5 Early Stephen King Books to Read Now

In literature, few names resonate as powerfully as that of Stephen King. Often dubbed the Master of Horror, King’s contributions to the literary world are vast and varied. With a career that’s spanned decades, he’s consistently enthralled readers with tales that are not only spine-chilling but also deeply rooted in the human experience.

His stories, while terrifying, often delve into the complexities of human nature, making them relatable and all the more haunting.

From the quiet streets of fictional towns in Maine to the vast expanse of post-apocalyptic landscapes, King’s narratives transport readers to worlds where the line between reality and the supernatural is blurred. His ability to intertwine the ordinary with the extraordinary has made his works stand out, turning them into timeless classics.

King’s books have found their way into the hands of millions, with over 400 million copies sold worldwide. Such staggering numbers are a testament to his storytelling prowess and the universal appeal of his tales.

For those looking to embark on a journey through King’s early literary landscape, there are numerous novels to choose from. However, five early works particularly stand out, each groundbreaking in its own right. While diverse in their themes and settings, these novels bear the unmistakable mark of King’s genius. They serve as a perfect introduction to his style, offering readers a glimpse into the mind of a master storyteller.

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Salem’s Lot (1975)

While Bram Stoker’s Dracula laid the foundational stones for vampire fiction, Stephen King’s Salem’s Lot elevated the genre to unprecedented heights. Published in 1975, this novel isn’t just a mere retelling of the vampire mythos but a reinvention, blending traditional horror elements with King’s unique narrative style.

Set against the backdrop of the quaint yet eerily atmospheric town of Salem’s Lot in New England, the novel weaves a tale that is both a ghost story and a chilling account of monsters lurking in the shadows. As is common in King’s work, the town becomes a character, with its history and secrets playing a pivotal role in the unfolding horror. The setting is quintessentially King — a seemingly ordinary place where dark forces are at play, just beneath the surface.

King’s unparalleled skill in character development and world-building sets Salem’s Lot apart from other vampire tales. His characters aren’t mere archetypes but fleshed-out individuals with hopes, fears, and flaws. As readers dive deeper into the narrative, they find themselves ensnared in the web of King’s storytelling. The line between fiction and reality blurs, making the terror all the more palpable. This immersion leaves readers feeling vulnerable, knowing they are entirely at the mercy of King’s narrative twists and turns.

The impact of Salem’s Lot on the horror genre can’t be overstated. It’s haunting, gripping, and undeniably terrifying. The novel is a testament to King’s prowess as a master of horror, proving that even familiar tales can be reimagined in ways that leave readers sleepless for nights.

For those who have developed a taste for contemporary vampire tales with a fresh perspective, Storberry is worth a recommendation. While it pays homage to classics like Salem’s Lot, it offers a modern spin on vampire lore, ensuring that the legacy of vampire fiction continues to evolve and captivate new generations of readers.

Related Reading: The History of Vampire Horror Novels

The Shining (1977)

Stephen King’s The Shining, published in 1977, is a masterclass in horror literature. While many are familiar with Stanley Kubrick’s iconic film adaptation, it is essential to recognize that the novel offers a more intricate exploration of its compelling characters, especially the protagonist, Jack Torrance.

At its core, the story is about the Torrance family’s descent into madness, exacerbated by the malevolent forces at the Overlook Hotel. However, King’s portrayal of Jack Torrance isn’t just about a man succumbing to supernatural influences. It’s a profound exploration of a man grappling with his inner demons, including alcoholism (a familiar topic to Stephen King), anger, and the weight of past mistakes. The haunted hotel merely serves as a catalyst, amplifying the internal struggles that Jack is already facing.

While a cinematic masterpiece in its own right, Kubrick’s film focuses more on the overt horror elements, creating a sense of external dread. In contrast, King’s novel delves deeper into the psychological aspects, painting a portrait of a man torn apart by external and internal forces. This introspective approach makes the novel’s horror more intimate and, in many ways, more terrifying.

The Shining isn’t just a tale of ghosts and haunted hallways. It’s a story about family dynamics, the fragility of the human mind, and the thin line that separates sanity from madness. Wendy and Danny, Jack’s wife and son, respectively, are also given more depth in the novel, with their perspectives and fears adding layers to the narrative.

The Shining is a testament to King’s ability to intertwine the supernatural with the deeply human. It’s a novel that doesn’t just scare you with ghosts and eerie occurrences. It unsettles you with its raw portrayal of human vulnerability. The Overlook Hotel, with its echoing corridors and lingering spirits, might be the setting, but the real horror lies in the unraveling of Jack Torrance’s mind. And that haunting lingers long after the final page is turned.
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It (1986)

Clowns are creepy. But how about clowns that live in the sewer and lure children to violent deaths?

