Pupil is a psychological thriller by Stephen King that delves into the dark and twisted relationship between a high school student and an elderly Nazi war criminal. As the student becomes increasingly fascinated by the old man's stories, their bond takes a sinister turn, leading to a chilling and suspenseful tale of manipulation and evil.

Who should read Apt Pupil?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers
  • Stephen King fans looking for a compelling and intense story
  • Those interested in exploring the dark and complex nature of human behavior

3
King Books: Danse Macabre by Stephen King

Danse Macabre

Stephen King

What's Danse Macabre about?

Danse Macabre is a non-fiction book by Stephen King that delves into the world of horror in literature, film, and television. King explores the reasons behind our fascination with the macabre and discusses various themes and tropes within the genre. Drawing from his own experiences and extensive knowledge, he offers a unique and insightful analysis of what makes horror stories so compelling.

Who should read Danse Macabre?

  • Horror enthusiasts who want to understand the mechanics of fear
  • Readers interested in the history and evolution of the horror genre
  • Stephen King fans looking for insights into the author's inspirations and creative process

4
King Books: Elevation by Stephen King

Elevation

Stephen King

What's Elevation about?

Elevation by Stephen King is a thought-provoking novel that explores themes of acceptance, empathy, and the power of community. Set in the small town of Castle Rock, it tells the story of Scott Carey, a man who begins to inexplicably lose weight without losing any mass. As Scott grapples with his own personal challenges, he also seeks to bring about positive change in the lives of those around him. This compelling and uplifting book will leave you reflecting on the importance of understanding and connection.

Who should read Elevation?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and character-driven stories
  • Fans of Stephen King's writing style and ability to blend realism with supernatural elements
  • Individuals who appreciate exploring themes of empathy, tolerance, and social issues

5
King Books: From a Buick 8 by Stephen King

From a Buick 8

Stephen King

What's From a Buick 8 about?

From a Buick 8 is a gripping novel by Stephen King that delves into the mysterious and supernatural. When a strange car is abandoned at a gas station, it becomes the focus of a small-town police department. As they unravel the car's secrets, they uncover a portal to another world and must confront the terrifying consequences of its existence.

Who should read From a Buick 8?

  • Readers who enjoy supernatural mysteries and suspense
  • Fans of Stephen King's unique storytelling and vivid character development
  • Anyone intrigued by the concept of a mysterious and otherworldly car with sinister powers

6
King Books: Just After Sunset by Stephen King

Just After Sunset

Stephen King

What's Just After Sunset about?

Just After Sunset (2008) is a collection of thrilling and thought-provoking short stories by the master of horror, Stephen King. From a woman who discovers an otherworldly secret in her husband's fishing shack to a group of strangers trapped in a grocery store by an eerie mist, each tale will keep you on the edge of your seat. With King's signature blend of suspense and supernatural elements, this book is a must-read for any fan of the genre.

Who should read Just After Sunset?

  • Stephen King fans who enjoy his short stories and diverse writing style
  • Readers who appreciate a mix of horror, suspense, and psychological twists
  • Those looking for thought-provoking narratives that delve into the human psyche

What's Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption about?

Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption is a gripping novella by Stephen King that tells the story of Andy Dufresne, a banker who is wrongly convicted of murder and sentenced to life in Shawshank prison. Through perseverance, friendship, and a clever escape plan, Andy ultimately finds redemption. This compelling tale explores themes of hope, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Who should read Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and emotionally impactful stories
  • Those interested in exploring the human capacity for resilience and hope in the face of adversity
  • People who appreciate well-crafted and nuanced characters

8
King Books: Sleeping Beauties by Stephen King, Owen King

Sleeping Beauties

Stephen King, Owen King

What's Sleeping Beauties about?

Sleeping Beauties is a gripping novel by Stephen King and Owen King that explores a mysterious phenomenon where women around the world fall into a deep sleep and become shrouded in cocoons. As the men left behind in the small town of Dooling struggle to maintain order, they discover that the women are connected in a strange and dangerous way. This dark and thought-provoking book delves into themes of gender, power, and the consequences of a world without women.

Who should read Sleeping Beauties?

  • Readers who enjoy dystopian and speculative fiction
  • Fans of Stephen King's captivating storytelling and intricate character development
  • Those interested in exploring gender dynamics and societal issues through a thought-provoking narrative

What's Stephen King Goes to the Movies about?

Stephen King Goes to the Movies is a collection of short stories by the renowned author Stephen King, each of which has been adapted into a film. From the chilling tale of a haunted hotel room in “1408” to the gripping story of a man wrongfully imprisoned in “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption,” this book offers a unique glimpse into the creative process behind some of Hollywood’s most beloved movies.

Who should read Stephen King Goes to the Movies?

  • Stephen King fans who want to delve into the stories behind their favorite movies
  • Readers who enjoy a mix of horror and psychological suspense
  • Movie buffs interested in the process of adapting literature into film

10
King Books: The Colorado Kid by Stephen King

The Colorado Kid

Stephen King

What's The Colorado Kid about?

The Colorado Kid is a mystery novel by Stephen King that delves into the unsolved case of a man found dead on a beach in Maine. Through the storytelling of two newspaper employees, the book explores the complexities of the case and the various theories surrounding it. With King's signature style, the novel keeps readers guessing until the very end.

Who should read The Colorado Kid?

  • Readers who enjoy mystery novels with a unique storytelling style
  • Those interested in unsolved mysteries and the complexities of human nature
  • People who appreciate thought-provoking narratives that challenge conventional storytelling

11
King Books: The Eyes of the Dragon by Stephen King

What's The Eyes of the Dragon about?

The Eyes of the Dragon is a fantasy novel by Stephen King that tells the story of a kingdom called Delain and the power struggle within the royal family. When the king is murdered, his youngest son is wrongfully imprisoned, and his eldest son takes the throne. With the help of a few loyal allies, the imprisoned prince must find a way to reclaim his rightful place and save the kingdom from tyranny.

Who should read The Eyes of the Dragon?

  • Readers who enjoy fantasy stories with intricate plots and rich world-building
  • Those who appreciate well-developed characters and the exploration of moral dilemmas
  • Fans of Stephen King's writing style and storytelling prowess

12
King Books: The Sun Dog by Stephen King

The Sun Dog

Stephen King

What's The Sun Dog about?

The Sun Dog is a chilling horror novel by Stephen King that tells the story of a young boy who receives a Polaroid camera for his birthday. However, the pictures taken with this camera reveal a sinister presence – a sun dog that seems to be getting closer and closer. As the boy and his family become increasingly terrified, they must uncover the dark secrets behind the camera before it's too late.

Who should read The Sun Dog?

  • Readers who enjoy horror fiction and supernatural thrillers
  • Fans of Stephen King's writing and storytelling style
  • Those interested in exploring the darker side of human nature and the unknown

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 FAQs 

What's the best King book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Roadwork as the ultimate read on King.

What are the Top 10 King books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Roadwork by Stephen King
  • Apt Pupil by Stephen King
  • Danse Macabre by Stephen King
  • Elevation by Stephen King
  • From a Buick 8 by Stephen King
  • Just After Sunset by Stephen King
  • Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption by Stephen King
  • Sleeping Beauties by Stephen King, Owen King
  • Stephen King Goes to the Movies by Stephen King
  • The Colorado Kid by Stephen King

Who are the top King book authors?

When it comes to King, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Stephen King
  • Stephen King
  • Stephen King
  • Stephen King
  • Stephen King