Stephen King’s It, published in 1986, is more than just a horror novel about a malevolent entity taking the form of a clown. It’s a sprawling epic that delves into the complexities of childhood, the power of memory, and the enduring bonds of friendship.

The very premise of a clown lurking in the sewers of the fictional town of Derry, Maine, preying on children, taps into a primal fear many harbor. Clowns, often associated with joy and laughter, are turned on their heads in King’s tale, becoming the embodiment of pure terror. This inversion of a seemingly innocent figure into a monstrous entity is a testament to King’s ability to subvert expectations and craft horror from the mundane.

However, what truly sets It apart is King’s portrayal of the town of Derry and its inhabitants. The town itself becomes a living, breathing character, with its dark history and secrets playing a pivotal role in the story. Through meticulous detail, King creates a sense of place that’s palpable, drawing readers into the world of Derry and making them feel as though they are walking its streets alongside the characters.

The narrative structure, which oscillates between the past and the present, offers a rich exploration of the characters’ childhoods. These flashbacks are reminiscent of King’s other coming-of-age tales, notably The Body, which was later adapted into the film Stand By Me. Through these memories, King delves into themes of innocence lost, the trials of adolescence, and the unbreakable bonds formed during those formative years. The Losers’ Club, the group of children at the heart of the story, are fleshed out with such depth and nuance that readers can’t help but become deeply invested in their fates.

The novel’s conclusion, while divisive among readers, is a bold choice by King. Without giving away any spoilers, the ending delves into abstract, metaphysical, and, finally, sexual territories, challenging readers to think beyond the conventional boundaries of horror. This departure from the expected might be jarring for some, but it offers a satisfying and thought-provoking conclusion to a complex tale for others.

It is a masterwork that showcases King’s unparalleled ability to blend horror with deep character study and societal commentary. It’s a novel that lingers, haunting readers with its exploration of fear, memory, and the enduring scars of childhood.
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Different Seasons (1982)

I cheated a little bit here. Different Seasons isn’t actually a novel but a collection of four novellas, all engrossing in their own way.

Different Seasons is a testament to Stephen King’s range and prowess as a storyteller. While King is often synonymous with horror, this collection of four novellas showcases his ability to traverse various genres, from coming-of-age tales and startling mystery stories to psychological thrillers, all while maintaining his signature touch.

The collection kicks off with The Body, which many readers might recognize from its film adaptation, Stand By Me. This novella is a poignant exploration of childhood, friendship, and the loss of innocence. Set against the backdrop of a small town, it follows a group of boys on a quest to find a missing child’s body. Along the way, they confront their own fears, insecurities, and the harsh realities of growing up. The story’s transition to the silver screen as Stand By Me further cemented its place in popular culture, capturing the hearts of audiences with its raw emotion and nostalgia.

Apt Pupil takes a darker turn, delving into the twisted relationship between a young boy and a former Nazi war criminal. The story is a chilling examination of obsession, the allure of evil, and the depths to which one can descend when influenced by malevolent forces. It’s a tale that lingers, unsettling readers with its exploration of the dark corners of the human psyche.

Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption is another standout, offering a gripping narrative set within the confines of Shawshank Prison. While it touches on themes of injustice and the corrupt penal system, at its heart, it’s a story of hope, redemption, and the indomitable human spirit. The novella’s adaptation into the critically acclaimed film The Shawshank Redemption introduced it to a broader audience, further highlighting King’s impact on literature and cinema.

Lastly, The Breathing Method is a haunting yet small tale combining elements of horror and drama. It’s a story within a story centered around a peculiar gentlemen’s club where members share tales. The titular story, told one winter evening, is heart-wrenching and eerie, showcasing King’s ability to blend emotion with the supernatural.

Different Seasons is a masterful collection that highlights the breadth of King’s storytelling abilities. Each novella, distinct in its narrative and themes, offers readers a glimpse into the diverse worlds King can create. Whether you’re a seasoned King aficionado or a newcomer, this collection promises a literary journey that spans the gamut of human emotions and experiences.

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Christine (1983)

Only Stephen King can make you believe that a Plymouth Fury stalks the streets, avenging her owner.

In Christine, published in 1983, Stephen King masterfully blends the nostalgia of 1950s Americana with the supernatural — crafting a tale that is as much about the pains of adolescence as it is about a malevolent car. King’s genius lies in his ability to infuse the ordinary with the extraordinary, and Christine is a prime example of this talent.

At the story’s heart is Arnie, a quintessential teenager grappling with the challenges of growing up. Bullied at school and smothered by an overprotective mother at home, Arnie’s life takes a turn when he stumbles upon a dilapidated 1958 Plymouth Fury named Christine. To him, the car represents freedom, autonomy, and a chance to reinvent himself. However, as Arnie’s obsession with Christine grows, so does the car’s malevolent influence over him.

King paints a vivid picture of teenage life, capturing the essence of high school dynamics, friendships, and first loves. Through the character of Dennis, Arnie’s loyal friend, we witness the transformation of Arnie from a meek boy to someone almost unrecognizable, consumed by his obsession. Dennis’s growing concern and skepticism about Christine add a layer of tension to the narrative, making readers question the car’s true nature.

The backdrop of the 1950s, with its rock ‘n’ roll, diners, and cruising culture, adds a layer of nostalgia to the story. King transports readers to a bygone era, where Eddie Cochran’s tunes blare from the radio, and teenagers flaunt their muscle cars. This setting serves as a stark contrast to the dark and supernatural elements of the story, creating a juxtaposition that only King can pull off.

While the premise of a vengeful car might seem outlandish, King grounds Christine in the universal emotions of teenage angst, jealousy, and the desperate need for acceptance. This emotional core makes the story resonate with readers, regardless of age. Christine isn’t just a tale of a haunted car; it reflects the tumultuous journey of adolescence and the lengths one might go to find a sense of belonging.

Christine showcases Stephen King’s unparalleled ability to weave together the supernatural with deeply human themes. It’s a ride through the trials of youth, set against the backdrop of a menacing Plymouth Fury, making it a must-read for horror aficionados and those seeking a trip down memory lane.

Related Reading: The Ten Scariest Horror Novels I’ve Read.

Start Exploring the Books of Young Stephen King

The above list serves as an excellent starting point for those embarking on the thrilling journey of exploring Stephen King’s vast literary universe. It captures the essence of King’s early genius, offering readers a glimpse into the worlds he masterfully crafted in the initial stages of his illustrious career.

It’s worth noting that King’s bibliography is so rich and diverse that making a concise list is no easy feat. While The Stand and Pet Sematary are undeniably iconic and deserve their rightful place among King’s best works, their omission here is purely for the sake of brevity. After all, if we were to compile a comprehensive list of King’s masterpieces, it would easily surpass fifty titles, each unique and captivating in its own right.

So, as you delve into the dark, mysterious, and often poignant realms King has created, which of his early works resonate most with you? We’d love to hear your thoughts and favorites.

Related Reading: Five Authors Like Stephen King You Need to Read

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Stephen King: FAQs on the Master of Horror

1. What was Stephen King’s first book?

Stephen King’s first published novel is Carrie, released in 1974. The story revolves around a teenage girl named Carrie White, who possesses telekinetic powers. After being bullied and ostracized by her peers, a traumatic event at her school triggers a series of catastrophic events. The novel was groundbreaking and set the stage for King’s illustrious career in the horror genre.

2. In what order should you read Stephen King’s books?

While you can read many of Stephen King’s books as standalone novels, some are interconnected and share characters, settings, or themes. For newcomers, starting with his standalone novels like Carrie or The Shining might be beneficial. However, starting with the Dark Tower series can provide a comprehensive experience for those interested in the larger King universe. King has also written several books set in the fictional town of Castle Rock, and reading these in the order of publication can offer a richer understanding of the setting and its inhabitants.

3. How old was Stephen King when he published his first book?

Stephen King was 26 years old when Carrie, his first novel, was published in 1974. The success of this novel marked the beginning of a prolific writing career that has spanned decades and solidified King’s reputation as one of the greatest horror writers of all time.

4. How was Stephen King inspired to write Carrie?

Stephen King drew inspiration for Carrie from two primary sources. First, he recalled an article about telekinesis and how young girls, particularly during puberty, might possess such powers. Secondly, King combined this idea with memories of two girls he knew in high school who were bullied and ostracized by their peers. These real-life experiences, combined with his imaginative flair, gave birth to the character of Carrie White and the tragic events that unfold in the novel.

5. What is the first story Stephen King sold?

Stephen King’s first sold story was The Glass Floor, which he sold to Startling Mystery Stories magazine in 1967. This marked one of King’s earliest forays into professional writing, and while it might not be as well-known as some of his later works, it was a significant milestone in his journey as a writer.

6. What is Stephen King’s second book?

After the success of Carrie, Stephen King’s second published novel was Salem’s Lot, released in 1975. The story is a modern take on the classic vampire tale, set in the fictional town of Jerusalem’s Lot, Maine. The novel delves into the dark secrets of the town and its inhabitants as they confront a growing vampire menace. Like Carrie, Salem’s Lot further established King’s reputation in the horror genre and showcased his ability to reinvent classic horror tropes.